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The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle: Scotland's Exclusive Highland Sanctuary

Experience timeless Edwardian luxury and world-class golf at Scotland’s most exclusive private members’ club nestled in the breathtaking Highlands.

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Nestled in the Scottish Highlands near Dornoch, The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle is a prestigious private members’ club offering historic Edwardian luxury, a championship golf course, and a wealth of outdoor activities. With a limited membership capped at 400, the club provides an intimate retreat featuring lavish accommodation in the castle and estate lodges, fine dining with local Highland fare, and unique experiences from falconry to clay pigeon shooting amidst stunning natural beauty.

A brief summary to The Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle

  • The Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle, Dornoch, Clashmore, IV25 3RQ, GB
  • +441862894600
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 8 hours
  • Exclusive
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Membership is highly exclusive with a significant joining fee and annual subscription; prospective members must undergo a trial weekend and committee approval.
  • All-inclusive rates cover unlimited food, drinks, and activities, allowing members to enjoy a seamless luxury experience without additional bills.
  • The estate offers diverse activities beyond golf, including falconry, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, and hiking through scenic Highland landscapes.
  • Evenings often feature traditional ceilidh dancing and group singalongs, fostering a convivial and welcoming atmosphere.
  • The castle rooms are adults-only, but families can stay comfortably in the estate lodges, which offer privacy and stunning views.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Inverness Airport to Skibo Castle takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A9 and A836. Parking is available on site but limited; advanced notice is recommended. The route offers scenic Highland views but can be narrow and winding in places.

  • Public Transport

    Regular train services run from Inverness to Tain, about 30 minutes away. From Tain station, taxis to Skibo Castle take around 25 minutes. Public transport options are limited, so pre-booking taxis is advisable.

  • Helicopter

    For members with access, private helicopter transfers to the estate’s helipad provide the fastest and most exclusive arrival option, typically under 30 minutes from Inverness. Advance arrangements are essential.

The Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about The Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle

A Legacy of Grandeur and Exclusivity

The Carnegie Club at Skibo Castle stands on the grounds of a historic Scottish Baronial estate that dates back to the 13th century. Acquired by the industrialist Andrew Carnegie in 1898, the castle was transformed into a magnificent Edwardian sporting estate, reflecting Carnegie’s vision of a Highland sanctuary. Today, the club honors this heritage with painstakingly preserved interiors, including original stained-glass windows and a library of 2,500 books, evoking a timeless atmosphere of elegance and exclusivity.

Unrivaled Accommodation and Atmosphere

Members and their guests stay in one of 21 individually styled castle rooms or in one of the 12 estate lodges scattered across the 8,000-acre estate. The lodges offer private sun terraces, open fires, and panoramic views of the Dornoch Firth and surrounding hills. The castle itself exudes Edwardian splendour, with richly furnished rooms and a warm, convivial atmosphere reminiscent of an intimate house party. The club’s ethos emphasizes relaxation and camaraderie, with no business talk and lively ceilidh dancing often rounding off the day.

World-Class Golf and Outdoor Pursuits

At the heart of the estate lies the Carnegie Links, a championship golf course rated among the finest in the UK and Ireland. Members enjoy unlimited play on this private links course, which offers breathtaking views and a challenging layout requiring every club in the bag. Beyond golf, the estate provides a diverse range of activities including falconry, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, tennis on Scotland’s only French clay court, off-road driving, and hiking or biking trails through vibrant pine forests and heather moors.

Gastronomy and Leisure in Highland Splendour

Dining at the Carnegie Club is a celebration of local Highland produce, with generous meals served throughout the day. Breakfast might include freshly baked croissants or locally smoked salmon, accompanied by live organ music. The clubhouse offers a relaxed setting for lunch and champagne, while formal dinners in black tie or Highland dress are hosted by the club’s charismatic storyteller. The spa and pool pavilion, with its striking glass roof, provide a tranquil retreat for relaxation and wellness.

Membership and Experience

Membership to The Carnegie Club is highly exclusive, with a capped membership of around 400 and a rigorous application process including a trial weekend stay. Joining fees are substantial, reflecting the club’s commitment to maintaining its unique atmosphere and high standards. The club’s remote location and intimate scale ensure a peaceful, private experience where members can truly unwind and enjoy the natural beauty and rich heritage of the Scottish Highlands.

The Spirit of Skibo

The Carnegie Club is more than a luxury retreat; it is a living legacy of Andrew Carnegie’s vision of a Highland sanctuary where laughter, friendship, and relaxation thrive. The blend of historic charm, exceptional amenities, and breathtaking landscapes creates an unparalleled environment for members seeking a rarefied escape. Whether enjoying a round of ‘billionaire’s golf’, a lively ceilidh, or quiet moments by the fire, the spirit of Skibo invites you to slow down and savor life’s finest pleasures.

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