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Daily Record
Daily Record
Lifestyle
Lucy Farrell

The small Scottish town loved by celebs and royalty nicknamed 'Riviera in the Highlands'

Celebrities are no strangers to the finer things in life. The best food, clothing, and homes that we can only dream of - are readily available at their finger tips.

But being famous can be exhausting, which is why the elite need to have somewhere to get away from it all; to opulent resorts that offer a superior experience. And it just so happens that one of these spots can be found right here in Scotland.

Nestled in the Ochil hills of the scenic Perthshire countryside, there's a small town named Auchterarder, home to the famous Gleneagles Hotel which is a five-star playground for the rich and famous. Since opening in 1924, the historic manor has always been a haven for high class society - a place to get back to nature for some classic grouse shooting on its sprawling woodland surroundings; after enduring the polished London 'season'.

Known to the prominent as the 'Riviera in the Highlands', it sits on 850 acres of land and boasts 232 rooms, including 26 suites, with glorious views of the Ochil and Glendevon hills. To make traveling a seamless experience, Gleneagles even has its own railway station - with direct trains from London. Of course, it is only fitting that a train station for one of the most luxurious hotels would be named one of the best in the UK. It ranks in the top 14 for its picturesque setting, amenities, and top tier service.

Princess Margaret upon her arrival at Gleneagles Hotel in 1973 (Getty Images)

Guests are spoiled for choice with a selection of nine different eateries and bars located within the grounds. Here you will find Restaurant Andrew Fairlie, which was this week announced as one of the UKs top 100 restaurants and the only one in Scotland with two Michelin stars.

Squaremeal revealed its annual awards, describing it as Scotland's top restaurant with "precise, highly-assured and sophisticated cooking." The fine dining establishment offers simple yet indulgent French-inspired food in an intimate setting.

For relaxation enthusiasts, an award winning spa is a soothing retreat from every day stresses - perfect for those who need a break from the hectic affluent lifestyle. There is also top of the line pool and gym facilities for the more virtuous clientele.

But one of its biggest attractions is the world renowned PGA Centenary golf course. It is one of the top three in Scotland, having hosted both The Ryder and Solheim Cups. And if one wants to live near this golfers paradise, an £8m mansion can be purchased at "millionaires' row" - a prestigious gated community on the grounds of the resort.

US President George W. Bush speaks at the G8 summit standing in front of the Gleneagles Hotel (REUTERS)

The list of celebrity guests who have stayed at Gleneagles is long and prestigious. Some names include actors John Travolta and Sir Sean Connery, comedian Billy Connolly, many politicians such as Tony Blair and George Bush, and Wimbledon champion Andy Murray. Members of the royal family have also graced their doors. In 2014, their royal Highnesses Prince William and Kate Middleton unveiled a plaque to commemorate the hotel's 90th anniversary.

The G8 summit was held at Gleneagles in Auchterarder 2005, with eight world leaders including Prime Minister Tony Blair, US President George Bush and Russian premier Vladimir Putin meeting for the high-profile, three-day event.

And it will be no surprise to learn that this experience does not come cheap. Starting rates for a single Friday night in the 'basic' country double room, including breakfast comes to a mere £620 - with rates continuing to creep up with each suite. The most expensive is the Tower Suite, costing £2320 per night. It is not stated whether this includes breakfast.

There are also special offers and packages to cater for different experiences. If you are a golfer, you can enjoy one night in the hotel and a round of golf starting from £688 per room. The best overall deal is 'The Perfect 48', a two-night mid week stay with a 10% discount. Prices for this offer start at £515.

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