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Gleneagles for Non-Golfer ’ s
by Susan Campbell , Photos : Gleneagles
Scotland - There ’ s more than one kind of “ birdie ” you can get at Gleneagles in Scotland ’ s Perkshire countryside touted as one of the best golf resorts in the world . Me ? I got an impressive Harris Hawk named Lima landing right on my arm as part of a fabulous falconry class with instructor Duncan Eade of their British School of Falconry . In fact , there are so many other activities for non-golfers that it was impossible to do them all during my short visit . There is indoor and outdoor tennis , horseback riding including an indoor equestrian centre , gun dog training , archery , cooking lessons , skeet shooting , biking , off-road trekking , fishing , wildlife photography lessons and even Segway tours of the lush 850 acres .
Inviting Accommodations & Eclectic Dining
Though at first glance the impressive country estate can appear somewhat stuffy in its grandeur , make no mistake it is a very warm and welcoming retreat within . They provide luxury Scottish hospitality at its best in a mix of old world and new accommodations- 232 rooms and suites offerings all with modern amenities and free wi-fi throughout the resort . Those who love history will enjoy the older wing- built around 100 years agoand those seeking more updated abodes might find the newer wing more comfortable . They also have an entire community of stand-alone luxury cottages with fully equipped kitchens , ideal for extended stays .
Dining spans the gamut from uber high-end to fresh and lively market style with many unique bar / bistro types of affairs with great fare as well . And of course , high tea is always a grand tradition there .
The Gleaneagles Golf Pedigree
There is plenty for families to do , and they have an excellent kid ’ s club . Romantics will have no problem finding satisfying couple ’ s experiences either – they have an awesome spa with an indoor / outdoor water circuit . But the real claim to fame of this spot is the golf .
Royalty , superstar celebrities , and some of the world ’ s best players have beaten a path to its grounds to enjoy playing on their three excellent courses in the country that actually invented the sport !
This five-star resort is also ideal for business with huge well-equipped centres for conventions , and nature lovers will appreciate their 20 preserved natural habitats that offer incredible hiking as well .
www . gleneagles . com
Photo : Ian Robertson
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