LUX - April 2017 17 Belmond Royal Scotsman, Guests will be Kings of the Castle Over millions of years, a rugged and spectacular landscape has evolved, creating breath-taking scenery of mountains, glens and lochs - a natural environment with a rich history, a reputation for quality and one of the finest places to enjoy the linked pleasures of golf and whisky. What better way to enjoy this remarkable country than in the relaxed and luxurious surroundings of Belmond Royal Scotsman, the UK’s only luxury sleeper train. Departing from Edinburgh, Belmond Royal Scotsman offers journeys of one to seven- nights to explore the wild wonders and unique heritage of Scotland. Set off in luxury to discover ancient castles, glorious gardens and famous distilleries, or join one of the specialised and tailored itineraries for whisky and golf aficionados This summer Belmond Royal Scotsman is offering guests the ultimate golf vacation. This fully inclusive four-night golfing adventure, offers just 40 guests the unique chance to play with a champion golfer and take on the challenge of three of Scotland’s award- winning courses, including Royal Dornoch Golf Club and Castle Stuart Golf Links in the Highlands. Joining players on the course overlooking the Moray Firth will be Sam Torrance, an eight-time Ryder Cup veteran who famously sank the winning putt for the European team in 1985, and went on to captain the winning side in 2002. Sam will share tips as he joins guests for a round of golf at Castle Stuart before giving an insight into his career at an after-dinner gathering in the train’s Observation Car. Sam said: “Scotland is the home of golf and as a Scotsman I enjoy nothing more than playing on Scottish links. Castle Stuart is a really challenging, magnificent course, it is well laid out, requiring you to think your way round and forcing you to play a variety of shots. It is no surprise that it was chosen as the host course for the Scottish Open from 2011-13 and again in 2016.” A contemporary icon in Scotland’s rich heritage of links golf, Castle Stuart already has an illustrious history for such a young course. Designed by Mark Parsinen, who was also behind Kingsbarns Golf Links at St Andrews, and 2016 Olympics course creator Gil Hanse, it is regarded as a model for modern golf architecture, being fun, engaging and playable for every-day players of all abilities, but also a challenge for the very best. Nature bequeathed an opportunity for a links golf course to enjoy a rich landscape texture of whins, gorse and broom, heather and marram – a mosaic of rugged beauty. It is a true links experience with rumpled fairways, offering changes in lie and stance; partially revetted, natural bunkers and infinity edge greens that allow the scenery and key landmarks to be put on display. The commanding views over the Moray Firth are punctuated by eye-catching sights such as the snow- capped Ben Wyvis to the north, the Kessock Bridge that links the city of Inverness to the Black Isle to the west and, to the east, the 18th century army garrison of Fort George, built in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden. Having attracted global acclaim for its design and location, Castle Stuart’s reputation has blossomed among players and the golfing hierarchy. The course has also won environmental awards for its management of the sensitive site which is rich in wildlife and is renowned for its research on varying types of grass which are suitable for different climates. Stuart McColm, Castle Stuart’s general manager, said: “We are delighted to welcome guests from Belmond Royal Scotsman to Castle Stuart. Our reputation for providing a quality experience in a relaxed and enjoyable environment is a natural fit with this prestigious Scottish Golf Tour and we look forward to ensuring a memorable visit. “Belmond Royal Scotsman guests are used to the best so they will recognise the high standard of service we provide at Castle Stuart, both on and off the course.” Sam will join guests for two nights of the journey and it is clear it is as much a pleasure for him as it will be for them. As he says: “It is not often I get to spend time with people who love the game, whilst travelling in such style through my beautiful homeland. I am looking forward to experiencing the wonderful atmosphere and hospitality on board Belmond Royal Scotsman and it is a true luxury to be able to appreciate the scenery, with no pressure of having to make a putt!” Non-golfers will visit the historic castles of Dunrobin, Ballindalloch and Fyvie, as well as Glenmorangie distillery and Pitmedden Gardens on the Grampian Discovery itinerary. Away from the fairways and historic sites, there is plenty of downtime for guests to indulge in the hearty Scottish fare served on board and marvel at the scenery. Life on board is relaxed yet indulgent. Unwind in your luxurious private cabin, trade stories with fellow travellers in the Observation Car, dine on world-class cuisine, rich with Scottish specialities, and embark on thrilling excursions each day. Individually crafted wellbeing treatments are devoted to connecting the mind, body and soul with the natural world in the onboard Bamford Haybarn Spa. The Bamford Haybarn Spa is the first spa carriage to feature aboard Belmond’s portfolio of luxury trains and features bespoke Bamford treatments for passengers travelling on overnight rail journeys throughout Scotland and Great Britain. Whether on the train or on the fairway it will be an experience well above par. The ‘Scottish Golf Tour’ is priced from £6,183 per person and includes all table d’hôte meals, all alcoholic and other beverages, all sightseeing excursions as shown in the itinerary and accommodation on board in a twin cabin. Green fees, golf carts, lunches with house wine at all three courses are also included. Special offer for a limited time only – Book the Scottish golf tour in association with Sam Torrance on 26 June 2017 and enjoy a complimentary overnight stay at The Gleneagles Hotel, including dinner, breakfast, transfers from Edinburgh to Gleneagles and a round of golf. Your journey will then begin as you board Belmond Royal Scotsman at Gleneagles station. This offer must be booked over the phone by calling 0845 077 2222. Complimentary nights at the Gleneagles must be taken on 25 June 2017. Quote code T1GLEN when talking to our reservations team. Book by 30 April 2017. Offers cannot be combined and are only valid for new bookings. Single travellers please contact our reservations offices for availability. Offers are not applicable for parties of 12 or more. Please contact
[email protected] for group pricing. For full terms and conditions visit belmond.com/ royalscotsman For reservations or further information please contact www.belmond.com/royalscotsman For enquiries and bookings at Castle Stuart Golf Links contact http://www.castlestuartgolf.com/green-fees- booking