Reay Golf Course
Reay
Located on Scotland’s far north coast near Thurso, Reay Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the best links courses in the Highlands. Set among natural dunes and overlooking the Pentland Firth, it offers a true links experience shaped by wind, terrain and tradition.
The 18-hole course measures just over 6,400 yards and makes full use of its rugged coastal setting. Rolling fairways, natural dunes and firm, fast turf create a layout that encourages creative shot-making, with plenty of opportunities to use the ground game. The ever-present coastal wind adds a constant challenge, meaning no two rounds ever feel the same.
Reay strikes a great balance between challenge and playability. It’s testing enough for experienced golfers, but still enjoyable for a wide range of abilities thanks to its fair design and variety of tee options. The layout flows naturally through the landscape, giving each hole its own identity while maintaining a consistent links feel throughout.
What really sets Reay apart is its authenticity. This is proper, traditional links golf — no gimmicks, no overdevelopment — just a well-designed course in a stunning coastal setting. It’s a favourite among those travelling the North Coast 500 and often considered a hidden gem of the region.
Wick John O’Groats Airport
45km
England’s best golf tour operator 2026 winner
Time Zone:
GMT+7
Currency:
₫ (Vietnamese Dong)
Temperature:
11°C - 29°C
Cost of a Beer:
£0.70
Cost of a 3-Course Meal:
£5.70
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About The Area
Reiss is a small village just outside Wick on Scotland’s far north coast, offering golfers access to one of the most traditional and authentic links experiences in the country. Set along the windswept coastline of Caithness, it’s a destination where golf feels raw, natural and deeply connected to its surroundings.
The standout venue is Reay Golf Club, located a short drive west along the north coast. This classic links course is set right beside the Pentland Firth, featuring firm fairways, natural undulations and fast-running conditions. The layout is shaped heavily by the elements — particularly the wind — which can completely change how the course plays from one day to the next. It’s a true test of links golf, rewarding creativity, control and adaptability rather than power.
Closer to Reiss, golfers can also play Wick Golf Club, another traditional links layout with a slightly more forgiving feel, offering a great contrast within the same area.
Golf in Reiss is best enjoyed between May and September, when daylight hours are long and conditions are more favourable. Summer brings extended evenings, allowing for relaxed rounds in a remote and peaceful setting.
Off the course, the far north of Scotland offers a unique sense of space and isolation. The dramatic coastline, sea cliffs and empty beaches provide incredible scenery, while the area forms part of the North Coast 500 route, making it ideal for a road-trip-style golf itinerary.
For golfers seeking authentic links golf, minimal crowds and a truly remote Highland experience, Reiss delivers one of Scotland’s most raw and memorable golf escapes.
