A magical retreat in the idyllic glens of Perthshire, Gleneagles has a reputation that precedes it. A luxury hotel, a famous golf destination and, in more recent years, a spa sanctuary as well, here's what you need to know.
Step into the hotel and you're greeted by a Scot in a kilt - what could be more appropriate. The grand property was designed in homage to the French aristocracy’s chateaux tradition, and every inch is five-star, from the style to the service.
You could wander around the hotel and its grounds for days and still feel you hadn’t covered every area. Gleneagles is magical in that sense, but it doesn't feel overwhelming. The hotel, whilst big and busy, has an air of tranquility and you feel as if you have so much space you are in a little bit of paradise. Everything is traditional, from the décor to the staff uniforms and the falconry school.
The spa is a really carefully considered wellbeing experience catering to everything from specific health requirements to all-out pampering. There are separate leisure facilities including a pool and a gym, while the spa itself has a suite of indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, steam room, arctic mist shower, relaxation rooms and a Courtyard Garden. Their team of specialists offer ESPA spa treatment and also include physiotherapists, acupuncturists and more.
Separate to the spa is Bob & Cloche, a dedicated beauty space inspired by the 1920s ‘bob’ haircut, and the close-fitting cloche hat. It's like stepping into a starlet's dressing room complete with opulent furnishings and a roaring fire. It's perfect for a group of friends celebrating a special occasion.
Gleneagles is bursting with places to eat depending on your mood. The main restaurant, The Strathearn, is a fine dining experience with a reputation for excellence. The head chef is Andrew Fairlie, who’s world-renowned for his French-inspired cooking which has gained two Michelin Stars. A sommelier can help you decide on the perfect pairing and all the staff are exceptionally helpful, without being intrusive. A particular favourite is when they bring out the cheese board - a trolley with more than 25 cheeses to choose from. In addition, there's The Birnam for French-American fare - and its adjacent bar, inspired by the roaring '20s, for cocktails. For light lunches coffees and pastries, head to The Garden Café; for a drink after a round of golf go to the Dormy Clubhouse; whisky connoisseurs shouldn't miss The Century Bar, and Auchterarder 70 is the place for comfy armchairs and fine snacks.
Gleneagles is a small village about 15 minutes from Perth, secluded yet accessible in the heart of the Scottish countryside. If you decide to explore other areas of Scotland, you have Glasgow only an hour away. You can arrive by car or by train, as Gleneagles has its very own train station a few minutes walk from the hotel.
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