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A CONNOISSEURS SCOTLAND Scotland is a land that welcomes exploration. A country brimming with visual, historic and cultural treasures. A land combining scenic drama, quaint charm and always, with a warm welcome. Connoisseurs Scotland is the discerning person's way to discover the romantic, beautiful country. Each element in Connoisseurs Scotland is unique: after all, these companies are Scotland's finest accommodation providers, including castles, a vintage train and a luxurious sea-going yacht. Each member has a character of quality unto itself, while many revive the romance and elegance of times past. And, as each day reveals new wonders seeming at every turn, Connoisseurs Scotland cares for your needs and comfort. As a guest of Connoisseurs Scotland, you will experience Scotland's natural beauty, its grand traditions, its romance and above all, its most gracious hospitality. Connoisseurs Scotland - The Members
Boath House is a Georgian mansion set in 20 acres of gardens near Nairn, one of Scotland's golfing hotspots. Described by the Scottish Field in the 1950's as the most beautiful Regency House in Scotland, Boath House's philosophy includes organic fruit and vegetables from their own kitchen gardens, honey from their own bees and an eclectic wine list. Built circa 1825 for the Dunbar Family by Archibald Simpson of Aberdeen, considered to be an architectural genius of his time, Boath House was on Historic Scotland's 'endangered list' in the early 90s, until Don and Wendy Matheson found it, fell in love with it, and set about restoring this Grade A listed Georgian Mansion to its original splendour. With its twenty acres of gardens and parkland, including a beautiful lake and traditional, tranquil walled garden this is a perfect setting from which to explore the Grampian Highlands and Aberdeenshire. Follow this link to visit Boath House on-line
Castleton is a privately run country house hotel in glorious Tayside, with a well earned reputation as one of the best places in Scotland for food, ambience and service with well trained friendly staff and exceptional cuisine. Much of the food comes from their own vegetable garden and includes Castleton free range chickens and pigs. The Proprietors are particularly proud to serve home reared Tamworth pork, raised on their own ground and fed on windfall apples from the orchard! The large well kept lawn at the front of Castleton has a beautifully cared for 9 hole putting green and Croquet lawn. The moat borders the main garden and provides an enchanting walk through high trees, rhododendron arches and in spring, steep banks are cluttered with snowdrops, daffodils and bluebells Follow this link to visit Castleton House Hotel on-line
At the north end of the Crinan Canal, which connects Loch Fyne to the Atlantic Ocean, is a tiny picturesque fishing village of Crinan with its population of just under 60 inhabitants. For over 200 years the centre of this little community has been the Crinan Hotel. An international meeting point for Hebridean sailors, fishermen, yachtsman and holiday makers, this is a gastronomic jewel on Argyll's wild coast line - a perfect haven in which to relax and dine on the best of Scottish seafood From each of the hotel's individually designed bedrooms - many with private balconies - guests can take in the panoramic views of Argyll's rugged west coast, historic castles and the ever-changing collection of boats in the canal basin. Here is the ideal, undemanding base from which to enjoy the peaceful tranquility of this memorable part of the Scottish landscape Follow this link to visit the Crinan Hotel on-line
Our guests always comment on the warmth and friendliness of the hotel and its staff. Luxurious and impeccable though it is, you will find that Gleneagles has a refreshingly relaxed manner that is mirrored by the friendly courtesy of all the staff. From your first wholehearted Scottish welcome you will be looked after warmly and well. Relax in total luxury in our well appointed rooms - many with delightful views across the estate. Take time to enjoy the splendid interiors of our hotel where kings and queens, the stars and the successful have admired the grandeur and elegance of this famous 5 star resort. For those who enjoy the game of golf, Gleneagles offers the chance to play on some of the world's finest golf courses. There's the challenge of the King's Course, the secluded charms of the Queen's Course, or the nine hole Wee Course. Then there is the exceptional PGA Centenary Course (designed by Jack Nicklaus) venue for the 40th Ryder Cup matches in 2014. From the friendly welcome to the drive home, everything you could possibly ask for in a day's golf, golf tour or vacation, can be found at the Gleneagles Hotel: magnificent courses, luxury locker rooms, exclusive brands and a relaxed clubhouse serving great food and drink. Whether a leading pro or enthusiastic beginner, the Gleneagles courses are a test for any golfer. Follow this link to visit The Gleneagles Hotel on-line
