Tain is one of the best under-the-radar courses in the Highlands – designed by Old Tom Morris in 1890 and refined over time into a characterful links with real variety. Nestled beside the Dornoch Firth, just south of Royal Dornoch, the course unfolds across gently undulating ground with sweeping sea views and gorse-lined fairways. The routing forms a loop rather than the traditional out-and-back, offering changing wind directions and diverse hole designs. The 11th (“Alps”) is a standout – a long par-4 with a blind approach over a ridge to a hidden green. The par-3 17th, set against the firth, demands a solid strike into a swirling breeze. Tain blends open, scorable holes with tighter, tactical stretches and rewards careful strategy over brute force. It’s often quiet, well-kept, and extremely friendly to visitors. With excellent drainage and firm playing conditions, it’s a proper links experience without the hype – just pure golf in a timeless setting.