The Gleneagles Hotel
The quintessential luxury Scottish golf resort
The Gleneagles Hotel, a palatial escape deep in the Scottish glens, has seen it all since opening back in 1924. This grande dame has welcomed kings and queens, countless movie stars and also hosted the G8 summit of world leaders in 2005 and golf’s Ryder Cup in 2014.
You’ll find it all tucked into the resort’s sprawling 850 acres, from myriad eating and drinking venues to a trio of championship golf courses, tennis courts and facilities for country sports. And don’t forget the spa, complete with a bubbling outdoor hydrotherapy pool where you can watch the stars twinkle over the glens.
Unlike many of the country’s rural hotels, which are hidden deep in the remote Highlands, Gleneagles is very accessible from Scotland’s two largest cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow, and their international airports, though you can also still arrive romantically by train.
You’ll find it all tucked into the resort’s sprawling 850 acres, from myriad eating and drinking venues to a trio of championship golf courses, tennis courts and facilities for country sports. And don’t forget the spa, complete with a bubbling outdoor hydrotherapy pool where you can watch the stars twinkle over the glens.
Unlike many of the country’s rural hotels, which are hidden deep in the remote Highlands, Gleneagles is very accessible from Scotland’s two largest cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow, and their international airports, though you can also still arrive romantically by train.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- Take time to enjoy Gleneagles’ grand lobby as you enter. Its traditional color scheme of British racing green and white marble is a stylish nod to the Scottish property’s storied past.
- The refurbished Century Bar is one of Scotland’s grandest, most atmospheric spots for imbibing — there are more than 120 drams from which to choose. Settle in at the marble bar and let the knowledgeable bar staff expand your whisky world.
- Gleneagles is superb for families. Tiny travelers receive top-notch treatment from reception to restaurants, and are even invited to drive miniature Land Rovers around the grounds.
- Of course you can play tennis or swim at this luxury hotel, but why not try your hand at more traditional country sports? Gleneagles is one of the most renowned spots in Scotland to try out falconry, archery and shooting.
- Be sure to squeeze in a round on one of the hotel’s three renowned courses. These greens are some of the most famous in Scotland; the Ryder Cup was played on the PGA Centenary Course, while the King’s and Queen’s courses boast a long heritage, both celebrating their 100th birthdays in 2019.
Things to Know
- In addition to high-tech gym equipment and a large lane swimming pool, The Health Club offers a serene outdoor heated hydrotherapy pool where you can bubble away under the stars.
- Plan ahead if your desired dates fall during a golf event. A regular tournament host, Gleneagles was selected as the venue for the 2019 Solheim Cup (September 9 to 15), an international women’s golf competition between Europe and the U.S.
- The Spa at Gleneagles keeps busy. Book treatments in advance — the two-hour Source signature ritual uses Scottish honey and local river stones from surrounding Perthshire.
- If you’d like some alone time, take advantage of the gratis childcare in the well-equipped Little Glen children’s club (ages two to nine) or The Den kid’s lounge (unsupervised for ages six to 15).
- Unusual for a luxury Scottish hotel, dogs are welcome at Gleneagles. A pet bed, foam duvet, plastic floor mats with two bowls and a scoop set are provided, as are chargeable kennel facilities for those not wanting to room with their furry friends.
The Rooms
- Like the lobby, all 205 luxurious bedrooms and 27 suites have returned to a traditional luxury feel in recent years. Think deep greens and smooth grays, brightened with a tasteful and judicious use of tartan and a blend of modern and classic Scottish art.
- All rooms provide pillow menus, freestanding bathtubs and Asprey hair and skincare products.
- Since many of the Classic Rooms face inward, upgrade to enjoy sweeping views of the famous Scottish countryside. The extra investment is amply rewarded — no two suites are the same.
- While all the suites are sumptuous, we’re particularly partial to the bi-level Blue Tower Suite. Overlooking the hotel’s grand entrance, the two-bedroom accommodation boasts a steam shower room, a complimentary wet bar and an elegant spiral staircase leading up to a charming private library.
The Restaurants
- Named for its renowned late executive chef, Andrew Fairlie continues the toque’s legacy of presenting elevated Scottish cuisine with a French twist. The smoked lobster alone is worth the trip.
- The Strathearn may have been refurbished in 2019, but it still oozes old-world sophistication and romance. We’re talking traditional walnut gueridon trolleys and silver cloches, with steak tartare and chateaubriand starring on a Francophile menu that uses the freshest Scottish beef and salmon.
- New in 2018, buzzy The Birnam Brasserie is where to go when you just fancy a glass of Saint-Veran and a steaming bowl of soupe à l'oignon (French onion soup). This Paris-inspired eatery is a handy spot for light lunches and dinners, too.
- There are a flurry of other places to eat and drink at Gleneagles. Savor hearty grilled fare and wood-fired pizzas with views over the links at The Dormy, sip Scottish craft beers and shared plates at Auchterarder 70 or partake in classic afternoon tea in the Glendevon room.
Amenities
24-hour room service 
Babysitting services
Bar
Fitness classes
Golf
Gym
House car
Indoor pool
Meeting rooms
Outdoor pool
Pet friendly
Restaurants
Spa
Tennis
Getting There
