Five-Star Braemore Luxury Apartments Joins Connoisseurs Scotland

Those seeking an elegant alternative to hotel accommodations will find this and much more with Connoisseurs Scotland’s newest addition, Braemore Apartments. The collection of self-catering properties (chefs are available) in Edinburgh’s historic New Town provides guests a luxurious experience with the freedom and comfort of home. The stylish apartments – each a unique blend of Georgian architecture and contemporary design – offer the privacy of an exclusive-use property with the luxury and service of a five-star hotel, where professional staff can create a tailor-made stay for each guest.

Although carefully restored to preserve their traditional grandeur, the apartments are outfitted with a multitude of modern amenities: power showers, Sky television, wireless internet access, DVD players, iPod docking stations, fully equipped kitchens and fully integrated music system controllable from every room. The prime location of the properties provides guests with easy access to all Edinburgh has to offer, from historical attractions and world-class theatres to stylish boutiques, fine dining – including seven Michelin-starred restaurants – and a vibrant nightlife.

A dedicated staff and knowledgeable concierge ensures no detail is overlooked, whether it is a bottle of champagne upon arrival and a chef to cook meals or the arrangement of airport transfers, beauty treatments and tickets for the theatre, concerts and other events. Golf aficionados can head off to test their skills on some of Scotland’s championship courses – from Turnberry in the west to Domoch in the north and St. Andrews in the east. Braemore’s golf specialist, whose possesses extensive knowledge of the golfing landscape, can make the arrangements as well as suggest several nearby distilleries, an important aspect of the post-golf routine. More information, including pricing and availability, can be found at www.braemoreshortlets.co.uk.

Connoisseurs Scotland’s 25 members encompass four of the world’s finest golf resorts, including Gleneagles, Turnberry and Old Course; Inverlochy Castle, voted the best hotel in Europe several times over; seven outstanding city center properties including Prestonfield, Edinburgh’s only 5 Red Star hotel; a 19th-century castle health spa; a collection of intimate country house hotels; the Royal Scotsman luxury train; an exclusive use property; and three properties set in scenic coastal locations. Five properties boast Michelin-starred restaurants. Information on Connoisseurs Scotland, its member resorts and special offers can be found at www.luxuryscotland.co.uk.

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Connoisseurs Scotland’s Turnberry Resort Offers Special Winter Holiday Stays

Whether you are seeking a vibrant, fun-filled celebration or a private getaway for Christmas and New Year’s, Connoisseurs Scotland’s Turnberry Resort makes for the perfect family destination. The 5 Red Star resort, normally closed during the holiday season, is opening its doors to offer guests an 8-night “Festive Experience” featuring a full program of activities for young and old, lasting from Christmas Eve to New Year’s Day, and accommodation in one of the hotel’s 150 stylish guest rooms. Those preferring a more private affair can choose a 7-night self-catered holiday in one of the eight fully-equipped Lands of Turnberry Apartments. Guests choosing either package can relax with ESPA spa treatments, enjoy adventurous outdoor activities such as off-roading and clay pigeon shooting, dine in the renowned 1906 restaurant or simply take in the stunning views of Ailsa Craig and the snow-capped mountains of Arran afforded by Turnberry’s location overlooking the Ayrshire Coast.

The eight-night “Festive Celebration” kicks off with a night of Christmas Eve activities: carols and mulled wine around the grand piano, a three-course dinner in 1906 and an optional midnight service with mince pies and hot chocolate upon your return. Guests awake to personalized stockings and a hearty Scottish breakfast on Christmas morning, followed later in the day by a champagne reception, Christmas lunch, showing of the Queen’s Speech and an evening buffet and quiet drinks. Boxing Day features a drinks reception followed by a gala dinner with at-table entertainment, a live band and dancing. The centrepiece of the holiday is Hogmanay, where a champagne reception precedes a black-tie celebration featuring a lavish five-course meal – prepared by Head Chef Justin Galea and his award-winning team – dancing, live ceilidh music and traditional Scottish activities. Children enjoy a Young Explorers’ Club with face painting, games and arts & crafts; Hogmanay Party with music, dancing, food, drinks and games; and a sleepover service until 3am on New Year’s Eve. Pricing is £2,615* ($4,089) per classic room, double occupancy, for an eight-night stay between Dec. 24 and Jan. 1 and includes a full program of meals and entertainment.

