Our Venue Finding Coordinator Maria Hill enjoyed a Northern adventure recently at Gleneagles, the luxury hotel in Perthshire, Scotland.
Here’s what she got up to while she was there:
I arrived at Edinburgh airport to find myself greeted by Gleneagles own chauffer. Talk about swanky! I was definitely impressed and it was a lovely touch, made me feel very special. Once we arrived at the hotel we had some time to check out our bedrooms (gorgeous) and have a look round the hotel (stunning- with lots of tartan and traditional style décor).
Then it was time for a drinks reception, and a tour of the Spa. It is a really lovely space, very modern but still with a tranquil and relaxing air. The staff gave us a quick presentation on the hotel and its facilities. There is lots of activities to get stuck into, great conference facilities and an impressive golf course.
Dinner was a four-course meal, including haggis, neeps and tatties (well, when in Scotland!) and the requisite bagpiper. It was fantastic!
After dinner I was given a blanket (it is still very nippy up in Scotland this time of year) and went outside to watch a full band. It was very impressive.
I slept like a log, which was just as well because the following day was absolutely action packed!
Firstly I saw a Gun Dog demonstration, the level of training is amazing, then a falconry display, which was truly beautiful in the setting.
Then it was time for a look round the Equestrian centre and I even got some riding in. Following straight on from that it was off to the Shooting Lodge, surprised myself here with my prowess at the clay pigeon shooting!
Then I trotted off to the driving range (all this before lunch you know!) where I met some pro golfers who gave me some tips on my swing. (I think I will stick to the shooting).
I saw the fantastic Johnnie Walker whiskey outside bar, a really cosy place with a roaring fire and people’s whiskeys in the cabinets for whenever they visit Gleneagles.
After that it was finally time for lunch, which I was very grateful for as I was starving by this point. I went to a fantastic tapas restaurant called Deseo and it was delicious. The restaurant was fascinating because it has an emporium that acts as a farmers’ market inside it.
Once I had refueled it was back to the hotel for a full tour of the whole place. I couldn’t believe how big the resort was and how much it had to offer. I can safely say I would recommend it!
All in all a brilliant experience and the staff at Gleneagles were so friendly and helpful.
