On the 1^st April 2010, the Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch will again open its doors and welcome visitors from all parts of the world.  This iconic hotel has been closed since 2006, but now with the backing of Grant Sword and other investors from Castle Stuart Golf Links, the newly refurbished hotel will be back in business.

The hotel overlooks the 1^st tee at Royal Dornoch and is in an ideal location for a stay in the Highlands.  Other great courses within an hour’s drive are Tain, Brora, Castle Stuart, and Nairn.  Dornoch is a great little town which also offers non-golfing activities for those who do not want to play; Dornoch Cathedral is where Madonna’s baby was christened, part of Dornoch Jail is now a lovely little gift shop, and the Glenmorangie Distillery is only a 15 minute drive.  Dornoch was also the birthplace of Donald Ross and this is where he took a lot of inspiration for many of his designs in America.  He used to work at Royal Dornoch as a green keeper before moving to the US in 1899 and you will find a plaque in his memory outside the house where he grew up in the town centre, just off of the High Street.

The scenery in the area is stunning and many visitors can enjoy long walks or drives to pass the time during the day.  You can then retire to ‘the golfer’s bar’ at the hotel for a wee dram before dinner.  Highly recommended!

For more information on touring the Glenmorangie Distillery, click here.

By Gary Sheppard.  Gary has been with PerryGolf for over 3 years and is one of our Golf Travel Specialists.