The golfing experience at Trump International may be your greatest adventure yet
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Trump International Golf Links boasts possibly the best golf course in the world. Amongst the dunes of Aberdeenshire, is the perfect location for the discerning golfer in the home country of the game
Scotland’s north-east coast offers many wonderful ways to spend your time creating memories. Aberdeenshire resides in what was once the Kingdom of Alba, the predecessor to what we know now as the country of Scotland, and the deep history can be felt across the region.
From the Royal Estate of Balmoral, the summer home to His Majesty Charles III, to the MacBeth stone at Lumphanan – a marker of the death of the historic King, inspiration for Shakespeare’s titular character, that was placed nearly 1000 years ago – and the beautiful town of Stonehaven, its harbor surrounded by local eateries with the stunning ruins of Dunnottar Castle merely a stone’s throw away, Aberdeenshire has something for everyone. You can explore the countryside, taste some world-famous Scotch Whisky, or sample what could be the best golf course you’ll ever play.
Nestled along the county’s coastline is Trump International Golf Links, stretching out down the beaches and cliffs of the North Sea. The golf course was opened in 2012 to rapturous acclaim and accolades from reviewers based around the globe. Designed by Dr Martin Hawtree, Trump International offers over 7400 yards of breathtaking panoramas and spectacular golf, along with a 22-acre driving range and short game area to perfect your game on.
In the words of Dr Hawtree, a renowned links course architect who has worked with The R&A on their Open Championship courses, there was no doubt about the potential of the site right from the beginning of conception.
Designed as a classic pair of out-and-in loops of nine, the championship course engages the golfer throughout the dunes it progresses through, rising and falling into valleys of rich vegetation and wildlife. The course also claims at least six tee boxes on every hole, allowing players of every standard and distance to experience an engaging and appropriate challenge for guaranteed enjoyment during their round in the lands of Auld Alba.
There’s more available for guests at the Trump MacLeod Hotel and Lodge than just golf, however. The Five-Star Hotel, situated in Balmedie, just outside of Aberdeen, hosts a collection of unsurpassed experiences for outdoor lovers. Whether you desire woodland walks, beach runs, or a spot of Clay Pidgeon shooting, the Trump Estate boasts a team of highly skilled instructors to assist you in achieving your target regardless of how high you aim.
Guests at the Trump MacLeod Lodge will also benefit from exclusive personal service from in-house staff, including help with travel itineraries, as well as offering priority booking at venues and clubs across the area. The Heritage Retreat at MacLeod Lodge also contains facilities for a tremendous array of treatments for both body and mind, available for the indulgence of both female and male visitors, alongside a premium nail bar.
The Trump MacLeod Estate is also happy to provide exquisite menus within the MacLeod House Dining Room, sampling local fish, game, and other seasonal produce. Surrounded by the beautiful features and furnishings of opulent period pieces, the team of chefs and staff will provide an imaginative dining experience, filled with flair, in a perfect venue for the family to relax in or friends to be impressed by while tasting the best of Scotland’s delicious food, fine wines, and malt whiskies.
MacLeod House, with its stunning artwork, high ceilings adorned with chandeliers, and warming fireplaces, makes its dining room with lounge and bar available for up to 70 guests, offering the space for parties, events, and weddings that will stand out amongst their peers. Working with the team, you can design a custom menu around your needs and requirements – whether casual dining or an extravaganza of the finest foods.
Alternatively, why not visit the Clavis Whisky Bar within MacLeod House, a hidden jewel that boasts over 250 Scottish and International malt whiskies in its extensive collection? Dark walnut and golden tones offer a superb environment to sink into, with beautiful lockers around the room containing highly sought-after and rare items from worldwide producers. You can even pick up a dram of Trump Scotland’s collaboration with GlenDronach Distillery, commissioned in 2012 to celebrate the opening of the golf course.
Moving back to the golf, The Clubhouse is available to visitors who prefer to stay closer to the links while enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner, with The Dunes Bar and Restaurant’s immaculate tweed and walnut seating and floor-to-ceiling windows providing a luxurious position to observe the stunning views of the great dunes of Scotland. With a well-stocked pro shop offering exclusive gifts and accessories to remind you of the quality time spent at Trump International.
If you know yourself to be a golfer of good taste, the Trump Estate has offers available for you to book from September 15th to ensure you don’t miss out on this world-class experience.
Offer valid until October 31st, 2024
Package includes:
One night at Trump MacLeod House & Lodge
Daily breakfast
One round at Trump International Golf Links, Scotland
Access to short game & putting green
Complimentary resort shuttle
Access to Clavis Whisky Bar
Access to Trump's Restaurant & Cellar
Beauty & Wellness treatments at the Heritage Retreat*
Price £595 per person (Single occupancy)
Price £450 per person (Double occupancy)
To book, contact our bookings team:
Email: bookings@trumpgolfscotland.com or Call: 01358 743300
*Subject to availability and daylight hours. **Additional fees apply, subject to availability, advance booking is recommended. Offer available to book and play until October 31st, 2024.
Offer valid until March 31st, 2025
Package includes:
One night at Trump MacLeod House & Lodge
Daily breakfast
Two rounds at Trump International Golf Links, Scotland
Access to short game & putting green
Complimentary resort shuttle
Access to Clavis Whisky Bar
Access to Trump's Restaurant & Cellar
Beauty & Wellness treatments at the Heritage Retreat*
Price from: £460 (per person, per night, based on two sharing)
To book, contact our bookings team:
Email: bookings@trumpgolfscotland.com or Call: 01358 743300
*Subject to availability and daylight hours. **Additional fees apply, subject to availability, advance booking is recommended. Winter Stay & Play package available Wednesday - Sunday from November 1 until March 31, 2025
About the author
Lewis Daff
Lewis Daff joined the Today’s Golfer digital team in 2024, having spent more than a decade in both big box golf retail and independent stores, working as a club fitter and builder.
Experienced with every level of golfer, from beginner to professional, he has achieved Master Fitter and Builder status with most major manufacturers, including Mizuno, Taylormade, and Callaway, helping him to cement both a wide and deep knowledge base. Lewis specializes in Clubs, Shafts, Training Aids, Launch Monitors and Grips.
In Lewis’ bag is Titleist GT3 Driver (9º) with Fujikura Ventus Black, Titleist GT2 Fairway Wood (15º), Wilson Staff D9 Forged 3-iron, Srixon ZX7 MKii Irons (4-PW), Titleist SM9 Wedges (52º, 60º), Toulon San Diego Putter, and Callaway Chrome Tour Ball.
Talk to Lewis about why steel shafts are now dead and graphite is the only way forward or any other equipment you’d like to debate via his email.