Macdonald Cardrona Stay & Play Review

Macdonald Cardrona in the Tweed Valley boasts a very well regarded Championship Golf Course designed by the renowned architect Dave Thomas, as well as an onsite hotel and luxury spa. This true destination venue played host to Golfshake Ambassador Rob Treanor in June 2022 who was lucky enough to experience the magic and charm of the Scottish Borders.

Macdonald Cardrona stands like a lighthouse in the landscape of the dramatic Borders mountains. Oozing a timeless and understated luxurious charm, the hotel is a welcoming place to unwind and kick back from the foibles of daily life. The par 72 championship course was designed in 2001 and proof of its pedigree is reinforced by the venue hosting the 2004 & 2007 Euro Pro Tour and the European Challenge Tour in 2007 & 2008.

Accommodation

In every corner of the hotel, the eye is drawn to the spectacular, mountainous scenery which surrounds the resort on all sides. Many of the 99 light, airy and spacious bedrooms also benefit from views out onto the course and the River Tweed. The classically designed interiors use the warmth of wood and tones of tartan to give a luxurious, timeless effect.

The bathrooms are very well appointed and the inclusion of toiletries from Elemis carry the hallmark of quality. The beds are tremendously comfortable, ensuring the hotel delivers a truly relaxing experience, making it a great place to unwind and recharge.

Food & Drink

The hotel’s Renwicks Restaurant is on the first floor which makes the most of views out onto the golf course and the river Tweed; both of which are framed by the sublime mountains beyond. Locally sourced produce is found in abundance on the excellent menu and the culinary execution is on a par with the hotel’s luxurious ambience.

The lounge bar on the first floor next to the restaurant is inviting, with undertones of a grand Scottish mansion. The majestic fireplace and warm surrounding tones of the comfy seating make this an easy place to while away a few hours. The inspiring landscape of the Tweed Valley is made ever more wistful with the addition of a cocktail or a local malt from the bar.

For golfers, Spikes bar on the ground floor offers an informal space to enjoy a drink and a light bite after playing the course. This spacious area has its own well stocked bar and is a cosy setting for some after round refreshments or to watch live sport on the large, wall mounted screen.

Facilities

The large pool area is very welcoming for couples or families alike, the centrepiece of which is the generous 18 metre pool. The thermal suite offers a range of options to unwind, or simply to gaze out of the large windows to the hotel grounds and the mountains beyond.

The modern gym is kitted out with state of the art Life Fitness equipment and has both free weights and a dedicated stretching area. There is also a full range of Elemis spa treatments available in the spa’s treatment rooms for a pampering experience.

The hotel’s location just a few yards from the River Tweed benefits from some very pleasant walks along an established footpath which straddles the river. It is a short walk into the town of Peebles or the footpath takes a route through the countryside in the other direction. This is a great way to see more of the spectacular views, particularly if a member of the party is a non-golfer.

Summary

Macdonald Cardrona is a tremendously welcoming and relaxing hotel in a very unique setting. The luxurious facilities make it impossible not to unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the Tweed Valley. With a genuinely great golf course, a full complement of spa and leisure facilities as well as excellent food and drink, all of the ingredients are assembled for a fantastic break. Topped off with the superb Scottish hospitality, there are a multitude of reasons to return to this glorious and charming venue.

Everything required for a restorative break is taken care of… Cardrona will leave you longing for more.

For more information, please visit https://www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk/cardrona.