Considering its first-class golf courses, breathtaking architecture and vibrant heritage, St Andrews will always reign as a perennially popular place to explore in Scotland. Add its boutique hotels into the already appealing mix and you’re looking at a dreamy combination. Here, we separate the best from the rest.
Hotel du Vin is the cherry on top of a trip to St Andrews. This expertly furnished hotel comes with delightful Scottish sea views and state-of-the-art touches like designer toiletries, bespoke hand-made sleigh beds, Nespresso machines and super-luxe fluffy bathrobes. The playful wallpaper of life’s little pleasures like books and old-school suitcases shows there are no expenses spared. The same goes with the food and wine, which is most certainly up to par. Whether you’re there for a golfing extravaganza, pampered weekend getaway or uni visit, let Hotel du Vin supply that extra dose of sparkle.
Although new to the St Andrews hotel scene in 2017, Kinnettles Hotel arrives with a stellar reputation as the sibling of the esteemed Kinnettles Castle Luxury Hotel. This 5-star boutique hotel boasts nine bespoke suites, each adorned from floor to ceiling with plush interiors, gorgeous muted metallics and oodles of finesse. The signature contemporary Scottish style found embellishing every space demonstrates a keen eye for effortless luxury, while the deluxe Eden spa, complete with ESPA products and lush amenities, is adored by those with a liking for all things lavish. To accompany the boutique splendour comes an unrivalled dining experience.
First off, there’s nothing rough about Rufflets! Located amidst 10 acres of garden grounds in a 1924 mansion, this delightful turreted hotel has all the mod cons you could ever dream of multiplied by a million! Each room is graced with its own classy essence and tasteful design prowess — think accent walls, large lay-on-me beds, plush bedding and bathrooms that lend themselves to long, decadent bubble baths. The teddy bears on each bed are a surprisingly adorable touch! Between the endless alfresco dining opportunities, lush grounds, swanky brasserie and timeless elegance, Rufflets hits the hotel spot.
The Old Station Guest House may be a B&B but that doesn’t discount its inimitable charming appeal. Between the two suites tucked away inside a converted railway carriage and fun themed rooms, this beauty of an abode is the only train you won’t want to miss! The unforgettable Scottish and full continental breakfasts, impeccable garden, practice golfing green with sand bunker and lounge library are all par for the course!
Although Fairmont St Andrews may not scream ‘traditional boutique hotel’ (if judging purely on size — it’s massive), it’s safe to say that this gem makes up for it in the style factor. From the thousands of dancing incandescent lights suspended from the foyer ceiling and the never-ending array of chic extras, to the sinfully indulgent spa and afternoon tea space, this swanky hotel is suited to those who love the finer things in life. That cliff-top eatery though!