For a more intimate holiday, Lands of Turnberry offers a range of two to six bedroom self-catering apartments that offer the privacy of home with the benefit of having luxury resort amenities within walking distance. Each of the eight apartments have spacious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, fully-equipped kitchen and dining area, large living room with fireplace, TV with Freeview and DVD, WiFi and washing machines. Visitors enjoy VIP access to Turnberry’s collection of championship golf courses and unlimited use of the spa facilities: swimming pool, sauna, steam room and relaxation lounges. Aside from the amenities offered by the hotel year round, guests staying in the private apartments during the holiday season will also have the option of participating in any of the hotel’s celebrations – such as the gala events on Boxing Day or the black-tie dinner on Hogmanay – on an a la carte basis. Pricing for a seven-night stay starts at £995 ($1,556) for a two bedroom apartment, based on up to six occupants, and includes full Scottish breakfast daily. Additional bedrooms can be added to the apartment for a rate of £385 ($602) per bedroom for the seven-night stay.

Connoisseurs Scotland’s 23 members include three of the world’s finest golf resorts, Gleneagles, Turnberry and Old Course; Inverlochy Castle, recently voted the best hotel in Europe; several outstanding city centre properties including Prestonfield, one of only two 5 Red Star Hotels in Edinburgh, and the recently refurbished Sheraton Grand; a 19th-century castle health spa; a collection of intimate country house hotels; the ultimate luxury train; the finest hotel afloat and an exclusive use property. Five of the members boast Michelin-starred restaurants.

For iInformation on Connoisseurs Scotland, its member resorts, partners and special offers visit www.luxuryscotland.co.uk.

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www.examiner.com/eclectic-travel-in-national/karen-rubin

Scotland Launches Year of Events, Festivals, Activities Highlighting Active, Adventurous Destination

Scotland has launched a year of exciting activities and events with the announcement of Active Scotland. The year-long program of events, festivals, and activities will outline Scotland as a must-visit active and adventure destination and showcase the best of Scotland to the world.

Active Scotland builds upon on the success of Homecoming 2009
and the Year of Food and Drink – which runs until May 2011, in showcasing Scotland around a common theme.

On January 1, visitors and Scots came together to signal the start of Active Scotland at the Scottish capital’s famous One o’ Clock run – a fun run or walk from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Park and part of Edinburgh’s famous Hogmanay celebrations.

Jim Mather, Scottish Government Tourism Minister, said: “Our diverse and beautiful landscape makes Scotland a fantastic destination to be active, whether you are visiting or you live here – and spotlighting this incredible selling point makes perfect sense.

“Through the Year of Active Scotland in 2011, the tourism industry will work together to promote the vast range of activities Scotland has to offer. From gentle coastal walks to long-distance treks through challenging terrain, open canoeing on a tranquil loch to the thrill of white-water rafting down a fast flowing river, or the fun of a family bike ride to the rush of mountain biking through forests – Active Scotland has something to offer those of all ages and abilities.

“Through Active Scotland we are aiming to sustain the momentum of the Year of Food and Drink. There are obvious links between eating delicious, healthy food and drink and being active – and we intend to exploit these opportunities as these two focus years overlap.”

Active Scotland appeals to everyone, from gentle walkers to adrenaline junkies. Moreover, Scotland’s diverse landscapes and cities make a fantastic destination in which to be active, while a growing reputation for adventure sports has put Scotland on the map as Europe’s Adventure Capital.

Scotland offer endless opportunities for adventure, from snowboarding and ice climbing in the mountains to canyoning in the water, and from skiing in the Cairngorms to mountain biking in the Borders, Dumfries and Galloway, and Fort William, visitors are spoilt for choice. Not forgetting that visitors can get out and about in the Home of Golf, with over 550 golf courses throughout the country.

Whatever your choice of activity, Scotland is a fantastic visitor destination all year round, with activity experiences for all levels of ability, all within easy reach of major hubs and cities.

