In this Q&A with Steve Pike, Jules Cowan-Dewar, EVP, Marketing & Communications for The Cabot Collection, details what to expect at Cabot Highlands in Scotland.
What do you want guests to remember about their Cabot Highlands experience?
First and foremost, we hope guests create amazing memories in this magical place. Building upon the incredible legacy of Castle Stuart Golf Links, we know guests will delight in the new Cabot Highlands. In addition to playing challenging and fun rounds of golf, guests will marvel at the jaw-dropping surroundings in the Scottish Highlands. Unique local experiences, vibrant Scottish culture and exceptional service will make Cabot Highlands truly memorable.
How does Cabot Highlands fit into the Cabot culture?
Providing world-class golf and exceptional hospitality in beautiful natural landscapes is the core of our brand and Cabot Highlands is has that in spades. Real estate will be a key focus, creating a sense of community with luxury accommodations, retail, restaurants and gathering points.
How will the second golf differ in style and play from the original course?
The second course, designed by acclaimed golf course architect Tom Doak, will be an authentic links-style course. While Castle Stuart is set predominantly high above the water the bulk of the new course is set low along the coast, playing adjacent to the 400-year-old castle, meandering through the coastal dunes with the layout set to be a classic ‘out and back’ links.
Do you expect Cabot Highlands to impact tourism – golf and otherwise in the area?
Yes, we expect Cabot Highlands to provide a major boost for the economy of the Highlands. We’ve seen positive impacts on tourism with Cabot Cape Breton, and we hope Cabot Highlands will create the same opportunities for surrounding businesses and the community, anchored by world-class golf.
How important is it for Cabot to have a world-class golf destination in Scotland?
It’s fitting that our first European project is located in Scotland, widely known as the ‘home of golf.’ We are honoured to carry the original vision of the property forward and sit alongside some of the most famous courses in the world including Royal Dornoch, Nairn, Brora and Skibo Castle.
What do players like most about Castle Stuart and what do you think they will like most about the new course?
Castle Stuart is named among the top 100 courses in the world by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine and the course’s rugged natural landscape can be described as a throwback to golf as it once was. The views across the Moray Firth are breathtaking and the variety of holes, rumpled fairway contours and infinity-edged greens make for a truly incredible course. The new course will complement the Castle Stuart golf experience, appealing to all players and providing a well-rounded golf experience for visitors.
Are there plans for additional accommodations at Cabot Highlands?
Real estate and guest accommodations are a key component of Cabot Highlands. Sales are expected to begin in 2023 and will feature cottages with upscale, modern touches inspired by the Scottish countryside. When homeowners are not in residence, their homes will be available as luxury accommodations for guests.Photo Courtesy of Cabot Highlands