Fairmont St Andrews Resort: Luxury Golf on the Torrance and Kittocks Courses
By MIKE BAILEY
Published Monday, August 24th, 2026
Course Summary:
- Location: St Andrews, Fife
- Golf Courses: Torrance and Kittocks
- Holes: 36 total
- Course Style: Modern links-style/coastal
- Resort Size: 520 acres
- Hotel Stay Required: No
ST ANDREWS, Fife, Scotland – For the avid golfer, a pilgrimage to the hallowed grounds of St Andrews is an essential pursuit. While the legendary Old Course and the historic links of the St Andrews Trust remain the primary draw, the region offers a wealth of exceptional fairways that extend far beyond the town’s ancient borders.
Discerning golfers have various options for their base of operations. One might choose the historic Old Course Hotel, a local B&B or instead opt for the elevated five-star indulgence of Fairmont St Andrews. This 520-acre sanctuary provides not only a super comfortable resort experience but also two world-class championship courses that command respect from any player. Reflecting on past journeys to this coastal haven, I recall that my most memorable experience on the Old Course was anchored by a stay at the Fairmont. After securing a spot on the walk-up list at dawn, I was called to the first tee of the Old Course by mid-morning. While that round was a definitive bucket-list achievement, the refined sophistication of the Fairmont – from the sumptuous dining to the rejuvenating spa – truly elevated the entire trip into something extraordinary.
The Essence of Fairmont St Andrews
Developed by American entrepreneur Don Panoz, this expansive estate is a sanctuary of pure relaxation, featuring an elegant spa, an indoor pool, and a collection of refined restaurants. The original vision was to craft a world-class destination that would complement the nearby classics. While the town’s traditional bed and breakfasts possess a certain charm, the Fairmont is the premier choice for those who accept nothing less than being thoroughly pampered.
Golf at Fairmont St Andrews
The golf at the Fairmont is equally distinguished. Though the layouts are modern, they blend into their surroundings with a natural grace, offering panoramic settings overlooking St Andrews Bay. Golfers can enjoy miles of rugged coastline and views of the Eden Estuary from fairways that hug the cliffs. These modern links-style golf courses mirror the traditions of the U.K., while providing a contemporary masterclass in conditioning and design.
The resort’s sporting pedigree began with an original design team that included the legendary Gene Sarazen and Australian great Bruce Devlin, who crafted the initial layouts in the early 2000s.
A significant investment in 2008-09 saw a major redesign led by Sam Torrance, one of Scotland’s most celebrated Ryder Cup captains and an eight-time Ryder Cupper himself. He introduced more authentic links character, incorporating traditional Scottish bunkering and intricate green complexes. The more demanding of the two layouts now bears his name, reflecting its status as a premier championship venue.
The Torrance Course
The Torrance Course, a par-72 challenge, concludes with a sequence of holes that are as treacherous as they are beautiful. The 17th stands out. It’s a risk-reward par 4 where the sea looms large on the right, demanding a precise approach to a well-guarded green. Having hosted Final Qualifying for The Open and the Hero Open, the Torrance’s quality is evident.
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The Kittocks Course
The par-72 Kittocks Course, renamed for the nearby Kittock’s Den ravine, offers a slightly more forgiving but no less spectacular journey. Its signature 15th hole is a breathtaking par 4 that bends toward the cliff edge. From the tee, the skyline of St Andrews is visible across the water, providing a postcard-perfect backdrop for one of the resort’s most memorable holes.
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Can You Play Fairmont St Andrews Without Staying?
You do not need to stay at Fairmont St Andrews to play either golf course. The Torrance and Kittocks welcome visiting golfers, making both layouts easy additions to a wider St Andrews itinerary. Tee times for both courses can be checked through GolfNow.
Beyond the Coveted Fairways
But for those who do opt to lodge at the Fairmont, there’s much more. Given the unpredictable nature of the Scottish elements, the Fairmont provides luxurious alternatives to the outdoor game. Guests can utilize state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators for practice or professional instruction. For a more casual diversion, the resort also offers Footgolf, an engaging blend of soccer and golf.
Dining at Fairmont St Andrews
For those inclined, every morning at the Fairmont can begin with a full Scottish breakfast at the Squire Restaurant, which honors Gene “the Squire” Sarazen, in a relaxed, elegant environment.
Other dining options include La Cucina, which provides an atmosphere of refined sophistication with its contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, while the St Andrews Bay Clubhouse & Grill offers exquisite dishes sourced from local land and sea, accompanied by panoramic views of the rugged coastline.
Amenities and More
For body and mind rejuvenation, the Fairmont Spa & Fitness facilities serve as a sanctuary of pure relaxation, offering a comprehensive suite of therapies including customized facials and expert massage treatments.
And finally, to ensure seamless access to the town’s attractions, a complimentary shuttle departs for downtown St Andrews regularly throughout the day and evening. This ten-minute journey allows guests to enjoy the traditional atmosphere of the town’s pubs and the Old Course (whether you play there or just check it out) before returning to their quiet, clifftop retreat.