A favourite amongst the world's golfing elite, Greywalls overlooks the 9th green and the 10th tee of Muirfield, one of the most famous golf courses in the world. You can't get much closer than that! With a fine reputation for excellent food, superb wines and friendly, professional service, Greywalls is the perfect venue for a relaxing break with residents having exclusive use of the house during the day. At night, the house is open to non-residents - dinner is the perfect end to a great day's golf. Greywalls is a unique hotel in a unique setting and provides the ideal venue in which to celebrate a special occasion or to explore East Lothian. Greywalls was designed by renowned British Architect Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1901. Lutyens is famous for being the principal architect for English country homes at the turn of the 19th century and this house is the only example of Lutyens work remaining in Scotland. Greywalls has been owned by the Weaver family since 1924. In 1948, the house became a hotel and has been run by the family ever since. Follow this link to visit Greywalls on-line
Hebridean Island Cruises is perhaps the world's most unusual cruise company, flying in the face of fashion, to operate only small ships, giving her guests rare glimpses of remote and otherwise inaccessible places. Explore the coastline of Scotland's Western Isles - reputedly the most beautiful in northern Europe - with the warmth of a Hebridean welcome. Cruise the spectacular west coast of Scotland, the Orkneys and Shetlands and remote, St Kilda. In 2005, Princess sails between Norway and Scotland on two new itineraries exploring some of the most spectacular Norwegian fjords. Hebridean Island Cruises operate an all inclusive, strictly-no-tipping pricing policy, which includes all shore trips, meals and house wines. Follow this link to visit Hebridean Cruises on-line
Inverlochy, one of Scotland's finest hotels, is uniquely located amongst the glens, lochs and mountains of the West Highlands of Scotland. At Inverlochy you will experience one of the most relaxing and exciting vacations of a lifetime, where every detail for your comfort and enjoyment has been carefully considered. Nestling in the foothills of the mighty Ben Nevis, Inverlochy Castle sits amidst some of Scotland's finest scenery. Inverlochy was built in 1863 by the first Lord Abinger, near the site of the original 13th century fortress. In September 1873 during a trip to Balmoral, Queen Victoria spent a week at Inverlochy sketching and painting, where she wrote in her diaries 'I never saw a lovelier or more romantic spot'. Inverlochy had been a private residence for over a hundred years until 1969 when it was converted from a family home to Scotland's finest country house hotel. Follow this link to visit Inverlochy Castle on-line
At the southern end of a fairly remote, yet very accessible country landscape, featuring remarkable scenic, historical and cultural diversity lies one of Scotland's truly finest small hotels, with character and charm which sits so well, peacefully and calmly with the evocative and quietly dramatic qualities of its surroundings. Although Knockinhaam Lodge has gone through a remarkable transition over the years, this delightful little hotel still bears testimony to the golden age of touring and sporting activity and has carefully retained all that unmistakable character and personality, and many artifacts of a bygone era. The essence of this beautiful landscape has been captured superbly in the hotel - the highest of standards of hospitality and comfort having been carefully and meticulously blended with glorious period pieces, wood paneling, wonderfully individual bedrooms and an ambience and atmosphere exuding grace, relaxation, timelessness and tranquility. You can often hear the silence. It is actually quite difficult to conjure up the remarkable feeling of personal well-being this generates, but a regular and growing following of discerning guests from all over the world return again and again, to savour the hotel's and the whole area's therapeutic and very enriching qualities. Follow this link to visit Knockinhaam Lodge on-line
Marcliffe at Pitfodels is luxurious, relaxed and elegant 5-Star country hotel set in the picturesque North-east of Scotland on the outskirts of the historic city of Aberdeen. Since the Marcliffe at Pitfodels was opened in 1993 by Soviet Premier Mikhail Gorbachev, it has earned an unrivalled reputation as Aberdeenšs only five-star hotel, and the ideal base for exploring all the many riches that Scotland has to offer. Situated in eleven acres of wooded grounds, the Marcliffe at Pitfodels offers world class salmon fishing, championship golf and itineraries full of historic castles and splendid landscapes. Many of the Marcliffe's beautifully appointed rooms have antique furniture and paintings. All have satellite TV and direct-dial telephones. The Conservatory restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. In summer, lunch can be enjoyed al fresco in our grounds. Our chefs specialize in the best of Grampian produce - Aberdeen Angus beef, game with fish and shellfish from local rivers and fishing ports. The wine cellar holds over 400 wines and the Drawing Room bar is stocked with more than 100 malt whiskies. An ideal location for all outdoor pursuits, the staff at the Marcliffe will be delighted to arrange golf, salmon fishing, stalking and grouse or pheasant shooting for our guests. Follow this link to visit Marcliffe at Pitfodels on-line
