Get to know Ardfin: Top 100 Courses in the World newcomer spotlight

There are no shortage of regulars on GOLF’s Top 100 Courses in the World list — in fact, it’s nearly all regulars. But that’s not to say there’s no churn or fresh faces. This time ’round, seven newcomers made the cut, and in the coming days were going to introduce (or reintroduce!) you to each of them. Here’s a closer look at No. 74 on the 2021-22 ranking: Ardfin on the Isle of Jura in Scotland.

No. 74: Ardfin
Isle of Jura, Scotland
Bob Harrison (2017)

Some of Scotland’s most fabled courses — North Berwick, the Old Course at St. Andrews, Royal Dornoch — are intertwined with their communities. Enjoy a round and then walk a block to prowl around town.

The experience at Ardfin is different. Access to the Isle of Jura comes by boat, either from the adjacent Isle of Islay or from mainland Scotland. On the Ardfin Estate, seclusion and quiet are guaranteed with the stage set for golfers to enjoy time in the wilds of nature.

Manmade hazards are few on Australian architect Bob Harrison’s design, but he puts golfers on notice early, with the tee shot at the 205-yard 2nd needing to carry a 100-foot cliff. 

The thrill ride continues, with holes 8 through 11 hugging the cliff line. Harrison mixes up the asks with a variety of fine green complexes. Most are open in front to accommodate for the wind, some greens fall away from the player, a couple are knobs that are particularly hard to hold and the tiny putting surface at the 9th protects par at the drivable 295-yard par-4.

The accommodations are luxe and for those wishing to unplug, Ardfin is ideal.