What it is

A 144-room retreat on the 17th road hole of St Andrews—a.k.a. where the sport of golf was invented some 600 years ago in the 15th century (and yeah, this is the same course).

What it isn't

All about golf, 24/7. Other activities here include a Scottish clay shooting center, horseback riding through their 300 acres of farms, and land yachting expeditions on the beach (complete with shortbread for snacks, natch).

What we think

Talk about rolling out the red carpet. Suites here were designed by French aesthete Jacques Garcia and match their iconic location, whether you opt for Eden Suites (with red leather sleigh beds and upholstered walls) or the Royal & Ancient Suite, where floor to ceiling windows peep out on the 17th fairway and the frothy sea beyond. Starter rooms are perfectly welcoming, thanks to Kohler-outfitted bathrooms, private balconies on many rooms and an ever-helpful golf concierge who’ll set you up to play well with a tee time, loaner equipment, and anything else you may need to make like local pro Colin Montgomerie. While you’re here, stop by their Pro Shop, the only PGA-approved boutique in the town, for bespoke fit irons and drivers plus bountiful branded hats to prove to your golf buddies you were here.

You're here because

It’s a Kohler resort, which guarantees the spa will be jaw-dropping. Here,the 25,000-square-foot paen to relaxation includes everything from a hydrotherapy pool to a hot tub in a rooftop garden, plus treatments like a Golfer’s Foot Renewal scrub, mask and massage.

The Moment

You didn’t meet your golf goals today, but at afternoon tea in the conservatory, you just don’t care. One sip of your Deutz Classic Brut Rosé Champagne and a nibble on pink champagne and strawberry preserve-topped housemade scone, and it’s clear you’re winning.

Restaurants & Bars

Road Hole Restaurant - Three AA Rosette - Traditional Scottish Cuisine Sands Grill - One AA Rosette - Relaxed Informal seafood and grill

The Jigger Inn - Locally sourced traditional Scottish Pub Food

The Dukes Clubhouse - Hearty Scottish Cuisine, perfect for the hungry golfer

Location

The storybook Scottish village of St Andrews, known in some circles as the place where Prince William met and courted his future bride, Kate Middleton.