Myres Castle is steeped in history, situated in 44 acres of its own grounds, enclosed by a high stone wall, on the edge of the village of Auchtermuchty in north west Fife. The castle is set on a rise with panoramic views from the battlements over the surrounding countryside. The original Myres Castle was a Z-plan fortress dating from around 1530. The castle has been altered and extended throughout the years. The square tower top of grey ashlar was added in 1616, providing a striking contrast with the ochre harling of the rest of the castle. This tower top features garlands, shields, initials and, with a parapet and flagpole, is an impressive addition to the castle. The estate called "The Myres" is situated within the parish of Auchtermuchty. The lands of Auchtermuchty originally formed a part of the large possessions of the earl of Fife, and they were subsequently conveyed by marriage to Robert, Duke of Albany. However, in 1425 his son Murdoch, Duke of Albany, forfeited his estates to the crown. For a long time after 1425 the tenants of Auchtermuchty held their feus directly from the King, and their rents were accounted for in rolls of the Royal Exchequer. In the earliest documents referring to the lands of Auchtermuchty, they were divided into two parts, named respectively the North Quarter and the South Quarter of Auchtermuchty, and this division was maintained up to the end of the 16th Century. The first recorded renter of the South Quarter, " The Myres", was an Englishman called Robert Coxwell who lived at the Scottish Royal Court. Follow this link to visit Myres Castle on-line
The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa at the Home of Golf, has a location like no other sitting just paces from the fairway of the 17th 'Road Hole' of the Old Course - without doubt the most famous golf course in the world - the hotel enjoys spectacular views over all the links courses. The hotel is also within a stone's throw of the beautiful, surf-swept West Sands and only a five-minute stroll from the ancient university town of St Andrews. The largest golf complex in Europe, St Andrews has no less than ten championship courses in the immediate area, including the legendary Old Course and our own Duke's Course. A heathland course on a classic Scottish estate, Duke's offers 18 holes of outstanding championship play with spectacular views over the town - a perfect complement the town's many links courses. The prolific golfing facilities at the resort also include a range of tuition programmes for all standards at the St Andrews Academy, first class practice facilities and St Andrews' only PGA approved Pro Shop. Our dedicated team of Golf Stewards is on hand to assist you with arranging your perfect day's golf. Follow this link to visit the Old Course Hotel on-line
Set in the heart of Glasgow's fashionable West End, with its Victorian mansions and graceful terraces, One Devonshire Gardens is a small, luxury, award winning hotel, quite simply for those who expect and appreciate fine standards. All guests are entrusted to old fashioned values of personal service in relaxing comfort. Fine cuisine and an interesting wine cellar match the timeless quality of the house itself, with each of its individually designed suites exuding a personal welcome. Glasgow is home to Scottish Opera, The Scottish Ballet, The Royal Concert Hall and a host of acclaimed art galleries and museums including The Burrell Collection, The Kelvingrove Art Galleries, The Gallery of Modern Art and the Hunterian Museum. The city also features outstanding examples of the Architecture of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Glasgow's 12th century Cathedral is one of the most magnificent buildings of medieval Scotland. Follow this link to visit One Devonshire Gardens on-line
Prestonfield was built as the grand baroque home of Edinburgh's Lord Provost in 1687, to the designs of Sir William Bruce who had just completed the Royal Palace of Holyroodhouse nearby. Designed to impress and delight its many famous visitors, you will find Prestonfield remains just as splendid today - possibly even more so - with many of the original furnishings now lavishly restored and luxuriously opulent decoration throughout. Totally sumptuous in every way, Prestonfield was named as both the AA Hotel of the Year 2005 and as Scotland's Most Romantic Hotel, with Conde Nast Traveller considering it so extravagant it's like walking onto the set of some flamboyant costume drama. Described by Time Out as Edinburgh's star restaurateur, James Thomson, the man behind a collection of Scotland's best known restaurants, including the rooftop Tower and the world-renowned Witchery by the Castle, is the creative force behind Prestonfield. Thomson's uniquely decadent and highly individual style is given full reign at Prestonfield. The result? One of the most indulgent and individual places to stay in the world. Follow this link to visit Prestonfield on-line
