Hidden Gems: Covesea Links, Buckpool & Spey Bay
Scotland is famous for its championship venues, but some of the most memorable rounds are played on courses that don’t shout the loudest. In Moray, a handful of coastal layouts quietly deliver outstanding golf without the crowds or headline price tags.
If you’re building a golf trip to the north-east of Scotland, these three courses deserve serious consideration.
Covesea Links – Pure Coastal Golf
Set beside the Moray Firth near Lossiemouth, Covesea Links Golf Course captures the spirit of traditional Scottish links golf in a relaxed and welcoming setting.
Built in 2010 on natural coastal ground, the layout makes excellent use of rolling terrain, sea breezes and firm fairways. It is walkable, informal and full of character. The setting alone makes it special — with wide views across the Firth and the chance of spotting dolphins offshore.
Covesea works perfectly on arrival or departure days. It’s enjoyable, scenic and refreshingly unpretentious — golf stripped back to its essentials.
Buckpool – Elevated Links with Coastal Views
Just east of Buckie, Buckpool Golf Club sits slightly higher above the Moray Firth shoreline, offering expansive coastal views alongside classic links character. The course makes excellent use of natural undulations and elevated vantage points, with greens that reward imagination and touch.
Buckpool may not have championship branding, but it provides an authentic links test. Wind direction can change the way holes play entirely, encouraging creative shot-making rather than brute force.
For golfers who appreciate traditional Scottish design and dramatic coastal outlooks, Buckpool is a must-play addition to any Moray itinerary.
Spey Bay – True Sea-Level Links
Designed by Ben Sayers in 1907, Spey Bay Golf Club is a classic sea-level links course laid directly along the Moray Firth shoreline. The terrain is flatter and more exposed, bringing the elements fully into play and demanding thoughtful positioning throughout the round.
While not directly beside the River Spey despite its name, the course benefits from its proximity to the coast and ever-changing conditions. Playing at sea level gives Spey Bay a traditional links feel, where wind, firmness and strategy shape the experience.
Spey Bay continues to grow its reputation as one of the region’s most enjoyable and accessible coastal rounds.
Why Hidden Gems Matter
Courses like Covesea, Buckpool and Spey Bay provide:
- Outstanding value
- Relaxed playing environments
- Quick pace of play
- Authentic Scottish atmosphere
- Scenic coastal settings
They also balance perfectly with championship venues such as:
- Moray Old Course
- Moray New Course
- Elgin Golf Club
Discover More in Moray
Moray’s strength lies in its diversity. Championship tests, inland precision and welcoming coastal layouts all sit within easy reach of one another.
If you’re planning a golf trip to Scotland, don’t overlook the courses that quietly deliver some of the region’s most enjoyable experiences.
A First-Timer’s Guide to Playing Moray Golf Club
Moray Links vs Inland Golf – What Makes the Region Unique
For more information or personalised trip advice, drop us a message at info@golfmoray.com.
Get in touch
Email: info@golfmoray.com
Golf Moray is independently curated by AKH Golf — showcasing the golf courses, and landscapes of Moray Speyside, Scotland