Old Course Hotel has reopened its Kohler Waters Spa, following a transformative five-month renovation that positions it as Scotland's destination for contrast therapy wellness.
The Scottish Spa of the Year 2024 (named by The Times 50 Best UK Spa Guide), has emerged with revolutionary thermal facilities that celebrate 'Coorie' – the Scottish art of finding warmth, comfort and sanctuary – particularly after the therapeutic effects of cold therapy.
The fully transformed spa now features Scotland's most advanced contrast therapy experience, anchored by a stunning new KLAFS-designed snow and sauna cabin. This allows guests to retreat into enveloping warmth and comfort before experiencing the scientifically proven benefits of cold exposure. The spa's new design embraces this philosophy of sanctuary, with cosy relaxation spaces, warming thermal experiences, and intimate treatment rooms that provide the ultimate sense of refuge and restoration.
"Our spa transformation embodies both the invigorating and nurturing aspects of Scottish wellness," says Phyllis Wilkie, General Manager, Old Course Hotel. "The concept of 'Coorie' is central to our new facilities – after experiencing the powerful benefits of contrast therapy throughout their spa journey, guests can retreat into spaces designed for ultimate comfort and warmth. We're creating a sanctuary that celebrates both movement and recovery, challenge and indulgence in equal measure."
The spa's thermal suite features include an upgraded hydrotherapy suite and the UK's first Espuro Foam Experience Steam Room. These facilities work in harmony with calm relaxation areas – intimate spaces with soft furnishings, warming teas, and restorative ambience that invite guests to linger and truly unwind.
The spa's new treatment menu features premium skincare brands Omorovicza, GROUND, Margaret Dabbs and Phytomer, offering bespoke therapies. Each brand has been carefully selected not only for its exceptional efficacy but also because it shares a mutual respect for the power of nature and commitment to sustainable practices.
Building on the spa's new facilities, Old Course Hotel has partnered with renowned wellness expert Anna Deacon, author of "Taking the Plunge" and leading advocate for cold-water wellbeing, to launch an exclusive series of seasonal wellness retreats that extend the hotel’s wellbeing experiences.
The inaugural ‘Step into Summer Retreat’ launches on Saturday 2nd May 2026, featuring special guest Louise Minchin – celebrated broadcaster, endurance athlete, and author – who will join Anna Deacon for an evening of conversation and dinner. The pair will explore their personal approaches to active wellbeing. The retreat combines expert-led contrast therapy sessions using the spa's new KLAFS facilities with cold-water swimming, and mindful practices including yoga, meditation and photography, which all help to calm the mind and build a stronger connection with the inner self.
The seasonal wellness retreat series is set to continue throughout 2026, with each programme designed to align with Old Course Hotel’s ethos of active wellbeing.
‘Step into Summer Retreat’ prices start at £385 per person for a one-night stay on Saturday 2nd May 2026, based on two people sharing a room. Single-room occupancy starts at £495. Extended stay rates are available for Friday or Sunday nights from £275 (single occupancy) and £325 (double occupancy). Price includes all mentioned activities along with a spa treatment and meals.
Signature Spa Day Package – ‘Exhale’
Take time to breathe with two rejuvenating treatments: a 25-minute facial accompanied by a relaxing 25-minute massage. Afterwards, enjoy the hydrotherapy pools, unwind in the sauna, and savour a delicious lunch in the plant-forward Spa Café. Priced at £155 per person.
‘The Perfect Break’ Residential Package
Discover St Andrews with the newly reopened Kohler Waters Spa at the heart of your stay. This overnight package includes access to the transformed spa facilities, a thoughtful spa gift in your room, and a two-course seasonal dinner in the Road Hole Restaurant. Complete your experience with a full Scottish breakfast the following morning. Package starts from £485 based on two people sharing.
Available from 15th September 2025 to 31st March 2026, subject to availability. Excludes 24th December 2025 to 1st January 2026.
Guests staying at Old Course Hotel can access the spa between 8am-10am and 6pm-8pm.
Guests can book exclusive sessions in the KLAFS snow and sauna cabin, to enjoy the benefits of fire and ice, from £50 per person.
For more information about the Old Course Hotel's wellness offerings and the Kohler Waters Spa, visit:
https://www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk/spa-and-fitness/kohler-waters-spa