Fairmont Hotels have recently opened a new hotel in South Africa; the Fairmont Zimbali Resort joins the Fairmont Zimbali Lodge which is set nearby along the beach. The hotel’s golf course is currently under construction, but once the 18-hole course (which has been designed by Gary Player) opens, it will be a “must” to add to your schedule.
Fairmont Hotels are known worldwide for their excellent service, and we are pleased to see this addition to the group.
The Fairmont Hotel in St. Andrews is a 5* Resort on the outskirts of one of the most famous towns in the world. The hotel is situated about 2 miles outside of the town centre and offers views over St. Andrews Bay and the medieval skyline. It is also home to 2 championship golf courses; The Kittocks and The Torrance. Both courses are very enjoyable and are worthy inclusions in any schedule based in and around St. Andrews. Even if you don’t happen to be staying at The Fairmont, these courses are worth considering.
The Kittocks is sometimes overshadowed by The Torrance which has recently been renovated and is now home to the Scottish Seniors Championship as well as a final qualifying venue for the British Open. I played both courses at the tail end of last year and I found The Kittocks a slightly tougher test of golf and, from a personal point of view, I’d say I enjoyed it more. I played the course with my Dad and while it was wet underfoot and a windy climate, we both had a great day. We agreed that the course was tough but fair and we hope to get another chance to play it in the future (in drier conditions with a bit of luck). Fingers crossed I can avenge the 3 and 2 defeat!
I’d also recommend that you use a golf cart when you play as some of the walks between greens and tees are longer then usual.
Whenever I am staying in St. Andrews, I always make a point of visiting the Zizzi Restaurant for either lunch or dinner.
It is a casual setting serving excellent Italian food in four distinct sections of antipasti, salads, the mains (including pizza, pasta and risotto) and a selection of desserts, all within reasonable pricing. Having not been to any of the other outlets, I can only comment on the warm ambience and bustling atmosphere of St. Andrews’ own Zizzi Restaurant situated on South Street.
Zizzi Restaurant, St Andrews
Last summer, while staying in the Fairmont Hotel just outside of St. Andrews town, my partner and I decided to dine there of an evening…and we were not disappointed. The Bruschetta with tomatoes and basil served on toasted garlic ciabatta was so good I could of eaten another serving…but I managed to hold off for my main of Pollo Prosciutto – chicken breast wrapped in prosciutto ham and sage and cooked in white wine – amazing! Not often opting for a dessert, I changed my mind on this occasion and decided to order the Chocolate Melt and only stopped eating when I realised I couldn’t possibly make room for anything else. All of this was offered with the accompaniment of a great wine list. I should mention that there really is a great choice of food and drink on the menu and I’m sure that there is something for everyone there.
