Mount Juliet Estate

Description:

• A private 3km (2-mile) lane wends its way beside the pastures of the Ballylinch Stud Farm to this exclusive hotel, an 18th-century manor house surrounded by 600 hectares (1,482 acres) of park. Mount Juliet is famous for its Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, and is the home of Ireland's oldest cricket club. Guests can choose between the manor house, the Hunters Yard, and the Rose Garden lodges. Rooms are individually and sumptuously decorated with mahogany antiques and designer fabrics, and lounges are full of period pieces and original art.

  The Paddocks, a cluster of 12 self-catering luxury lodges, are also available. Each has a fully equipped kitchen, and a lounge/dining room. Weekly rentals start at €2,400 for a two-bedroom lodge.

  Facilities: 3 restaurants; bar; concierge; 18-hole golf course; gym; Jacuzzi; indoor pool; room service; sauna; beauty and spa treatments; tennis courts; squash; archery; clay target shooting; riding stables; salmon and trout fishing on exclusive 2.4km (1 1/2-mile) stretch of River Nore

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010