Many great golf resorts in America are the darlings of specific regions, but only a select few share the universal recognition and acclaim that is enjoyed by Gleneagles within the United Kingdom.
In short, it remains the standard-bearer for luxury resort hotels in the British Isles and is the best place to stay on your Scotland golf vacation.
| Gleneagles Hotel |
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Commanding a peninsula on an 850-acre estate in the picturesque Perthshire countryside, this massive, French chateau-style structure was dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World when it opened in 1924. It is now owned by Diageo, the international beer and spirits concern (Guinness, Bailey’s, Smirnoff, Johnny Walker and others).
Gleneagles has its own railway station on the London to Inverness line, its own bank, its own elegant shopping arcade, and world-class outdoor activities such as horseback riding, shooting, fishing, falconry, and off-road driving.
All three of its golf courses (the King’s, the Queen’s and the Jack Nicklaus-designed PGA Centenary Course) and the American-style practice facilities are beautifully maintained and its clubhouse is the pinnacle of sumptuous elegance.
Gleneagles’ rooms differ according to their size and views (and price), but each is stylishly decorated, with sensuous bed linens, plenty of closet space, marvelous views of the gardens and hotel grounds and spacious, marble bathrooms. Standard amenities include mini-bars, terrycloth bathrobes, cable television and designer toiletries.
There is only one caveat: those looking for an authentic, Scottish experience, meaning austere and understated, might be disappointed by Gleneagles. In fact, it is routinely blasted by purists for being too well kept, too perfect and too...American.
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