Before embarking on this trip to Scotland I would often read about the general quirk and variety of its golf courses. I would not be disappointed at Elie. I walked up to the starter’s hut to the right of the first tee, just like many other golf courses. As I walked in, I noticed a chimney stack sticking out of the roof of the small hut. Much to my surprise that “chimney” was actually a periscope! The scope allows the starter to see over the swollen hillside just 50 yards in front of the 1st tee box (I of course stuck my head right in there to inspect if it actually worked). If not quirky, its certainly a unique and interesting way to begin a round of golf.
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| The second hole returns parallel to the 1st on a high plateau affording a view of the town and the golf course awaiting. |
In an ocean side amphitheater most of the golf course is situated between the sea and a large mountain backdrop. Combined with some very good golf holes this setting proved to be exciting and dramatic.
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| Elie has also has several blind drives that require some local knowledge
and more than a little bravery to negotiate, especially if the wind is
up. |
If you are staying in St. Andrews the drive to Elie is a short and scenic 20 minutes (1 hour from the airport in Edinburgh). The small town center is adjacent to the golf club, tennis courts, and soccer pitches. The course is not hard to find as it seemed to be the center of activity in town. Overall Elie is forgiving and fun, making for a wonderful introduction to Scottish links golf.
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