Imagine a beautiful 600-acre walled estate of woods, hills and water in the heart of Ireland – with the neoclassical Ballyfin lying at its heart. Privacy is the rule: no part of the estate is open to the public, and the secluded surroundings encourage relaxation. However, Ballyfin is not isolated: the closest railway station is five miles (9km) away in Portlaoise; Dublin city and airport are 60 miles (100 km) distant. Transport can be arranged. Service is exceptional – from the moment members of staff appear to welcome the approaching guest and whisk away the car. Polished, professional, but never stuffy, with a dash of beguiling Irish informality. Enjoy archery, shooting, walking and cycling, boating, fishing, tennis and croquet. Picnics can be delivered in the grounds; guided walks arranged in the Slieve Bloom Mountains; with golf at nearby world-class inland courses. Inside, there’s whiskey tastings; plus a mosaic-tiled 14-metre pool, a gym and a full range of spa treatments.

For more info please visit the Hotel website: https://www.ballyfin.com/Home.aspx