The Carnegie Golf Club at Skibo Castle - Carnegie Links Course

Skibo Castle sits in the long shadow of Royal Dornoch, but playing here is every bit as special and in some ways better than its more famous neighbor. Although it is a very exclusive private club, anybody can play Skibo's Carnegie Club if they're willing to fork out the highest green fee in Scotland. The walk is a pleasant one. There's a great mix of beauty and beasts regarding its best holes. The holes along the water are both gorgeous and strategically challenging. The wind usually plays a major factor. The collection of par 3s is one of the best in Scotland. Playing Skibo is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

To be honest, I didn't know much about Skibo Castle before I played there. A couple of my colleagues had teed it up there a number of years ago, but they didn't remember much about it. I was pleasantly surprised after playing a full round there. I thought there were several strong holes -- particularly the par-3 sixth and short par-4 seventh -- and the back nine is brutally difficult in a 25-mph wind. It's a fun course for a team match, and you can't beat the shot of scotch when you walk off the 18th green.

I played here five years ago and forgot how beautiful it is. That day was gray and windy and it was really a survival test. I didn't have time to take it all in.

This time, although windy and a little rainy, it was clear, which gave me a whole new appreciation for how great the course and the views are. The par 3s are terrific and it's a great walk.

The staff is great and the food is some of the best you'll find in the area. When in that area everyone wants to play Royal Dornoch (and rightfully so), but Skibo is only four miles away. Make it a priority.