Gleneagles
Perthshire

When it opened in 1924, Gleneagles, inspired by a belle-epoque grand palais, was described as a 'Riveria of the Highlands'. This spectacular hotel, set amidst 850 acres of stunning Perthshire countryside, has lost none of its charm. Less than an hour by chauffer service from Edinburgh and Glasgow international airports and five minutes from the Gleneagles train station, it is an ideal setting for couples and families alike who are looking for leisure and relaxation.

The estate’s 232 rooms and 26 suites are a happy compromise between traditional and contemporary, decorated with chic tartan cushions and bed throws to compliment a modern yet cosy colour scheme of creams, beiges, whisky and oatmeal. They are of course en-suite and have all the modern amenities one could wish for.

Dining at Gleneagles is legendary. For formal dining choose between Andrew Fairlie, Scotland's only holder of two Michelin stars serving French cuisine with a Scottish twist, or The Strathearn, the hotel's grand dining room that dates from its opening in 1924 which offers the finest classic dishes. For an informal environment Deseo is a bustling restaurant with a vibrant global menu, and The Century Bar, Auchterarder 70 and The Dormy Clubhouse ensure one has plenty of options during a longer stay.

With three 18-hole champion courses, it’s no wonder that Gleneagles is best known for its golf. World-famous for its picturesque courses, Gleneagles was the official venue of the Ryder Cup in 2014 and boasts some of the best indoor and outdoor practice facilities in the UK, as well as professional coaching and courses that are over 100 years old. Other outdoor pursuits include horse riding, fishing, falconry, shooting, archery and off-road driving. Suitable for all ages, the surrounding Scottish countryside makes for a glorious outdoor playground. For those less inclined to a day out on the green, the Gleneagles Club is a welcome haven; two heated indoor pools, thermal suite, sauna and spa, gym and tennis courts.

Within an hour’s drive of Edinburgh, Glasgow and The House of Bruar shopping and sightseeing opportunities are in abundance. The Cairngorms, Scone Palace and St. Andrews are also within easy reach. With plenty on offer and so much space in which to explore, there is little wonder as to why this world-class hotel remains such a popular option for the luxury traveller.

I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list.
Susan Sontag