Finding the best of the Good Life across the pond is perhaps our greatest passion. And while the great hotels, restaurants, and historic sites found near exceptional golf courses do much of the lifting in this area, oftentimes it is the one of a kind experience off the links that proves to be the most memorable part of a golf trip to Scotland and Ireland.
For those seeking unique ways to find the Good Life on an H&B Expedition, here’s a few activities you might consider.
Make Your Own Gin
In recent years, gin has seen a renaissance of sorts thanks, in part, to a variety of new brands and creative marketing campaigns. Eager to capitalize on the newfound popularity, our friends at The Kingsbarns Distillery has added a gin making class at their facility near St. Andrews. In the class, groups of up to six learn the basics of distilling, then get to put their new skills to work by formulating their own personal recipe on a mini-still. The fruits of their labor are then bottled for later enjoyment and the recipe stored for future replenishments. One would be hard pressed to find a more delicious off the course activity in St. Andrews.
Falconry
While living like a king at Adare Manor, guests have the opportunity to experience the Sport of Kings first hand. From intimate one-on-one lessons to small group demonstrations, the experts at Adare Manor will guide you through the traditions of this most ancient and aristocratic of activities. They’ll also share many of the other residents of Adare Manor’s aviary including a variety of owls, eagles, and other majestic birds. The memory of a magnificent hawk landing on your gloved fist, with the stunning manor house, as backdrop is one you won’t soon forget.
Islay Whisky Tasting
Making the trip to Islay takes a little extra effort when compared to most destinations in Scotland, but those that do are rewarded with perhaps the best combination of golf and whisky in Scotland. After a round on the recently reimagined Machrie Golf Links, set off for an enjoyable stroll down the Three Distilleries Walk. Along the way you’ll find the Laphroaig, Lagavulin, and Ardbeg distilleries and their famous “peaty” whiskies. The H&B Concierge can even arrange for private tastings at each stop.
Mini-Highland Games
A fun and exciting way to experience Scottish culture is by attending one of the many Highland Games that take place across the country. But what if you could experience the games…as a contestant? Well, at historic Turnberry you can do just that. After a morning round on the Ailsa course, your Expedition can square off in a mini-Highland Games officiated by a kilted instructor. The games are a great way to build camaraderie and a little friendly competition amongst the group off the links. Not to mention that the Haggis Hurl is guaranteed be the talk of the club for years to come.
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