Scotland – There’s more than one kind of “birdie” you can get at Gleneagles in Scotland’s Perkshire countryside touted as one of the best golf resorts in the world. Me? I got an impressive Harris Hawk named Lima landing right on my arm as part of a fabulous falconry class with instructor Duncan Eade of their British School of Falconry. In fact, there are so many other activities for non-golfers that it was impossible to do them all during my short visit. There is indoor and outdoor tennis, horseback riding including an indoor equestrian centre, gun dog training, archery, cooking lessons, skeet shooting, biking, off-road trekking, fishing, wildlife photography lessons and even Segway tours of the lush 850 acres.

Inviting Accommodations & Eclectic Dining – Though at first glance the impressive country estate can appear somewhat stuffy in its grandeur, make no mistake it is a very warm and welcoming retreat within. They provide luxury Scottish hospitality at its best in a mix of old world and new accommodations-232 rooms and suites offerings all with modern amenities and free wi-fi throughout the resort. Those who love history will enjoy the older wing- built around 100 years ago-and those seeking more updated abodes might find the newer wing more comfortable. They also have an entire community of stand-alone luxury cottages with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for extended stays. Dining spans the gamut from uber high-end to fresh and lively market style with many unique bar/ bistro types of affairs with great fare as well. And of course, high tea is always a grand tradition there.

The Gleaneagles Golf Pedigree – There is plenty for families to do, and they have an excellent kid’s club. Romantics will have no problem finding satisfying couple’s experiences either – they have an awesome spa with an indoor/outdoor water circuit. But the real claim to fame of this spot is the golf. Royalty, superstar celebrities, and some of the world’s best players have beaten a path to its grounds to enjoy playing on their three excellent courses in the country that actually invented the sport! This five-star resort is also ideal for business with huge well-equipped centres for conventions, and nature lovers will appreciate their 20 preserved natural habitats that offer incredible hiking as well.