Timing her visit with the recent stint of glorious sunshine, Sarah Finnan was in pure relaxation mode at the beautiful Farnham Estate in Co Cavan this weekend.
WHO TO BRING? Your mam, your other half, your sister.
WHAT? Set on a beautiful 1,300-acre country estate on the outskirts of Cavan Town, Farnham Estate is one of Ireland’s most popular spa and golf destinations. A peaceful retreat from the busyness of the outside world, the interiors are a seamless blend of country charm and contemporary style, though it’s the hotel’s stunning surroundings that are the real pièce de résistance. Nestled among ancient forest, rolling meadows and pristine lakeland, this resort has it all – wonderful accommodation, tasty food and relaxing spa facilities.
WHY? The ultimate in luxury, the hotel’s entire ethos revolves around switching off. From the moment you enter the winding, driveway up to the hotel, you’re greeted by acres of rolling countryside – a backdrop that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of relaxation at one of the country’s top hotel spas.
A world of peace and serenity, the Health Spa was designed by Heinz Schletterer whose previous projects include spas at the Waldorf Astoria in New York, the Sandy Lane in Barbados and the Queen Mary cruise liner amongst others. An adult-only haven, facilities range from an indoor/outdoor infinity swimming and hydrotherapy pool with the water lapping over the outside edge to two quiet relaxation rooms, a water mint thermal suite, an amethyst salt inhalation room and a Finnish sauna amongst others.
The ESPA Fitness Inner Calm Massage will help you to find your bliss with a treatment for mind and body that uses a specially selected blend of oils designed to release tension and nourish your skin.
HIGHLIGHTS: There are many, though the gastronomical delights are first to come to mind. Under the careful tutelage of highly-acclaimed chef Philippe Farineau, the newly reopened Cedar Rooms offers guests a dining experience for the senses with a seven-course tasting menu inspired by the changing seasons. Showcasing a plethora of standout ingredients from artisan suppliers and local foragers, the menu also features a heft rotation of herbs and vegetables grown in the hotel’s gardens wherever possible.
Set in the historical old cut-stone building that once housed the estate managers who maintained the land over its 400-year history, the decor features original stone walls and exposed brickwork, softened by touches of natural wood, leaf-shaped tableware and cosy velvet banquettes.
THIS SUMMER: A staple on the Irish wedding circuit, Farnham Estate will play host to a gorgeous wedding showcase this June. Hosted by TV stylist Mandy Maher, the action will take place out on the beautiful lawns (the hotel’s dedicated outdoor civil ceremony space) and will be an afternoon of expert beauty tips and specialist wedding planning advice, finished off with an exquisite bridal fashion show. To secure your spot, please RSVP for attendance to weddings@farnhamestate.ie.
An inner calm escape at Farnham Estate is available from €229 per person sharing and includes an overnight stay, breakfast the following morning, dinner in Maxwells and a treatment in the Health Spa. To book visit www.farnhamestate.ie, call 049 437 7700 or email info@farnhamestate.ie.
Sarah Finnan was a guest of Farnham Estate.
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