Crerar Golf View Hotel & Spa

The spa facilities were nice, treatment appointments were available at short notice, and they did try to fit us in for a last-minute booking. Parking was easy. Unfortunately, those were the bright spots in a very disappointing stay. My room looked onto the roof and fire exit, and it was unbearably hot with no way to adjust the temperature. The bed was probably the most uncomfortable I’ve slept in, from the pillows and mattress to the rough, scratchy sheets. The food was greasy and not what I’d expect from a spa hotel. The “dog Friendly” food was unpleasant, and only one table has a sea view. Most of the staff seemed uninterested, as though they’d rather be somewhere else. I asked if the complimentary alcoholic drink in my room could be changed for a non-alcoholic one. They said they’d need to check with someone and get back to me, but never did. I booked at very short notice, and apparently that’s why the stay disappointed, so maybe don’t book last minute if you want to come here. Even in the off season, it cost just under £300.00, for a stay and service that should have cost half that at most.

The room was cosy and comfortable, and on a night with a snow blizzard it made a good refuge. The hotel sits right by the shore. My only criticism is that the dining areas and lounges were cold. The heaters were on but didn’t warm the rooms much, and the working fireplace wasn’t lit. With a -2 blizzard and arctic blast outside, it would have been nice to have a few wines in the bar and enjoy more of the hotel. We retreated to our room instead, where it was warm enough to relax. The hotel was quite full with people sheltering from the weather. A bit more thought about guest comfort could also bring in more bar takings. Replacing some of the windows and frames would help keep the heat in and reduce power use in this very draughty hotel.

The staff were all friendly and helpful, especially the woman at reception, and the hotel is dog friendly. We had a great overnight stay at the Golf View Hotel, with a lovely room and a very comfortable bed right by the beach. The spa and swimming pool are excellent, and there’s an outdoor hot tub too. Just the thing if you fancy a quick dip in the sea! I’m sure we’ll be back soon. ❤

The only niggle was the Temple Spa box. There were three of us in one room and all paid for the spa package, but there was only one box. I’m not sure if that was a mistake, or whether there’s meant to be one per room or one per person. If two or three people share, who gets it? We all paid the same price. Aside from that, we had a fabulous two-day stay, five girlfriends from Aberdeen. We did one night with the spa package and one regular stay. The spa and treatments were lovely and clean, and the therapists were great. Food and service were lovely, especially from the young staff in the bar and restaurant. They were friendly, chatty and helpful. We’ll definitely be back.