Nine hot additions to Ireland’s tourist offering
Housed in what was once home to the groomsmen of Mount Juliet Estate lies Hunters Yard, the latest addition to the luxury hotel. Just five minutes walk from the main house, expect super spacious rooms, sumptuous fabrics and all the fabulousness one would expect with the hotel proper.
Hunters Yard is mere steps from the Hound Restaurant and the hotel treatment rooms, making it an ideal retreat for those wanting luxury with privacy at a premium.
From €169 a night; www.mountjuliet.ie/hunters-yard.html
The Conrad Dublin is home to new capsule store Eirlooms. Owned by craft designer Mary Whelan, the shop is a haven for Irish-made gifts, sweets and floral arrangements, making it an ideal stop for those of us who need to buy a last-minute gift. Whelan has chosen each piece sold in the shop herself, and many of the pieces are exclusive to Eirlooms.
www.eirlooms.com
Live like royalty in the newly refurbished Princess Grace Suite at The Shelbourne. The latest in a multi-million refurbishment at the hotel, the suite is the fanciest place to stay at the world-class hotel.
The suite has two bedrooms, with an interior designed by London-based design firm Oliver Laws and features pieces chosen specifically for the space. Expect Waterford Crystal chandeliers, marble chimneypieces and antique chairs and tables along with two historical artworks, which have been re-sited from within the hotel, including a suite of prints by John Leech.
The hotel has a super luxurious package available for the Princess Grace Suite. With Champagne on arrival, unpacking and packing of luggage, butler service, lavish breakfast for all guests, complimentary return Dublin Airport transfers, and complimentary newspapers, valet parking, internet access and daily amenities, this plush package costs €7,500 per night for up to four guests.
www.theshelbourne.ie
Knockranny House Hotel in Westport has just unveiled a stylish and sophisticated makeover of its beloved La Fougère restaurant.
Designed by Wexford-based creative Emma Minish, the look and feel of the restaurant has been completely overhauled to complement the incredible views over Clew Bay and Croagh Patrick.
Head Chef Seamus Commons has been busy creating new dishes to complement the new ambience of the restaurant, and the results are worth travelling for.
www.knockrannyhousehotel.ie/
The Blue Book collection of country houses, hotels and restaurants has added four new members to its offering for 2018.
Castle Grove is a family-run Georgian house, built in 1695 and set on its own 250-acre estate at the end of a mile-long avenue on the shores of Lough Swilly.
Five star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Golf resort needs no introduction, combining luxurious accommodation with world-class dining.
Richard Corrigan’s Virginia Park Lodge in Cavan is an 18th century hunting estate set in 100 acres of beautiful countryside overlooking Lough Ramor, offering sublime food sourced locally and from the estate’s own gardens.
Newly launched for 2018, Killadangan House in Mayo offers luxurious self-catering accommodation to groups of up to 10.
www.bluebook.ie
Glamp as you have never glamped before at Dromquinna Manor in Kenmare, where a stay in one of their luxurious tents will set you back around €450 a night.
There are no leaky tent ceilings at Dromquinna — each tent has its own veranda and deck area and is fully furnished like a luxury hotel bedroom. You’ll sleep in a Wilderness Bed, which features a trunk log base, fully sprung Five-Star king size mattress, and goosedown duvet and pillows.
In the morning, staff will deliver a hamper of coffee, juice and freshly baked pastries to enjoy on your deck. Glamping at Dromquinna reopens in February, so book now to avoid disappointment.
www.dromquinnamanor.com
If you’ve done the Wild Atlantic Way and explored Ireland’s Ancient East, it’s time to investigate The Munster Vales, the latest tourism destination from Bord Failte.
Taking in the Comeragh, Knockmealdown, Galtee, Ballyhoura and Nagles mountain ranges, it’s a walker’s paradise that is ideally suited for families.
Crossing four counties, and taking in part of Ireland’s Ancient East, this destination takes in Bord Failte’s plan to get tourists to spend longer in the areas they will pass through.
The area is home to some of the country’s most historical landmarks, including The Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle and looks set to become a major draw for tourists seeking an active holiday in Ireland.
www.munstervales.com
Twelve years old this year, the G Hotel in Galway are celebrating with some fantastic offers.
Their Super Sunday package costs from €85 per person sharing including full Irish breakfast, mineral water in your room, fluffy robes which are ideal for visiting the fabulous spa and in-room TVs to access your Netflix favourites on the go.
If you feel rundown and in need of a night’s rest, then this is the package for you.
www.theghotel.ie
The Pembroke Kilkenny has launched a treat for spa-lovers who need to relax with the Rejuvenate Package.
Arrive to an early check in and enjoy afternoon tea with a glass of prosecco followed by a signature treatment in Kilkenny’s premier health and beauty salon, Mint by Pembroke Kilkenny. Post treatment; relax in your room with views over Kilkenny Castle before exploring the city that night.
The rejuvenation package starts from €290 per night.
www.pembrokekilkenny.com
