Cardrona sits in the rolling countryside of the Scottish Borders, approximately eight miles from Peebles. Dave Thomas designed the course, which opened in the 1990s as part of a resort development that includes hotel and spa facilities. Thomas, who worked extensively throughout Britain and Europe during his career, created a parkland layout that takes advantage of the natural terrain and mature woodland characteristic of this part of southern Scotland. The course occupies gently undulating land with a mix of open and tree-lined holes. The routing incorporates natural elevation changes and water features, including burns that come into play on several holes. Fairways move through stands of mature trees, and the design presents a variety of approach shots to greens that are typically well-bunkered. The landscape offers views across the Borders countryside, with the surrounding hills providing a scenic backdrop. As a resort course, Cardrona serves both hotel guests and visiting golfers exploring the Scottish Borders region. The area is less traveled than the traditional golf destinations along Scotland's coasts, but it offers accessible golf in a tranquil rural setting. The course provides a parkland experience distinct from the links courses found elsewhere in Scotland, and it functions as part of the broader leisure amenities at the Macdonald resort property. The layout suits golfers of varying abilities, with multiple tee options available across the holes.