The Machrie Hotel and Golf Links provide the perfect setting for any occasion. Whether you are planning a family vacation, a celebration, a business conference, or just looking for a good reason to play golf, you will find everything you need at the Machrie. Located on the Isle of Islay, this charming hotel and golf course are steeped in beauty and history.

The Main Attraction - Golf
The course was originally laid out in 1891 by Willie Campbell who believed it was "the best ground for a golf course that I have ever had the pleasure of viewing." Apart from a few changes made in the 1970s, the course remains very much the same as when Willie Campbell first constructed it all those years ago. Thus it is a traditional link course and, when playing, one gets the feeling of going back in time to the days of Harry Vardon and John Taylor. Indeed, the Machrie's main claim to fame is its own Open Championship of 1901 which included the 'Great Triumvirate' of Harry Vardon, John Henry Taylor and James Braid. It had the highest prize of any Open competition at that time of £100!

Unique Features of the Course
Prize money may have changed since then, but the course has remained virtually the same with the sand dunes providing natural hazards that will challenge most golfers. A feature of such a classic links course is the blind holes and there are a number of blind shots at Machrie. Whilst these may present a challenge on the first round, it does get easier but, if you feel you may need some help initially, then why not order a caddie through the hotel?

Advantages of the Weather
Although the weather can sometimes be a handicap, there are times when it is an advantage. Because Islay lies in the Gulf Stream, the climate is such that we do not suffer the same levels of snow and frost that is problematic for other courses and consequently, play is possible virtually all year round. Indeed, the winter turf is unique to The Machrie and golf is even made easier.

There are many reasons why you should play The Machrie, not least because of the stunning views over the bay, the fact that you can walk out of the hotel and onto the course and for its remarkable history. It is a course probably like no other you have ever played and one which you will fall in love with - most golfers do. If you have a love of the game, you enjoy beautiful scenery and a testing game of golf, then you have to play The Machrie.

The Machrie Hotel
Built approximately 250 years ago as a farmhouse, the Machrie became a hotel at the turn of the century. The Hotel has 16 bedrooms which include a mixture of both superior and standard accommodation to suit all requirements,- including a suite and a four poster bed. All of the rooms are en-suite with color television, direct dial telephone and tea and coffee making facilities. Food plays a major part in the hotel and our menus have a Scottish flavor, complemented by the presence of dishes with an international essence to ensure a wide variety of choice. Islay Beef and Lamb are renowned for their flavor and tenderness. Game is available from the island's estates and the waters around Islay provide lobster, crab, scallops and prawns.

Self Catering at The Machrie Hotel
Our 15 two bedroom Lodges are fully equipped with cooking utensils, cutlery, crockery, bed linen and towels. With a sofa bed in each, every lodge is capable of sleeping up to six people.

Superior Lodges
We have refurbished several lodges to an exceptionally high standard to include a dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, fridge and cooker in an open plan kitchen, two bedrooms and two bathrooms, one of which is en-suite.
The Machrie Accommodates Business Groups, Parties, and Families
The Machrie does not only accommodate the golfer. Besides golf, there are many other services and activities offered at The Machrie. Business groups, wedding parties, and families alike will find a pleasurable experience at The Machrie.

Conference Facilities
We can provide full conference facilities with a main function room seating up to150 people. Alternatively for smaller numbers we have The Library, which holds up to 50 guests depending on the style of seating. We can also provide visual aids and other assistance necessary to ensure that your conference runs smoothly. And, when the work is over, what better way to unwind than to have a game of golf.

Functions
Wedding parties, stag parties, golf societies - whatever the function we can cater for it. From a beautiful setting for photographs to the privacy of your own room for a special meal, just let us know your requirements and we can put together a suitable package with a staff fully trained in dealing with large functions.

Busy Doing Nothing
For your entertainment we have a full size snooker table, carpet bowls, pool table, croquet lawn, adult and children's bike hire, children's play area and nature trail. We can also arrange trips to distilleries, pony trekking, fishing, and car hire. The Machrie's quiet situation allows children to explore the countryside and play in the extensive hotel grounds without fear of busy roads. With the beach only a few minutes walk away, it is an ideal situation for all ages.