An Intimate Estate Getaway, A Country House, A Grand Hotel in Edinburgh's Center and A Famous Golf Course

SCOTLAND'S HOGMANAY (NEW YEAR) USHERS IN A HOST OF

CELEBRATORY SPECIALS FROM CONNOISSEURS SCOTLAND'S RESORTS

Edinburgh, Scotland, June 2009 – In Scotland, ringing in the New Year – or Hogmanay, as it is traditionally called – is the most important holiday of the year, evolving from pagan rituals when smaller celebrations included “first-footing” (the first to cross the threshold after midnight determines the owner's luck for the coming year), traditional ceilidh dances and the more recent singing of Robert Burns' “Auld Lang Syne” into city-wide celebrations with torchlight processions, live musical performances, fireworks and more.  Whether seeking to celebrate quietly or join the ' the biggest party of the year' in Edinburgh, Connoisseurs Scotland offers a range of diverse properties from which to choose - many with holiday specials.

• Set deep within a 44-acre estate is Myres Castle, a five-star property offering “The Ultimate Christmas and New Year Hideaway” package featuring a private New Year’s celebration – complete with a Highland piper, a classic ceilidh and fireworks – fit for 12-20 people.  The special includes lodging in one of ten beautifully appointed suites, all meals – breakfast, a light lunch, afternoon tea and a five-course dinner – and exclusive use of Myres Castle’s dedicated staff and grounds, including the lavishly decorated drawing room, library, billiard room, study and cosy Victorian kitchen. Price is £395 ($646*) per person per night based on a stay of at least three nights.
• Cringletie House, a country house hotel surrounded by woodlands and gardens, offers the best of both worlds – located less than 18 miles from Edinburgh, the hotel is offering a luxurious New Year’s special, December 30 to January 1, as well as easy access to the city’s four-day festivities.  The special includes accommodations and a New Year’s Eve Gala dinner – complete with sumptuous food, flowing champagne, a live band and a piper – with prices for all three nights starting at £640 ($1,046) per person, double.  Guests can spend their free time enjoying walks in the scenic border countryside, taking a dance class, visiting historic sites or attending Edinburgh’s Hogmanay.
• Originally built in 1687 as the home of a Lord – with many of the original furnishings lavishly restored and complemented with new, opulent decorations – it is no wonder that Prestonfield is Edinburgh’s only hotel awarded five red stars by AA.  Located in the middle of the city, Prestonfield is at the center of the New Year’s hubbub and festivities, and offers its own as well – Prestonfield’s Annual Hogmanay Gala Ball, a black tie affair which sells out every year and features a decadent five-course gourmet dinner; cost is £85 ($139) per person.
• The five-star Old Course Hotel, Golf Course & Spa, famous for its innovative spa services and location overlooking the famous links courses and the breathtaking Scottish coastline, invites guests to ring in the New Year the traditional Scottish way – with their own luxurious touches. The Hogmanay Experience package includes champagne and canapés upon arrival; two or three nights in one of 144 beautifully appointed rooms; access to the Kohler Water Spa; an award-winning afternoon tea; and a champagne reception followed by a five-course Scottish Banquet, entertainment and bagpipes. Price per person, double, is £550 ($899) for two nights and £745 ($1,218) for three; children under two stay free and ages 2-16 stay for £45 ($74) per night when sharing a room with two adults.

                Connoisseurs Scotland's 23 members include four of the world's finest golf resorts including Gleneagles and Old Course, Inverlochy Castle - recently voted the best hotel in Europe, six outstanding city centre properties, Edinburgh’s only 5 Red Star hotel, a 19th-century castle health spa, a collection of intimate country house hotels, the Royal Scotsman luxury train, two exclusive use properties and three properties set in scenic coastal locations.  Four properties boast Michelin-starred restaurants.  Information on Connoisseurs Scotland, its member resorts and special offers can be found at www.luxuryscotland.co.uk. 

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