6 miles from central Aberdeen, 5 minutes from Aberdeen Airport.

Cruden Bay: Designed by Old Tom Morris, the course opened in 1899, and is now recognised as one of Scotland's premier links courses. The course very much reflects the character of the land that it graces, and was last year ranked as the 52nd best course in the world by Golf Magazine. By modern standards Cruden Bay is not long, but the rugged landscape, combined with the prevailing wind, which tends to howl across the links, make it a genuine test for even the best golfer. This real attraction of Cruden Bay is its character; there are few golf courses that compare.

Royal Aberdeen: The championship Balgownie Links is an established tournament host, running out and back along the North Sea coastline. This is raw links golf, where golfers can expect no protection from the elements. The course has played host to the Scottish Boys Championship on numerous occasions, and its proximity to Aberdeen city centre makes it even more attractive. The course was originally designed by Robert and Archie Simpson, two brothers from Carnoustie, but has since been tinkered with by James Braid, and is now under constant revision by Donald Steel's design company. Without doubt, this is one of the finest in Scotland's north.

Given the excellent standard of Marriott hotels throughout the world, it is no mean feat that the Aberdeen branch was named UK Marriott Hotel of the Year in 2005.

With great access to both the city centre, and the international airport, the hotel is the perfect base from which to experience Aberdeenshire, the Cairngorm National Park and Royal Deeside. In addition, there are no less than 30 golf courses within driving distance, including famous tracks like Cruden Bay and Royal Aberdeen.

The well-finished rooms have everything that you would expect from a quality hotel, including air-conditioning, workspace and high-speed internet access. Guests can enjoy excellent traditional Scottish and international cuisine at Clavell's, or an informal meal at Chat's Café Bar.