Looking for a festive family break, StyleNest recently headed to five star hotel Fairmont St Andrews in Scotland.
Stepping into reception, a warm and glowing fireplace immediately grabs your attention, welcoming guests in from their travels. Helpful concierge to hand beside the main entrance, the reception team also offer advice and information upon check-in. Shown to our room, a note and Christmas candle had been left awaiting our arrival; a lovely touch to start the stay. A room decorated in a plush Scottish theme, the interiors are both classic and modern. Two little ones in tow, the kids were naturally thrilled to discover a toy Scottie Dog would be their pet for the night.
After settling in with a coffee from the room’s Nespresso machine, I was shown around the hotel by lovely Marketing Executive Jenna. Particular highlights included the hotel’s Atrium, a vast room covering the ground floor which leads onto fine dining restaurant and breakfast destination, The Squire. Discovering the many different rooms and conference suites of the hotel, I was particularly impressed to find that kids’ films are shown in the John Barbour Auditorium. In busier times, there may be festive films or seasonal showings, but the best bit is if you have restless children, reception will put on a DVD at your request.
Taking a dip in the pool, we looked out at the sea and enjoyed the scenic surroundings. The hotel is set in vast grounds, and plays host to two championship golf courses, so you are never short of an amazing view. Child-friendly, there is a smaller section to take little ones and space to lounge beside the pool too. A fully equipped gym is nearby, plus sauna, steam room and spa complete with 12 treatment rooms. Offering StyleNest favourite Aromatherapy Associates, a mental note has been made to return minus minis for some full rest and relaxation.
For dinner we headed to La Cucina, the hotel’s recently opened Italian restaurant. A lovely family food destination, the bright and ambient atmosphere was completely relaxed. Herbs are grown in a greenhouse just outside the hotel, within sight of the restaurant and there is a focus on authentic Italian cuisine. On a higher level than the Atrium, La Cucina has a balcony over which guests can survey The Squire, a fine dining eatery should you be looking for a more grown up feel. Impeccable food and service, the kids were wilting by dessert so we asked to take our Tiramisu back to our room. A member of the waiting team helped carry our pudding along the corridors, finishing off our evening perfectly. If you were to have a later evening than ours, the Rock and Spindle Bar offers a food menu until 10pm and beverages into the wee hours.
Breakfast the next day was in The Squire, a bustling hub of pastries, cooked breakfast and cereals. A chef on hand to make up whatever you would like, our eldest was thrilled when he whipped up a batch of pancakes. Not wanting to end our Fairmont experience, we extended the trip by meeting family for coffee in Kittocks Den. Catering for casual dining and afternoon tea, this cosy little hub adds to the charm of Fairmont’s collection of food facilities. In the summer months, external eatery The Clubhouse offers food with a view of the amazing coastline. Just another reason to add to our list, making a return visit to the fabulous Fairmont an absolute must.
Need to Know:
Rooms and suites: The hotel has 209 luxury guestrooms.
Rates: Prices start from £179 per night for a Traditional Fairmont Room with breakfast in The Squire restaurant.
Check-In Time: 3pm
Checkout Time: 12 noon
Facilities: Enjoy fine dining in The Squire or head to Italian restaurant La Cucina for a more relaxed family vibe. Rock and Spindle Bar serves bar meals and drinks or take afternoon tea in Kittocks Den. In summer months, external eatery The Clubhouse serves food for golfers and guests taking a walk in the grounds. Take a dip in the pool, work-out in the gym or head to one of 12 treatment rooms at the spa. Enjoy a round of golf on one of the two championship golf courses, making the most of The Torrance and The Kittocks. Explore the hotel’s impressive site, and take a stroll on the nearby beach which boasts breathtaking panoramic views. Complimentary overnight parking is available, in addition to valet services. Pets are welcome at the hotel and can be booked in with the Pet’s Package.
How to get there: Just outside the centre of St Andrews, the hotel is simple to access via car. Local train station Leuchars is a 20 minute drive, linking to Edinburgh and other main train lines. Three major international airports are within driving distance; Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen. The closest airport to reach is Edinburgh Airport, a 60 minute drive away. In addition, the helpful concierge can easily assist with any travel requirements guests may have.
Fairmont St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife KY16 8PN
Telephone: 01334 837000
Email: [email protected]