LOCATED on the edge of Scotland’s east coast, St. Andrews is known for its gentle seaside beauty, age-old cobbled streets and sprawling golf courses. This quaint medieval town is also home to the country’s first university, founded all the way back in 1413, which definitely adds a certain gravitas. As well as attracting hoards of students from around the world, it’s true that visitors coming to St. Andrews are mad about golf. It’s no surprise, then, that the top hotels in town are those that offer sporting facilities, namely first-rate golfing grounds.
The Grounds of Fairmont St Andrews
The Fairmont St Andrews is situated on a lush 520 acres and has a pleasant tranquillity lingering in the air, being positioned a couple of miles from the bustling town centre. You can really revel in the gorgeous views that seem to never end, taking in verdant green fields on one side and the crisp North Sea coastal line on the other. The charming private driveway up to the hotel from the main road let’s you experience this stunning landscape, and the grounds of this 5* resort are perfect for a bracing stroll. Needless to say, the property is most definitely an ideal spot for some outdoor rejuvenation, whether you’re playing golf on one of the two championship courses or otherwise.
The Grand Entrance at Fairmont St Andrews
Inside, the hotel impresses with its grand lobby, resplendant with cosy velvet and leather armchairs, and sky-high ceilings. It’s a dashing entrance area and the roaring fireplace was an extremely appealing feature during the chilly winter weekend we visited. Guest rooms, of which there are just over 200, are smartly-designed spaces with some lovely luxury touches, such as Le Labo toilettries and an array of international plug sockets, catering for the diverse clientele coming from various parts of the globe. The sea views from our suite were a gorgeous way to start each day, and really added a special ambiance.
The atrium lounge that offers coastal views
The staff is most hospitable and there is a shuttle that goes into town on the hour throughout the day, which is a really helpful addition, making it easy to pop into the city centre to try out the various restaurants, bars and charming tourist shops. There are some lovely landmarks in St. Andrews, including a ruined Cathedral on the sea front and the beautiful Botanic Garden which spreads out across 18 acres and features over 8000 species of native and exotic plants. The garden also has the cutest little tea room which is definitely worth a visit.
Stunning scallops at The Grill
Back at the Fairmont, be sure to make a reservation at The Grill – the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant that is truly excellent. Set upon a striking cliff top that provides the loveliest panoramic views over the hotel’s golf courses as well as St Andrews Bay, the restaurant is manned by a very able team with a terrific chef at its helm. The quality of the ingredients being used in each dish is crystal clear, as is the commitment to using local, seasonal produce from the finest suppliers in Scotland. During our visit, we were knocked off our feet by a langoustine ravioli that arrived on top of the richest bisque, as well as a fricassee of foraged mushrooms that were creamy and flavourful. The seafood on offer is exquisitely fresh: the turbot and lemon sole preparations we chose were amazing in their simplicity.
When fish is this good, it takes skill to dress it as delicately as possible, and The Grill passed with flying colours. For pudding, the sticky toffee pudding with lime foam is an eye-opener, and flourless chocolate cake served with walnut ice cream is an inspired combination. The Grill alone is reason to make a visit to Fairmont St. Andrews; it is a delightful asset to the local community. And if you’re worried about an overdose of calories, don’t forgot that there’s always the golf course to get you back into shape.
The freshest seafood at The Grill
by Derby Jones
Fairmont St Andrews
St Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom, KY16 8PN
Tel: +44 1334 837000
Email: standrews.scotland@fairmont.com
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