Give the gift of an experience unlike any other
The only thing more stressful than organising a wedding, as every guest knows, is dreaming up a gift that will delight the bride and groom.
In preparation for the upcoming nuptials, perhaps you've made a list already and nothing seems right – or, even worse, maybe everything on the wedding register has already been claimed.
So, what better way to congratulate the newly married couple than to gift them an unforgettable - and truly relaxing - experience?
That's precisely why an Original Irish Hotels voucher is the perfect wedding gift. From glorious luxury getaways to revitalising spa resorts and spectacular castles with romantic walkways, it makes for the most splendid way to help them relax and unwind after the happy chaos of the wedding. Here's why:
Put the focus back on themselves
Let's face it: weddings are usually more about the guests' experience than the happy couple's. With seating plans, accommodation, and meals to think about, it's easy to imagine that the last thing on the newlyweds' minds is indulging their own particular interests.
But if history and golf are among their hobbies, then the Slieve Russel Hotel will be a match made in heaven. Slieve Russell is one of only 8 designated PGA National resorts in the world with its highly acclaimed 18-hole championship course. It regularly hosts exciting tournaments, and is unrivalled in both beauty and playing quality. Nestled amidst 300 acres of parkland and 50 acres of lake, this retreat promises to leave them absolutely mesmerised.
Image Above: Slieve Russell Hotel
Meanwhile, in the tranquil County Cavan countryside in which it resides, the historic landmark Cloughoughter Castle is a must-see. A fairytale circular castle on its own tiny island on Loch Oughter, its rough-hewn walls are shaped by time and cannon shot and are sure to capture the imagination of any adventurer, historian, artist, or loved up newly-wed!
Image Above: Cloughoughter Castle
Truly indulge in once-in-a-lifetime luxury
What's better after a hectic event than letting go of all that stress at once and indulging in a little opulence?
You only live once, and the elegant destination of Randles Hotel, located in the very heart of Killarney, is truly the embodiment of joyful excess with a range of gourmet dining options to suit any taste.
Seafood is a specialty here–and all couples, new or experienced, know about the romantic overtones attached to oysters. After an indulgent feast fresh from the ocean, the Wiggs Bar & Restaurant offers a sun-drenched conservatory setting that's perfect for relaxing with a pint from nearby Killarney Brewery Company.
Meanwhile, if your special couple can't resist an elegant afternoon tea, the Drawing Room offers a selection of pastries and sandwiches to be devoured, made all the more delicious in each others' company! Afterward, they may take a luxurious skin treatment at Zen Day Spa, which uses only naturally pure products for ladies and gents, to treat the outside as well as the inside.
Image Above: Randles Hotel
And of course, if they fancy a little adventure, the town promises to leave them spoilt for choice. From enchanting islands to verdant valleys, Killarney is truly a nature lover's paradise. Cascading down a rugged mountainous terrain, the majestic Torc Waterfall is the perfect spot for a romantic stroll. Killarney National Park with its abundance of mature woodland, flora, and fauna is an idyllic haven of natural wonders.
Image Above: Torc Waterfall
Create lifelong memories together
Set on 100 acres of mature woodland in County Mayo, the incredible Mount Falcon Estate is perfect for a quick getaway with close proximity to the Wild Atlantic Way. For the adventurous, outdoorsy, can't-sit-still couple, this is the one you need.
Not only does the resort boast luxurious accommodation and award-winning food, they will be spoilt for choice when it comes to activities. They can learn how to fish from resident experts on the estate's own lake. Or, if they're experienced at the sport, a private stretch of the River Moy offers a chance to net the elusive wild Atlantic Salmon.
Furthermore, the hotel's raptor namesakes are available for a unique full-day hunting experience with birds of prey, hunting dogs, and experienced falconers. Archery and clay shooting is also available, as is a 9-bay golf driving range, forest trails for walks and cycles, a kitchen garden–we could go on...
After jam-packed days outdoors, your special couple will be glad to soothe their aching muscles in the luxurious spa, which offers a 17m heated pool projecting into the surrounding woodland. Outdoor yoga and sound baths complete a program of ultimate relaxation.
Image Above: Mount Falcon Estate & Spa
Enjoy romantic escapism
In its magnificent medieval setting, Kilronan Castle Estate has been lovingly transformed from the ancestral home of a royal family, nestled among forty acres of lush green estate. Here, your special couple can extend the fairytale wedding experience and feel like royalty.
The hotel truly is a spectacular sight to behold, with vine-strewn stone walls concealing a treasure trove of treats waiting to be enjoyed. Elegant pillars and golden arches pave the way toward fine dining featuring the best local produce, opulent rooms with four poster beds, and a heated indoor swimming pool with thermal suites that promise to enliven your senses.
Of course, there are also the cucumber sandwiches and Earl Grey afternoon teas, and fine evening dining from an award-winning kitchen to enjoy. Not to mention the cafe situated in the tunnels once used as a metalworking forge! There's so much to explore and enjoy, Kilronan makes the perfect getaway for any couple, young or old–as long as they're in love.
Image Above: Bridal Suite at Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa
Explore new surroundings
A visit to Westport and Knockranny House makes the perfect "minimoon" destination for couples in Mayo. No matter if this is a staycation or at the end of a long journey, they can take in views of the mighty Atlantic in all its glory as the sun sets over its rugged coast.
From taking a boat around Clew Bay to bike riding on the greenway and exploring the West Atlantic Way, they'll find plenty of novel ways to experience the unique landscape in the town of Westport. There's even sea trampolining, kayaking, and surfing for the truly adventurous newlyweds.
In the evening, they'll find plenty of opportunities to unwind with award-winning dining in La Fougere with its romantic setting overlooking Croagh Patrick. And at Spa Salveo, they can discover dry floatation and the serail mud chamber for decadent relaxation.
No matter which of our exclusive resorts you choose, a spa voucher from Original Irish Hotels makes the perfect gift for your favourite newlyweds.
Image Above: Vitality pool at Knockranny House Hotel
ABOUT ORIGINAL IRISH HOTELS
Original Irish Hotels are a collection of unique, owner-run hotels, located in Ireland’s most outstanding destinations. Open the door to the magic of unmissable moments with Ireland’s leading collection of independent hotels.
Our 55 hotels are dotted around the entire island of Ireland in must-see locations, from the Wild Atlantic Way, to Ireland’s Ancient East, the Causeway Coast, Dublin and the treasured heartland of Ireland’s midlands and lakelands.
Irrespective of where our hotels are, Original Irish Hotels pride themselves in hosting a unique and truly memorable experience for our guests, and soon to be friends. The collection is made up of a range of traditional and boutique hotels, castles, manor and country houses, all run by locals, ensuring a unique experience every time.