Newtonmore Golf Club

The course sits right on the edge of Newtonmore, a proper Highland layout that makes the most of the local terrain without pretension. Eighteen holes winding through moorland and trees, with views across to the Monadhliath mountains - it's the sort of place where the scenery does half the work for you. The greens are well-maintained and the rough will punish you if you're not paying attention, which keeps it interesting without being hostile.

This is a members' club primarily, though visitors can usually get on if you ring ahead and have a handicap certificate. Green fees are reasonable for the area, and you're looking at roughly three and a half hours for a round. Spring and early summer are best - the light lasts forever and the course dries out nicely. Winter can be boggy, though that's hardly unique to Newtonmore.

It works well if you're staying at Invernahavon Caravan Park just down the road, or Laggan Glamping a bit further out. Golfers will get a decent game and decent views. Non-golfers in your party might find it a long wait though - there's not much to do while you're hanging about. The town itself has cafes and the odd shop, but it's not Edinburgh. If golf's your reason for being in the Highlands rather than your whole holiday, this fits the bill. If you're hoping the course will be a highlight of your trip, manage expectations.