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THE X factor, they call it. From personal experience some ladies have it. Some politicians think they have it. The French are convinced they invented it. Some cities, such as San Diego, Charleston and Sydney, have it oozing from their pores. And some golf destinations have oodles of it.
It’s that certain something that elevates them above the ordinary and we’re not talking simply exclusivity. We’re talking all-encompassing quality, a combination of factors that bring an unforgettable experience.
Such resorts are usually to be found in places far-flung and exotic. But not always. Scotland is many things to many people but exotica isn’t listed among them.
We know a Scottish resort, though, that has qualities so unique that 80 per cent of its clientele return annually, some more than once a year.
The access road gives the first clue of what’s in store. Turn off the A75, 20 miles or so beyond Dumfries, just short of the little town of Gatehouse of Fleet, and as you pass through the sign-posted gates you'll find yourself on a winding woodland track. A little further on you'll see the golf course, then the regal edifice of the Georgian manor house that is now the Cally Palace Hotel.
Just imagine the setting: the 160 acre estate is in the lee of the Galloway Hills, on the edge of the Galloway Forest that stretches for 3,000 acres. As far as the eye can see there is nothing to intrude upon nature. The serenity is all-encompassing. There can be few lovelier prospects for golfing holiday, a weekend break or a romantic retreat.
The Cally Palace, redolent of a gracious, by-gone era compliments its sublime setting without compromise. Built in 1763, it has been an hotel since 1928 and in the hands of the MacMillan family since 1981. Fastidiously refurbished in sympathy with its history, it is arguably one of Scotland's finest small hotels.
The public rooms, most with 25 foot ceilings and vast windows, are at once imposing but welcoming; the private accommodations, 56 rooms from standard to suites, are exceptional. Like the service, the cuisine is outstanding by any measure.
But although there's a dress code for dinner it's not stuffy or formal. Quite the reverse: each weekend brings a house party atmosphere of which the 65 staff are part. Most are from the nearby town of Gatehouse (population 1,200); many have worked at the hotel for at least ten years, some for most of their lives, and know most guests by name. It’s an indication of the sound management that is the key to the hotel's quality.
Warm and friendly, elegant and comfortable, the Cally Palace is perfect for couples and small groups, golfers or non-golfers. The regulars re-book as they leave, particularly for high days and holidays.
The outdoor attractions are extensive, with something for everyone: tennis, croquet, woodland walks and cycling, bird watching, trout fishing and boating on the 25 acre lake which decorates the golf course.
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