SCOTLAND’S most famous golfing hotel has been named as one of the most exclusive in the world.
The Old Course Hotel in St Andrews was the only resort from the UK named in Forbes Magazine’s World’s Most Exclusive Hotels list.
It is ranked alongside the likes of The Ritz in Paris and the Casa Palmero in Pebble Beach.
The list was chosen by a panel of luxury travel experts who rated leading hotels on their value and uniqueness.
The Old Course Hotel is instantly recognisable to golf fans due to its location on the edge of the 17th “Road Hole” green.
The 144-room hotel’s managing director Debbie Taylor said: “We are honoured to have been named as one of the most exclusive hotels in the world.
“It is testament to our dedication in achieving excellence and recognises our iconic status as the most famous golf resort in the world.
“A highly personalised service and attention-to-detail lie at the heart of the Old Course Hotel’s customer service ethos.
“Discerning world travellers are looking for an authentic experience matched with first class service – here at the Old Course Hotel we aim to create an exceptional experience resulting in a truly unique destination.”
Broadband plea
Meanwhile more Scottish hotels would win awards if they offered customers free broadband, according to Labour MSP John Park.
He believes wireless internet access should be part of the criteria for awarding hotel stars.
Chains charging for net access include Hilton, Holiday Inn and Premier Inn, while it can be accessed for free at Macdonald, Radisson SAS and Malmaison hotels.
Mr Park has written to Visit Scotland and the British Hospitality Association urging them to support his campaign.
He said: “No good hotel would consider charging guests to watch television or take a shower and I want them to think of broadband in the same way.
“I want to encourage every hotel in Scotland to offer free broadband as standard.
“This is about offering a better service to guests and making Scotland a more welcoming destination for tourists and business travellers.
“This might be difficult for small guest houses in rural areas, but it should be standard in bigger hotels.
“I believe that free internet access is a win-win for the hotels and their guests, particularly over Christmas and New Year when people who are away from home want to keep in touch with family and friends.”
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