An Aberdeenshire golf course has secured the highest accolade from tourism group Visit Scotland.
Trump International Golf Links, at Menie near Balmedie, has been given the top five-star activity centre quality assurance award in recognition of its high standards.
It is the second top honour given to Donald Trump’s resort in the last 10 months, with the first awarded to the luxury 19-bedroom hotel MacLeod House and Lodge – making it just one of the two five-star hotels in the north-east.
The latest accolade was granted after Visit Scotland’s quality and tourism advisor rated the golf resort as “exceptional”, after assessing criteria such as the car park, price display, appearance of staff, cleanliness, decor, maintenance and activity experience.
Sarah Malone, executive vice president at Trump International Golf Links, said: “We are delighted that Trump International Golf Links, Scotland has been awarded five-star status.
“Our world-class facilities include one of the largest practice areas in the country, with a 22-acre driving range, extensive putting green and short game area.
“Our new clubhouse opened in June, and offers our guests – both golfers and non-golfers – a wonderful place to shop, relax and dine whilst enjoying the outstanding views over our award-winning championship golf course.
“This recognition is a testament to our dedication towards quality and service of which we are very proud.”
Philip Smith, the north-east director of Visit Scotland, said: “It is fantastic to see the golfing tourism offering in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire enhanced by Trump International Golf Links’ well-deserved achievement.
“With Scotland being the home of golf, high-quality golfing facilities are vitally important to our visitors, which is why Visit Scotland’s quality assurance ratings are so important.
“Quality assurance is about much more than just the stars on your door – it’s about the entire visitor experience, it’s about investing in your business and making it as economically sustainable and profitable as it possibly can be.”
In place for more than 25 years, Visit Scotland’s star system has grades for more than 7,000 different visitor attractions, hotels and destinations across the country.