Glenapp Castle

A premier destination hotel on Scotland’s southwestern coast, Glenapp Castle boasts a grandeur that extends far beyond the luxurious manor to its breathtaking scenery, stunning grounds, impeccable service and plethora of activities on offer.

• The Downton Abbey–style vibe with unparalleled service
• Working gas fireplaces in the bedrooms
• Star-gazing with an astronomer

At the end of a single lane–road flanked by small houses and open pastures stretching down to the sea, a dense forest hides one of the UK’s most exceptional hotels.

A footman comes out to greet guests as they circle around the hand-carved stone flower bed in front of the entrance. There is no front desk or receptionist, and no need to show your passport or hand over a credit card. Instead, simply sign the guest book before being escorted to the drawing room or directly to your room. All 20 rooms and suites are spacious with beautiful views of the gardens, while some on the higher floors have unobstructed views of the sea.

Glenapp’s award-winning restaurant boasts two separate grand dining rooms serving excellent gourmet cuisine sourced locally, including from the castle gardens. Guests can choose a six- or three-course set dinner menu. The Tea House, located in the formal walled garden, serves homemade cakes and treats. While more feminine in style throughout the year, the teahouse is transformed in winter into a masculine “tack room” pub with a billiards table.

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the western coastline’s dramatic landscapes and tricky winds as they play on the four championship courses in Ayrshire – Royal Troon, Prestwick, Western Gailes, and Turnberry – which are all within an hour’s drive of the hotel. Further access is available to an additional 20 courses nearby. Those looking for an even more unique challenge would enjoy island golf on the Isle of Arran, a short boat trip away across the Firth of Clyde.

Non-golfers, too, have plenty of activities both on and off property to choose from, including archery, fishing (including for salmon), mountain biking, hiking, croquet, tennis, clay pigeon shooting and private foraging sessions. Classic car rentals and horse-drawn carriage rides can be arranged with advanced notice. And the nearby historic estates of Culzean Castle, Dumfries House and Blair Estate are well worth a visit. Indagare can arrange a private lunch inside the library at Dumfries House.

Seafarers can hop aboard Glenapp’s own boat for excursions to the nearby islands. Ailsa Craig has a massive wildlife sanctuary home to over 40,000 birds, including puffins and visitors can hike to the top of the 1,100-ft summit for sweeping panoramic views. (On a clear day, you can easily see the coast of Ireland.) The Isle of Islay is home to many whisky distilleries and the main Hendricks’s distillery is also nearby.

Although Glenapp does not have a spa on property, the staff can arrange a visit to the Pebbles Spa a short drive away. Here, guests can bounce between massage treatments with Thalgo marine products and swimming in the infinity pool.

Couples seeking a fairytale castle experience. Families with children will love the activities on offer, as well as the complimentary bikes to explore the grounds.

Indgare Tip: Glenapp is available for exclusive buyout.