Fort William Golf Club

I guess my impression was somewhere between the two previous entries; The stunning scenery is what really makes this course. There were lots of interesting holes, if no long ones (given that there are 4 par 5’s off the white tees and none off the yellows, I can’t help but think that visitors deserve a chance to have a go at a couple of them, for the £25 green fee). It was an enjoyable round, although the course was absolutely saturated; There had certainly been a lot of rain, but given that it was July, I wondered whether the ground ever dries out. As a first time player at the course, I found the lack of a strokesaver, and only a few 200 yards markers (maybe there were more, but I didn’t see them) instead of the rather more useful 100 or 150 yard markers to be a bit of a handicap, particularly given the number of blind shots (4 or 5 holes had poles to indicate the line required). I hope this doesn’t sound too negative, as it was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon, and I would definitely go back ,despite my observations.

Played here in glorious sunshine in early June 02. Course is extremely tough, not long just very hilly. Lots of up & downs and blind shots. Even though they had had lots of rain leading up to our day (I should know as I was in a tent!) the course appeared to have drained quite well. Many of the holes (especially the 1st) had thick heather between the tee and fairway so any fluffed tee shots and the ball was lost. The par 3 6th hole is the prettiest hole I have seen in golf. Thick heather from tee to green which is gaurded by a fairly deep channel filled with water. The hole is in its own confines with trees all around; there is no views from here of any other part of the course which gives the impression you are in somebody's large backgarden! Very friendly staff who made us welcome - course was quiet, very quiet so we did not feel compelled to rush. Well worth a visit.

Day 4 of Scotland 2002 for the London posse (and the Bristol monkey). Fort William only plays just over 5,400 yards from the yellows, which we thought was strangely short – until we found the course to be by and large absolutely saturated, which brought it up to something like normal length! Apparently, this was due to non-stop rain for the last two months and was a bit of a shame because the setting right at the foot of Ben Nevis is absolutely awesome. The wetness obviously has a detrimental impact on the condition and maintenance of the course – plus there are only three greenkeepers! Don’t expect too much from Fort William but there are some challenging and picturesque holes and although you wouldn’t necessarily journey from afar to play it (we did it en route between Boat of Garten and Machrihanish), it’s worth a crack if you’re in the area. Just remember to bring your wellies! 6/10 Young P