We all deserve some luxury and pampering this year and for inspiration look no further than Ireland’s Blue Book. This offers an impressive range of discreet, luxuriously appointed properties. Comprising country house hotels, elegant Georgian manors, stately castles, historic hotels, luxury boutique hotels and barges there is something to suit all tastes and requirements. Ireland’s Blue Book Vouchers are welcomed at all the properties.
Ballyfin Demesne, Co Laois
A stay at the impossibly glamorous Ballyfin is the sum of many parts – exploring its private grounds and parkland, with follies and grottoes – as well as enjoying the decor of its luxurious bedrooms. Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the centre of Ireland, Ballyfin is a place of history and romance, of tranquillity and great natural beauty. Decorated with Irish art and antiques from around the world, the interiors offer the same spirit of refined elegance that the early house reflected in the 1820s. Guests have at their disposal 614 acres of private parkland, a 28-acre lake, an indoor swimming pool, gym and treatment rooms as well as a range of experiences including falconry, wine and whiskey tasting, horse riding or clay shooting. Quite simply, there’s no reason to leave the hotel grounds for a truly immersive stay. www.ballyfin.com
Park Kenmare, Co Kerry
Since 1897 many global travellers have enjoyed the pleasures of Park Hotel Kenmare and its renowned restaurant. Set in a heavenly location overlooking Kenmare Bay the hotel is in the heart of Ireland’s most scenic countryside. All rooms are spacious with sitting area, antique furnishings and enjoy a full sea view or private veranda. During lockdown Park Hotel Kenmare has undergone a restoration and returning guests will see a new lobby, Cocktail Bar, Champagne Bar, and Dining Room which have an Art Deco vibe, while the new outdoor terrace maximises the views. Behind the scenes a new Morrone Srl kitchen, the first of its kind in Ireland, has been designed under the direction of Head Chef, James Coffey. Not forgetting that Park Kenmare is also home to SAMAS Deluxe Destination Spa; a visit to Park Kenmare is not complete without an indulgent treatment. www.parkkenmare.com
The Merrion Hotel, Dublin City
The Merrion, located in the heart of Georgian Dublin, is a marriage of exquisite comfort, relaxed elegance and thoughtful guest facilities. These include an 18m pool, spa and gym as well as an impressive art collection. As for gourmets, they are well catered for. The Merrion is home to the 2-star Michelin Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, The Cellar Bar, The Garden Room, and the intimate No. 23 Cocktail Bar. www.merrionhotel.com
Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate, Co Galway
The ideal location for exploring the West of Ireland – Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate, dating back to the 18th century, has 2* Rosettes from the AA, Best Private Dining with the Restaurant Association of Ireland and a 2017 Gold Medal Award for Ireland’s Fine Dining Restaurant making it a superb dining and entertainment option for both formal and informal occasions. These include the River Room Restaurant overlooking the estate, the Pullman Restaurant on The Orient Express, the Oak Cellar Bar, and three elegant Reception Rooms in the Main House which exude Old World Charm, where guests can enjoy a relaxing drink, afternoon tea, or take time out to relax and read the newspapers. With a 138-acre lakeside golf estate, its unique Championship 9 Hole Golf Course is one of the best 9 holes in the country with rolling hills, lakes and fabulous views of Lough Corrib. Other activities that can be organised include fishing, horse riding, boating, water sports and tennis with the ancient sport of royalty – falconry. www.glenloabbeyhotel.ie
Hayfield Manor, Co Cork
The five star Hayfield Manor provides the charm of a country house with all the amenities of Cork city on its doorstep. Splendid rooms and suites are classically styled and individually decorated. Guests can dine in the gourmet restaurant Orchids (overlooking the beautiful private gardens) or the contemporary dining space, Perrots Garden Bistro. The in-house Beautique Spa offers a range of specialist Elemis treatments as well as an indoor pool. www.hayfieldmanor.ie
Mount Juliet Estate, Co Kilkenny
Mount Juliet Estate is the sum of many parts: the elegant grandeur of a magnificent Georgian Manor House, coupled with the chic sophistication of Hunter’s Yard. The two residences draw on centuries of local history and provide memorable moments for every guest who stays. The estate appeals to many interests; it’s a magnet for golfers who find the Jack Nicklaus signature-designed golf course stunning. For gourmets, its Michelin-starred restaurant delights, while for families it offers a chance to unwind in a secluded sanctuary. www.mountjuliet.ie
Need to know: For further information on all of the 56 properties in the Ireland’s Blue Book collection, which also includes a number of award winning restaurants, four of whom have been awarded Michelin stars, visit www.irelandsbluebook.com.
