Gift inspiration from “The Real Capital” …
Having just been in Cork for our exclusive Creed fragrance masterclass, I’m already planning a return – ideally to do some Christmas shopping as there are lots of glossy gift guide ideas. Here are some of my favourites …
Next on my list is The Republic of Oud, Alan Coakley’s specialist perfume boutique in Winthrop Arcade, handily near the English Market where The Farmgate Café is one of my all-time favourite spots for coffee.
I’ll be booking in to explore a host of interesting oud-centred scent brands that you won’t find anywhere else. Coakley worked as an engineer in the Middle East for 20 years where he developed a passion for oud, a resinous oil extracted from the Aquilaria tree in south Asia. A consultation with him is the best way to learn about this rare ingredient – known as “liquid gold” – and try out scents by brands such as Sora Dora and Monreale, exclusive to this store. Gift ideas include this stylish and unique Rosewood room spray (€55).
SEE MORE: An Educational Perfume Experience And 5 New Seasonal Scents
New into Republic of Oud this month is London brand Electimuss, founded in 2015, whose beautiful bottles really stand out. The Discovery Set features 20 samples (€115) and is an excellent way to sample the brand’s powerful potions, from leathery Gladiator Oud to Caspian Cherry.
Make a beeline to Samui, with its fabulous collection of Simone Rocha, Jil Sander and Vince, including these deadly Rocha padlock earrings (€340).
Samui’s signature room spray, a fresh fig, is beautifully presented in a glass bottle (€60). And they also stock the stylish Aesop bath and skincare range. Everything here is in the best possible taste.
Finally, head to Unbound on Bridge Street to shop their great collection of pens, notebooks and diaries – Kaweco fountain pens are stylish, trusty and under €30, while these coloured inks by Ferris Wheel Press are €26.
Stretch to an overnight stay at Hayfield Manor, or simply book in for Ground Wellbeing treatments (from €130) in its Boutique Spa. Try the decadent 90-minute CÚRAM & FOLLÁINE treatment (€175), exclusive to this hotel. There’s a 20-metre pool plus an outdoor hot tub, and there are day and overnight packages available; the Elemis hour of treatments plus afternoon tea is especially appealing. Elemis founder Noella Gabriel is from Cork, so it’s particularly resonant to induce in the brand’s beautiful skincare here.
I stayed in a third-floor suite and loved its expanse (it’s as big as an entire apartment), especially the egg-shaped bath that fills in minutes. Staff is wonderfully warm and friendly, and the breakfast has an entire room to itself: get up early! The hotel is perfectly placed for a trip into Cork, in a very peaceful spot that’s not far from the centre, with parking available.
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