For the discerning traveler nothing can compare to a tour aboard The Royal Scotsman - whether you have a special occasion to celebrate, want to explore the history and culture of Scotland or are simply looking for a unique and relaxing short break. This exclusive country house hotel on wheels provides a private haven for just 36 passengers, offering a revival of the romantic age or railway travel, combining Edwardian style with modern luxury. From the moment a kilted piper welcomes you aboard, to the steward who brings an early morning cup of tea, our attentive crew takes pride in enjoying your every need is attended. Our food and wine is considered to be amongst the best in Britain, with formal dining on board the epitome of elegance and style. Our luxurious state cabins each have their own private facilities, and at night the train is always stationary, thus ensuring a good night's sleep. Follow
this link to visit the Royal Scotsman on-line
Welcome to the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa and a unique opportunity to experience the ultimate in style and luxurious surroundings - capturing the colour and character of a contemporary Scottish Hotel. But there's more to Sir Walter Scott's own romantic town than its perennial appeal as a favourite spot on the international tourist map .Against a backdrop of one of the world's most evocative and spectacular city skyline, Edinburgh's illustrious past and the bustling present come together to provide the ideal setting for the perfect holiday, business event, conference, exhibition or the ultimate incentive. And there's no hotel in Edinburgh better placed than the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa. Nestling in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle and just a short step away from the world famous thoroughfare of Princes Street, our West End location in the heart of theatreland brings the best in city nightlife right to our doorstep. Explore the traditional delights of historic Edinburgh, the cobbled streets and small shops of the Old Town - or enjoy the glamour of the boutiques and Georgian architecture in upmarket George Street and the New Town. It's all here. Welcome to the Sheraton Grand Hotel and Spa. Follow this link to visit the Sheraton Grand Hotel on-line
The Manor of Stobo has a long history spanning over one thousand years. The building of the present castle began in 1805 and was completed in 1811 under the supervision of well-known architects Archibald and James Elliot. With the passage of time, Stobo Castle has undergone many improvements including a recent multi-million pound programme of modernisation. Today, it stands proud, a superb example of Scottish baronial architecture and an oasis of hospitality for all our guests. Because Stobo is a destination health spa, children under 16 can not be accommodated. At Stobo Castle Health Spa we understand this and are totally committed to providing an environment in which you can find all the elements of a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. And, what more perfect an environment could there be than a magnificent Scottish castle standing in its own grounds close to the waters of the River Tweed? Here in the tranquility of the Border countryside, you will discover a world where the cares and stresses of daily life simply melt away, where you are encouraged to spend time on yourself with a choice of over seventy different health and beauty treatments. Stobo Castle is unique. It exists purely to help you achieve a deeper sense of physical and mental well-being. Follow this link to visit Stobo Castle on-line
The Westin Turnberry Resort in Ayrshire overlooks the Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran and provides it's guests with two championship golf courses, the Ailsa (three times host to The Open Championship) and the Kintyre (Open Championship final qualifying course), The Colin Montgomerie Links Golf Academy and superb 9 hole Arran Course, an award winning Spa and an Outdoor Activity Centre. Welcome to a land of magnificent contrasts. To a place where untamed countryside and unspoiled coastline sit side by side, where history meets state-of-the-art, where Robert the Bruce once ruled. Turnberry's fascinating provenance and superb natural position combine to make any stay here a memorable experience. The Westin Turnberry Resort delivers the warmth and hospitality of a great country house, world-class golf on the famous links courses, excellent country pursuits, a marvellous spa and hours of simply doing nothing but relaxing. Follow this link to visit The Westin Turnberry Resort on-line We are delighted to bring you this update on one of Europe's preeminent luxury hospitality organizations. To this end we are grateful to A Connoisseurs Scotland's Chief Executive and "Roving" Connoisseur, Jeremy Hawkings for providing the information used to create this article. You may follow this link for more information on A Connoisseurs Scotland /// |
