Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa

Rooms are split between the main Victorian building and the garden cottages. If you want that classic Palace feel and the best chance of a river or castle view, the main house is the one to request. If you're travelling with a group and prefer a bit more peace and quiet, the cottages give you a little separation while still keeping you close to the restaurant and Leisure Club.

All rooms are en-suite and include the basics you'd expect after 18 holes, including a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee facilities, radio, hairdryer and a power shower. Décor is clean and traditional rather than ultra-modern, which suits the building.

For golfers, it's worth asking the team about the practical stuff when you book, such as space to store clubs, drying options for waterproofs and early breakfast timings for those first-tee starts. Policies can vary by season and occupancy, so it's best confirmed in advance.

The Leisure Club & Spa is a real plus for a Highlands trip. A swim and a spell in the sauna or steam room does wonders if you've been hanging on in the wind all day. Access is included for all guests, though it's sensible to check at reception if you're planning to visit during busier periods.

Food-wise, Eight on the River is the main restaurant and the views over the Ness are exactly what you want at the end of the day. The menu focuses on Scottish produce, with locally sourced meat, fish and seasonal ingredients. It's a proper sit-down setting, ideal if you're looking for a more formal meal after a day's golf. In winter, the dining room feels warm and traditional. In summer, the riverside aspect makes the most of the long Highland evenings.

The Bar & Brasserie is a more casual option for lighter bites and a whisky, and it's a good spot to debrief the round without feeling like you need to dress up. It's popular with both hotel guests and locals, which gives it a bit more atmosphere than some hotel bars.

The hotel also caters well for groups. If you're organising a golf trip with friends or a society, the team can help coordinate tee times at courses across the Highlands and arrange group dining. The combination of central location, leisure facilities and flexible dining makes it a solid choice for multi-day golf breaks in the region.