Best for: hydrotherapy and heritage
Most guests might arrive at this landmark St Andrews hotel aiming to hit a few balls on its world-famous golf course, but the in-house Kohler Waters Spa has no trouble standing on its own merits. Revamped during the pandemic (at a cost of £7 million), it has hydrotherapy at its heart – no surprise, really, when you learn that owner Herb Kohler made his fortune in plumbing. Last year, the spa had a further mini renovation so everything feels in tip-top condition. Also new for the year ahead, it has launched a new Cold Water Wellness Retreat, in partnership with triple Olympian and Olympic silver medallist, Keri-anne Payne. Taking place in May 2024, participants can explore the benefits of cold water swimming and bracing dips in the open water spaces surrounding the iconic Old Course Hotel.
Meanwhile, inside, there’s a 20-metre pool, and a dedicated thermal suite, including a hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and plunge pool. As well as a raft of massages, facials and organic Made for Life treatments (ideal for those undergoing medical treatments), the healing properties of water are harnessed in a choice of wet therapies. The Lavender Rain ritual, for instance, includes a crystal salt scrub and an experience shower with lavender-infused water to fine-tune the senses.
If you don’t fancy tackling the 17th hole – known as ‘Road Hole’ and said to be one of the most difficult in the world – then you can watch amateurs and professionals alike attempt it from the safe distance of the spa (the hotel is conveniently positioned alongside it). Alternatively, head to the nearby Fife coastline for head-clearing, bracing walks along the beach – film buffs will recognise nearby West Sands from the famous Chariots of Fire scene.
Address: Old Course Hotel, Old Station Road, St Andrews.
Price: Doubles from £340.
Website: oldcoursehotel.co.uk