USP Not the most beautiful building in the world but a magical setting. There is much more to do than just play golf. Try, for example, fishing, falconry, tennis, and an outdoor Jacuzzi.

AMBIENCE There’s a fun and down-to-earth air about Gleneagles — it isn’t the stuck-up, elitist golfers’ paradise I’d half expected.

EXPERIENCE An 80-minute Samunprai Thai herbal heat energiser is like nothing I have ever experienced. The therapist has power in her hands and an authoritative understanding of the muscle networks in the body.

FOOD Champagne and canapés before supper sets the refined tone.

IN CROWD Not all golfaholics and American tourists, and the hotel has kids clubs.

WALLET WATCH It costs £483 per person for a spa break, which includes B&B, dinner and up to 75 minutes of treatment in The Spa. There is access to all The Club facilities which include: pools, Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath.

NEED TO KNOW The Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire, Scotland (01764 662134; www.gleneagles.com)

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