Why go?
Adare Manor is a siren call to the adventurous. Ensconced within hundreds of rolling green acres, this grand manor sits alongside a twinkling river and a traditional village. Far from any eerie country estate, Adare exudes a vivacious, ‘fun-time’ charm, and, while steeped in history, still feels relevant. Its superb facilities have somehow woven their way into the building’s grand, historical bones. It’s the traditional, cosy honeymoon where you can gulp in plenty of fresh air on long romps through the countryside, while curling up by the fire with cocktails or cocooning yourself in the spa on your return.
Honeymoon style
For those with a weakness for picturesque, historic buildings and the great outdoors, all within the luxury narrative. Picture this: you, the newlyweds, ready to conquer the world, with the Manor as your regal basecamp, can indulge a raft of both indoor and outdoor activities – or shun the lot of them and play backgammon with several rounds of Champagne for hours on end, in the most splendid setting.
Set the scene
As you approach Adare Manor, the car crunches into a sweeping driveway surrounded by meticulously manicured gardens. The stately exterior bears down over its visitors, exuding all the Old World charm one could hope for in a rambling Irish pile. Stepping into the lobby, you’re enveloped in warmth, with plush furnishings, dark, uplit wood and a soft jazz soundtrack. The guests here are a blend of elegantly attired American sophisticates and Ireland’s well-to-do, all drawn to the allure of a bygone, most indulgent era, and Adare’s ability to gently tease this into the 21st century. The layout seamlessly guides you through elegant lounges, each with its own character, and leads to the heart of the manor, the majestic oak hall, adorned with ornate woodwork and a vast stone fireplace. Lavender wafts through the courtyards and arched windows frame a watercolour scene of lawns, oaks and rivers outside.
Rooms
Those after a blow-the-budget honeymoon should consider the Signature Suites, where they’re every whim is catered to by a fastidiuous butler. These are extravagant, classically-dressed sanctuaries for newly weds, featuring including intricate wood paneling, fancy stucco ceilings, and Georgian-era-style mahogany writing tables. Plush sofas are heavenly to fall into after long walks, as are the freestanding bath tubs, all with beautiful views. Curtains are comfortingly heavy – the lavishly thick type that block the sun and reality out until you’re ready for the day.
The more classic rooms have a captivating view of the swiftly flowing River Maigue and the golf course. A delightfully comfortable king-size bed and marble bathroom, complete with an invigorating rain shower, were thoughtfully arranged with in its 463-square-foot confines. There’s a Lord and Lady of the Manor feel to them – that little boost you’ll both want on your honeymoon, particularly somewhere as elegant as Adare.
Food and drink
The Oak Room, with its cathedral ceiling and intricately carved panelling, is the culinary epicentre of Adare Manor. In this show-stopping (though by no means fusty) setting, couples can indulge the signature tasting menu, curated by the skilled chefs showcasing the local produce with finesse. The Gallery, bathed in natural light, offers a more casual dining experience, perfect for leisurely lunches that work their way into the late afternoons. Try the seafood platter for a taste of the freshest Atlantic catches. Keep the evening going with a Maigue River Martini, a nod to the estate’s rushing river. Artefacts adorning the walls pay homage to the political illustrator, adding yet another layer of intrigue to this cockle-warming, country house bar. And finally, for a truly romantic dining experience, request a table overlooking the gardens, where the light dances across the landscape and in through the windows.
The story
Originally an ancestral home, Adare Manor packs all the excitement and intrigue of an aristocratic country pile-turned-hotel. Recent years have seen a return to its Irish roots, with the estate reverting to local ownership under the stewardship of the McManus family. This transition brings a renewed commitment to championing its Irish heritage – the very essence of Adare Manor. The manor’s story begins in the early 19th century, when the original structure was transformed into a neo-Gothic masterpiece by the Dunraven family. With its turreted towers and ivy-clad walls, it became a symbol of aristocratic grandeur. Today, Adare Manor’s meticulous restoration pays homage to its storied past, while the return to local ownership underscores a dedication to preserving its heritage for generations to come.
Family-friendly
Adare Manor is a family holiday that ticks every box, (comfort to adventure) in a fairytale castle that will make children squeal with delight. Spacious family suites provide ample room (and carpeted flooring) for tots, ensuring (you) can have a relaxing stay. The dedicated Kid’s Club places great emphasis on adventure and learning, keeping children focused but all while having heaps of fun; and fantastic babysitting services offer parents a chance to unwind. Thoughtfully-curated children’s menus cater to even the most discerning young palates. While family-friendly, the offering is still very much a luxurious one: from swimming pools to playgrounds, woodland walks to sweet little educational programs, Adare packs endless hours of fun for little ones (and, crucially, their parents).
Spa
A marriage made in heaven has begun with the introduction of the exclusive 111Skin spa at Adare Manor. Renowned and revered by celebrities worldwide, this skincare brand has garnered a legion of devotees, and it’s easy to see why – the transformative results speak for themselves. It has become the quintessential choice for achieving the coveted bridal glow.
Built upon a steadfast dedication to scientific advancement, 111Skin’s groundbreaking NAC Y2 compound remains the cornerstone of its identity. The efficacy of this science-backed approach is irrefutable, consistently delivering remarkable results. In an era where doctor-led beauty is enjoying a resurgence, 111Skin stands as the trailblazer.
Co-founded by the eminent Harley Street figure Yannis Alexandrides and his wife Eva Alexandrides, 111Skin’s clinical roots have been integral since its inception. This commitment to effectiveness and expertise seamlessly integrates into the Adare Manor spa experience, ensuring guests embark on a skincare journey that transcends trends, culminating in nothing short of radiant, healthy skin.
For a post-nuptial honeymoon glow, we recommend the 111SKIN Illuminating Rose Gold Facial at the spa. This treatment guarantees a complexion that is refreshed, radiant, and positively dewy. The signature use of Rose Gold includes a nourishing reparative cleanse, paired with a diamond-infused multi-acid rose quartz peel, promoting a smooth, supple, and soft texture while helping to diminish the appearance of pores, pigmentation, and fine lines. The experience is further enhanced by a delightful lymphatic drainage facial massage, working to lift and firm your facial contours.
Eco-friendly
Energy efficiency decisions are aplenty at Adare, with cutting-edge technologies like LED lighting and motion sensors seamlessly woven into the estate’s historic skeleton. Waste reduction and recycling programs divert substantial waste from landfills, while organic waste from the kitchen and gardens enriches the soil, completing the cycle. Water conservation is also a top priority here, and is evident in the implementation of low-flow fixtures and special rainwater harvesting systems. The estate proudly champions local, sustainable sourcing, ensuring that a significant portion of ingredients and products originate from nearby suppliers. On-site you see the magic for yourself: organic gardens flourish, providing a bounty of fresh, local produce for the Manor restaurants’ kitchens. Green cleaning products maintain a healthy indoor environment, while renewable energy sources contribute to powering the estate. Adare Manor certainly exemplifies a holistic approach to eco-friendliness, seamlessly blending luxury with responsible stewardship of the natural world.
Location
Lording over Ireland’s lush countryside, Adare Manor provides a gateway to the quaint boutiques and charming eateries of Adare town. Conveniently located near Shannon Airport, a mere hour flight from London Heathrow, guests can effortlessly transition from arrival to the warm embrace of Adare Manor’s lavish hospitality.
Rates: rom £595 per per night for a Classic Room. Rates include tax and complimentary breakfast.
For more details go to: www.adaremanor.com/
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