1. As one of Scotland’s premier golf destinations, what inspired Cabot Highlands to develop the new Old Petty course, and how does it fit into the resort’s vision of delivering world-class golfing experiences?
The vision to build a second course has been part of the plan since the inception of Castle Stuart. However, the timing and circumstances aligned only recently with the acquisition by Cabot and Ben Cowan-Dewar’s willingness to push the vision forward.
Many world-class golf resorts feature multiple 18-hole championship courses, enabling guests to fully immerse themselves in an extended, rich golfing experience. Cabot Highlands shares this vision, aiming to create magical experiences for its guests that span 4-5 days through golf, other activities within the stunning Scottish Highlands, and on-site world-class accommodation. This second course will be key to achieving that.
2. The addition of Old Petty is highly anticipated. Could you share some insights into the design philosophy and key features of the course? What will make it stand out as a signature experience at Cabot Highlands?
The design of the Old Petty course was led by Tom Doak in collaboration with Cabot Highlands. This world-class links golf course was created as a companion to the existing Castle Stuart course, with a firm commitment to preserving and celebrating the unique natural environment of the area. Recognising that the local landscape plays an integral role in the golfing experience, sustainability was a key focus throughout the design process.
Tom Doak, known as a master of ‘Minimalism’, designed the course to highlight the inherent topographical features of the site. This philosophy ensures that minimal manipulation was made to the terrain, with shaping primarily focused on greens, tees, and bunkers, leaving much of the natural landscape untouched. The planning process also included steps to safeguard the environment, such as protecting winter nesting birds and avoiding low-lying poorly draining areas.
The routing of the course was crafted to take golfers on an exploratory journey across the site. Starting and finishing at the existing Castle Stuart clubhouse, it efficiently navigates key features such as dry stone walls, the Old Petty Church, Caesar’s Hill, and the 400-year-old Castle Stuart, which becomes a focal point for much of the course. The design also emphasises seamless transitions between tees and greens to maintain the natural flow of play.
The greens play a pivotal role in the course’s design. With firm and fast playing conditions typical of links courses, the areas 30-50 yards short of the greens significantly influence strategy. Detailed shaping and contouring were employed to deflect or guide shots, creating engaging challenges. Bunkering was executed with a restrained yet impactful approach, blending traditional revetted pots with larger, naturalised bunkers that harmonise with the coastal environment. These design choices ensure Old Petty stands out as a world-class addition to Cabot Highlands.
3. Scottish golf is steeped in tradition and has a strong connection to local communities. How will Old Petty enhance Cabot Highlands’ role in preserving Scotland’s golfing heritage while elevating its appeal to international players?
The design philosophy and features of Old Petty pay tribute to Scotland’s rich golfing heritage. Furthermore, Cabot Highlands remains committed to accessibility by keeping the course open to the public, avoiding the exclusivity associated with private memberships. This inclusive approach underscores its dedication to preserving the spirit of Scottish golf for both local communities and international visitors.
For international players, Old Petty represents a unique opportunity to experience the blend of heritage and modern design. The addition of a second world-class course elevates the appeal of the Highlands as a premier golfing destination, attracting players from North America and beyond. The involvement of Tom Doak, a globally renowned architect, further enhances this appeal, drawing enthusiasts eager to experience his latest work. By combining exceptional golf with on-site accommodations and immersive experiences, Cabot Highlands ensures that visitors can enjoy extended stays, exploring both the resort and the breathtaking Scottish Highlands. This comprehensive offering firmly places Cabot Highlands among the top golf destinations in the world.