THE DETAILS: Four-star hotel, set in 13,000 acres of tranquil Cavan countryside, with 18-hole golf course and world-class spa.

THE SPA: Designed by Heinz Schletterer, who also designed the spas at Sandy Lane, Barbados and the Waldorf Astoria, the vast airy spa complex overlooks the gorgeous grounds. The Water Mint Thermal suite includes an amethyst salt inhalation room (aids sleep), Kniepp Walk (eases aches and pains), snail showers (improves circulation), Finnish saunas, reflexology foot basins, gorgeous indoor and outdoor hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms and 17 treatment rooms. The signature treatment is Lavender Lullaby, €150, a full-body Balinese massage using warm lavender-infused oils, with facial and head massage. The spa has a well-managed sociable vibe with access to a fresh-air relaxation terrace as well as calm indoor spaces.

THE GOLF COURSE: The Jeff Howes-designed parkland course covers 500 acres of rolling countryside with a meandering stream and seven lakes, and some spectacularly ancient trees. Stunning. This is an undulating course – there are buggy paths throughout and a buggy is mandatory.

ROOMS: Standard and Superior bedrooms, smartly and comfortably furnished in a contemporary style, have floor-to-ceiling windows and verdant views, heavenly tranquil; Farnham is practically childfree (the fabulous outdoor pool is adults only), so the spacious bedrooms and corridors are blissfully peaceful. There are Luxury Suites in the period wing of the hotel. Beds are super-comfortable, linen is crisp and in-room amenities spot on.

DINING: The very sound, buzzy Maxwells (named for the generation of the Maxwell family who owned the estate until 2016 when Austrian investor Thomas Roeggia acquired and developed it) offers casual bistro-style dining and friendly, positive service.

VERDICT: Ideal for an easy golf and spa break. From €169 per room midweek, bed and breakfast. www.farnhamestate.com.