THE lure of the Scottish Highlands proved irresistible for Royal Dornoch’s Head of Golf, Scott Sellars.

Six months into the new role created at the world-famous club, the 37-year-old family man has been exploring the region whenever time allows in an otherwise hectic schedule.

The climate may be quite a change from Mauritius and the Middle East, where he spent the last decade, but Scott and his family already feel right at home in the picturesque Highland golf town.

“When I arrived, I was of course aware of the big names in the area – Royal Dornoch, Castle Stuart, Nairn and so on. What I wasn’t aware of as much, and what has been brought up many times by colleagues and members, is just how many amazing little courses we have throughout the Highlands and how scenic they are.

“Having been a golf nut all my life, I’m determined to experience them for myself.

“My wife enjoys the great outdoors, so combining that with great golf is perfect for us and for young families in general.

“We’ve been making the most of our time recently by exploring further afield.

Durness had always been on my bucket list and it certainly didn’t disappoint. The drive through the Highland mountains is worth it on its own and the hospitality on arrival is second to none.

“Spectacular views, sunshine and turquoise water – it was just like being back in Mauritius again!

“The scenery on the journey to the north-west corner of the country is simply amazing. The drive really is incredible.

“It’s a tiny place, but you get a great welcome and the views on the course are fantastic, whether you are looking at the sea or the mountains. There are some very special holes.

“Recently I played Bonar Bridge and that is another fantastic little nine-hole course.

I’ve been working my way through the list, with Ullapool and Portmahomack next on the list over the coming weeks.

“I had heard about these village golf courses at the heart of their communities and they are well worth a visit.

“One thing that has really stood out to me since I arrived is how well the clubs across the Highlands work together and support each other. We have Tain and Golspie just down the road as well, so I always encourage golfers coming to Dornoch to enjoy some of the other courses in the region.

“The caddies are great ambassadors for recommending courses that might not be as well known as others, and visitors certainly have plenty of gems to choose from, that’s for sure.”

Scott’s first experience of Dornoch came during a family touring holiday last summer.

“We had been on a road trip around Scotland and Dornoch was one of our stops,” he recalled.

“I was fortunate enough to play the Championship Course while the rest of the family enjoyed walking along Dornoch Beach. After golf, we explored the area and quickly fell in love with the town.

“A few months later, the role of Head of Golf appeared on my radar.

“The timing was perfect as we had already made the decision to return to the UK, closer to friends and family, after almost 10 years in the Middle East and Mauritius.

“My first visit to Dornoch was on that holiday and, from the moment we arrived, it felt different.

“Driving through the town in the sunshine, seeing golfers walking the streets withtheir clubs and enjoying the pubs and cafés all combined to create a fantastic atmosphere.

“It really is a special place.”

Scott is confident that golf tourism in the Highlands will continue its recent growth, and there is plenty to look forward to at Royal Dornoch.

“With the new clubhouse now open, and ambitious plans to further enhance the Struie Course, develop first-class practice facilities and create a third course, the next 10 years are going to be incredibly exciting.

“We also have significant milestones ahead, including the club’s 150th anniversary next year. Having recently hosted major events such as the PGA Seniors Championship, and with the Curtis Cup coming in 2028, it’s a fantastic time to be part of the club.”