SPIRIT OF THE OPEN

ABOUT TOWN: The tiny, but thriving town of Tain, situated on the south shore of Dornoch Firth, is Scotland’s oldest royal burgh. Awash in dramatic history and scenic landscape, it boasts spectacular architecture with the fabulous Dunrobin castle, a great array of wildlife and a range of sporting and leisure activities The 13th century Dornoch Cathedral with spectacular stained glass windows and a fully functional organ, is also where Madonna and Guy Ritchie’s son Rocco was christened in 2000. Incidentally, the couple got married in the nearby Skibo Castle.

JOIN THE CLUB: Apart from whisky, golf is another Scottish indulgence that they claim as their invention. And the town is especially renowned for its wonderful links golf course designed by Tom Morris and many other courses within easy reach. At the 19th hole players can enjoy a dram of the famous Glenmorangie whisky produced at the local distillery. Glenmorangie is also the spirits sponsor for the British Open Championship for the second consecutive year.

STAY PUT: Painted straight out of the pages of Enid Blyton, the Glenmorangie house, overlooking the unspoilt shores of Moray Firth, is the ultimate refuge of the heritage hedonist. Here, the solitude of temporary detachment ensures a full immersion in the song, spirit and season of the Scottish Highlands. With the strains of the bagpipes for ambience, a glass of Glenmorangie for soulful conversation and farm fresh food for the seduction of the senses, the breath of the sea is the instagram fix of the day; enjoy long walks or simply curl up by a toasty log fire.