Gleneagles, Scotland
The Ochil Hills are a 25-mile stretch of mountains, occasionally peaking at a cloud-piercing 2,000 ft that stretch from the Firth of Tay to Stirling, playing their role in making this part of Scotland so spectacular. Beneath the Ochils in prime Perthshire countryside you find the 850 acres of the Gleneagles estate, where you can indulge in, almost literally, an A-Z of country pursuits. Making the most of the greatest of great outdoors, you can ramble, horse ride or cycle through endless woodland, cairn, riverside and forest trails that inspired the likes of Wordsworth.
Try your hand at everything from falconry and clay or game shooting to archery, salmon and trout fishing, or even work with gundogs and ferrets. When you’re tired form the day’s adventures, you’ve got the splendour of the 232-room Gleneagles hotel, arguably the world’s most luxurious golf hotel, dating back to the 1920s era of railway resorts, now thoroughly modern, but in all the right places, still boasting character and first-class service at every turn. Later, dining at the two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, you have the perfect day, and that’s before you tackle the three Championship course, including the two original King’s and Queen’s courses and the PGA Centenary Course, host of the 2014 Ryder Cup and 2019 Solheim Cup.
Where You Stay
Gleneagles
Whether in the main house amid all its resplendent history and sweeping staircase, or, keeping the gym, spa and pool handy in Braid House, every room is full of countryside cosiness, but with the luxury touches that come at this end of the hotel scale.
Where You Play
The King’s Course
Dating back to 1919, and designed by five-times Open champion James Braid with mountain views aplenty, this was where USA faced Great Britain in 1921 in what would be a pre-cursor to the Ryder Cup.
The Queen’s Course
Also designed by Braid, with CK Hutchison, this more compact course opened before the King’s, in 1917, and was renovated in 2017. It’s been graced by the likes of Tom Watson, Greg Norman and Seve Ballesteros.
The PGA Centenary
Every tee offers up views of the Ochils, and this course by Jack Nicklaus, although dating back to just 1993, is already among the greats. Described by Nicklaus as ‘the finest parcel of land in the world I have ever been given to work with’, it hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup and 2019 Solheim Cup.
The Must Do
Take afternoon tea in the Glendevon, enjoying cake, delicate pastries and refined sandwiches in the same setting where world leaders once met for the G8 Summit.
When To Visit
May to September.
Expandable content
What is special about Old Course, St Andrews?
The Old Course at St Andrews is renowned as the "Home of Golf" and is one of the oldest and most iconic golf courses in the world. It has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including The Open Championship. Its rich history, unique layout, and challenging holes, such as the famous Road Hole, make it a must-play for any golf enthusiast.
Where is St Andrews located?
St Andrews is located on the east coast of Scotland, in the county of Fife. It is a historic town known for its beautiful beaches, medieval ruins, and prestigious university, as well as its legendary golf courses.
What room options are there in Old Course Hotel?
The Old Course Hotel offers a range of luxurious room options, including Eden Rooms, Old Course Rooms, Fairway Suites, and the sumptuous Royal and Ancient Suite. Each room is elegantly designed, providing stunning views of the Old Course, the town of St Andrews, or the beautiful coastline.
What is included in this trip?
This trip includes accommodation at the Old Course Hotel, guaranteed tee times on the Old Course and other renowned courses in the area, daily breakfast, and access to the hotel’s spa and fitness facilities. Additionally, guests can enjoy personalised concierge services to assist with dining reservations, sightseeing tours, and other activities.
What is the best time of the year to golf at Old Course, St Andrews?
The best time of the year to golf at the Old Course, St Andrews, is from late spring to early autumn, specifically May through September. During these months, the weather is generally more favourable, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, providing optimal conditions for golfing.
