Wide fairways define Dundonald Links in North Ayrshire, a modern design along Scotland's west coast

IRVINE, Ayrshire, Scotland -- Dundonald Links might be young compared to its historic neighbors -- Royal Troon, Western Gailes and Prestwick Golf Club -- but the site does have some interesting history.

There was an early course named the Dundonald Golf Club from 1911-1936 before the land was taken over by the military. Architect Kyle Phillips brought golf back to the mostly flat site, creating a 7,100-yard modern links that opened in 2003.

Phillips, best known for his work at Kingsbarns, uses wide fairways cut through man-made dunes to make players feel confident before tightening the shot-making demands on the approach. Penal bunkers surround some wild greens.

Burns protect several holes, notably in front of the greens at no. 9 and no. 18. The 13th and 16th holes play parallel to the railroad tracks that separate the course from Western Gailes. The signature swing comes on the 11th tee box, a perplexing 120-yard par 3 with an elevated green. Short shots knocked down by the wind typically end up in a marsh or three deep front bunkers. A shot long might end up in a devilish pot bunker smaller than a bathtub.

Jason Scott Deegan has reviewed and photographed more than 1,100 courses and written about golf destinations in 25 countries for some of the industry's biggest publications. His work has been honored by the Golf Writer's Association of America and the Michigan Press Association. Follow him on Instagram at @jasondeegangolfpass and Twitter at @WorldGolfer.
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Wide fairways define Dundonald Links in North Ayrshire, a modern design along Scotland's west coast