Scotland has a wide range of active and adventure-based activities taking place throughout 2011, the Year of Active Scotland, from much watched spectator events such as St. Andrews Golf Week and the Johnnie Walker Golf Championship, to Rugby events, the Mountain Bike World Cup, and Highland Games throughout the length and breadth of the country. Here are just some of Scotland’s active and adventure events for 2011.

MELROSE SEVENS
April 9
Scottish Borders
Rugby 7s was founded in Melrose in 1883. The game of rugby 7s is now played on an international stage from Hong Kong to Scotland and is testimony to its founder in the Scottish Borders town, Ned Haig. 2011 is the 128th playing of the Melrose Sevens and it is proposed to continue an extended tournament with guest teams coming from far and near.
Tel: +44 (0)1896 822993
www.melrose7s.com

ST. ANDREWS GOLF WEEK
April 10 – 16
St. Andrews
The St. Andrews Golf Week is an annual event for amateur golfers and is held in St. Andrews – The Home of Golf. The St. Andrews Golf Week was established in 1974 and continues to attract golfers from all over the world. In 2010, there were golfers from fourteen different countries including USA, Japan, Switzerland, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Netherlands, Scotland, Germany, Norway, India, Ireland, Singapore, France, and England.
www.standrewsgolfweek.com

O’NEILL COLD WATER CLASSIC SCOTLAND
April 29 – May 6
Thurso, Northern Highlands
Lying at 59 degrees north, Thurso is the most northern wave spot on the planet to host a professional surfing event, with waves which on their day can rival the north shore of Hawaii. With its inspired mobile format, the Coldwater Classic Scotland is free to choose between Scotland’s prime surfing venue and the fast reef break of Thurso East, the shallow hollow at The Bowl of Brim’s Ness, and the classic beach break of Strathy.
www.ONeill.com

THE SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL
May 1 – 10
Speyside, Aberdeenshire
The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2009. Held each year during the first long weekend in May, the festival creates an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a visit to Speyside before the start of the main tourism season. The festival invites visitors to celebrate Scotland’s national drink through an inventive and wide-ranging program of whisky-inspired events, some educational, all of them fun. There are unique tours and tastings, many at distilleries not normally open to visitors, opportunities to meet whisky experts, matching food and whisky events, a local food fair, master classes and lectures, wildlife walks with whisky treats, art and craft, mountain biking tours, family fun days, and many more entertaining events.
www.spiritofspeyside.co.uk

THE DRAMBUIE PURSUIT
May
Highlands
The Drambuie Pursuit has always been an amazing experience. An epic journey for strong minds, wills and bodies. Just as Bonnie Prince Charlie inspired an army, changed history, and nailed the impossible because of something he truly believed in – we now want you to run in his footsteps for a cause that you hold dear. The Drambuie Pursuit is a once-in-a-lifetime, energy-charged adventure challenge across the Scottish Highlands, starting on the Isle of Skye and ending in Inverness. En route, you’ll compete in an array of exciting mental and physical challenges, including white-water rafting, abseiling, mountain biking, and kayaking.
www.drambuie.co.uk

HIGHLAND GAMES
May – September
Throughout Scotland
Around 100 Highland games and gatherings take place in Scotland each year. Each one has a mix of piping, athletic events, and Highland dancing.
www.visitscotland.com

EMIRATES AIRLINES EDINBURGH RUGBY SEVENS
May 28 – 29
Murrayfield, Edinburgh
The Emirates Airline Edinburgh Sevens is a rugby union sevens tournament, part of the IRB Sevens World Series, held at Murrayfield in Edinburgh. It has the honour of being the last event in each season’s IRB Sevens.
http://www.edinburgh7s.com

ANGUS GLENS WALKING FESTIVAL
June 2 – 5
Angus
The Angus Glens Walking Festival is a walking opportunity which will open your eyes, stimulate your senses, and reveal to you many of the hidden treasures of this enigmatic part of Scotland. The award winning 4-day festival is now engraved in the very fabric of Scotland’s outdoor activities calendar. Each year the festival includes evening entertainment, as well as walks to suit all tastes and abilities. Experienced mountain leaders, guide groups, countryside rangers, and estate managers support the walkers’ experience with their knowledge of local history, wildlife and farming.
Tel: +44 (0)1307 473168
www.angusahead.com/walkingfestival

UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD CUP
June 4 – 5
Fort William
A stunning celebration of two-wheeled action in the Highlands. The Fort William World Cup is one of 9 events taking place in Europe, Canada, and USA, from April to September. At a World Cup, riders can compete as individuals, for factory teams or for their National Teams, and there are few restrictions on entry other than a minimum standard of UCI points. Although the Olympics (XCO only) and the World Championships medals are the best recognized titles in mountain biking, they are both one-off competitions, whereas the World Cup overall title is the best reflection of performance over a range of different courses through the season.
T: +44 (0)131 555 3820
www.fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk

ROYAL HIGHLAND SHOW
June 23 – 26
Edinburgh
The Royal Highland Show is held by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland, founded in 1784 to promote the regeneration of rural Scotland. Occupying almost a three-hundred-acre site right next to Edinburgh Airport on the western fringe of Scotland’s Capital City, the event is an annual “must” for the major herds, flocks, and studs across the UK, as well as being firmly in the calendar of a huge variety of businesses, which take trade stands to promote and sell their products. The 170th Royal Highland Show in 2010 attracted 187,600 visitors over 4 days making it an all time record for the event and ensuring it continues to be one of the UK’s top agricultural shows and Scotland’s leading international agricultural event.
T: +44 (0)131 335 6200
www.royalhighlandshow.org

BARCLAYS SCOTTISH OPEN
July 7 – 10
Loch Lomond
The Scottish Open has been played at Loch Lomond since 1996, just two years after the course was opened. In that short time, the tournament and the venue have grown in stature, with brilliant notices from the world’s best golfers, to become a highlight of the European Tour. The course nestles in 660 acres of the Clan Colquhoun Estate and is surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the mountains and loch. The course is criss-crossed by streams, awash with marshes and cloaked in fabulous mature trees.
T: +44 (0)141 887 2992
www.barclaysscottishopen.co.uk

JOHNNIE WALKER CHAMPIONSHIP 2011
August
Gleneagles, Perthshire
Diageo is proud to be the host and sponsor of the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles on its 11th anniversary. Held over The PGA Centenary Course, venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup, this is one of the leading events on The PGA European Tour International Schedule of Events and will welcome some of the best golfers in the world to one of the most beautiful places in the world.
http://www.johnniewalkerchampionship.com

COWAL HIGHLAND GATHERING
August 25 – 27
Dunoon, Argyll
The biggest highland games in the world, the Cowal Highland Gathering has all the traditional elements of a highland games. The Highland dancing competitions and the heavy events are always the crowd pleasers, especially tossing the caber! But is also a great family day out with lots of other entertainment on offer, including a food fair, with a focus on Argyll speciality produce.
Tel: +44 (0)1369 703206
www.cowalgathering.com

BRAEMAR GATHERING
September 3
Royal Deeside, Aberdeenshire
Each year the village of Braemar in Royal Deeside, Scotland, invites people from all over the world “to come over the hills” to attend the Braemar Gathering and Highland Games. The gathering is always held on the first Saturday in September, and it is perhaps the most famous Highland Games anywhere. It features the finest Pipe Bands, pipers, Highland dancers, and athletes in a beautiful setting surrounded by hills. The patron of the gathering is Her Majesty the Queen. The Braemar Gathering has been regularly attended by members of the Royal Family since Queen Victoria first attended in 1848. Indeed, King Malcolm Canmore held games nearby almost 1,000 years ago so there is a long “pedigree.”
Tel: +44 (0)1339 755377
www.braemargathering.org

TIREE WAVE CLASSIC
October
Inner Hebrides
2010 marks the 24th anniversary of the Tiree Wave Classic – a festival which attracts top windsurfers from all over the world. The backdrop on the remote island of Tiree also pulls in photographers and film crews to capture stunning shots. The festival also incorporates an Event Village giving visitors the chance to try out new activities and hone their skills.
http://www.tireewaveclassic.org

www.visitscotland.com