Old World Irish Charm at Adare Manor

Completed in 1860, Ireland’s most historically renowned five-star resort hotel overlooks 840 acres which includes the tranquil River Maigue, stretches of finely trimmed grass and ornate shrubbery. Surrounded by medieval ruins, walled gardens and winding woodland paths, the Adare Manor was designed as a ‘Calendar House’ to feature 52 chimneys, exactly 365 leaded glass windows and several other elements to represent the 12 months and four seasons of a calendar year. It took some 30 years to finish this Irish gem, and over the years it would go through multiple restorations and expansions to include a new River Wing, an indoor swimming pool and an 18-hole championship golf course.

The manor underwent another renovation for improvement and expansion of its stellar persona with groundbreaking additions. These include a new state-of-the-art spa, a 42-bedroom wing, an expansive ballroom, and a luxury cinema. The most grandiose project is the renovation of the manor’s award-winning golf course. The immaculate golf course — the same course that Tiger Woods and Darren Clarke have competed on — had the pleasure of being revamped by world-renowned golf architect Tom Fazio and his team. Fazio has designed more than 120 courses and has more courses ranked among the top 100 in the U.S. than anyone else in the business. Every green and tee has been rebuilt and redesigned from scratch, while every bunker is being replaced with the latest Capillary Concrete liner drainage technology. With golf returning at Adare Manor, guests will have the pleasure of visiting the brand-new clubhouse that features a fully stocked pro shop, world-class locker rooms and a dedicated membership office. The Carriage House Restaurant will ensure there’s always a refreshing pint of Guinness and  warm Irish stew awaiting members and guests as they close out the 18th hole.

Adare Manor’s beautiful estate includes walled gardens, walking trails and pristine parklands. This magical backdrop offers a huge range of exciting on-site activities that gives one the chance to become fully immersed in the scenic Irish countryside. Guests can indulge in walking and running trails, fishing on the River Maigue, clay pigeon shooting, archery and even falconry. After a long day of activities, fatigue can easily be warded off by taking advantage of the elegant indoor heated pool as well as spa treatments. Guests can also pamper themselves in the manicure and pedicure room, a bright, luminescent room with various cosmetic products shelved on top of fine marble tables. Hidden away, there is the Tack Room cellar bar that is normally filled with the gentle notes of the finest local musicians, the friendly chatter of fellow residents and the clinking of glasses. A wide selection of drinks and cigars are available to enjoy by the stone fireplace.

Within the manor there are two laudable restaurants — the Oakroom Restaurant and the Carriage House Restaurant. With the renovation, the Oakroom will set the standard for culinary excellence in exceptional surroundings, featuring intimate, candlelit dinners that overlook the River Maigue. Guests can delight themselves with afternoon tea, a special 185-year-old tradition that serves delectable sandwiches, piping hot tea and savory, hand-made desserts, all presented to perfection by a team of dedicated waiters. The manor is also within 30 minutes’ drive of several world-famous sights and attractions such as the medieval King John’s Castle, the Hunt Museum, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Best of all, Ireland’s most visited natural attraction, the Cliffs of Moher, is just 90 minutes from the manor.

The Adare Manor is expected to reopen in autumn 2017, with every facet of the cherished establishment being lovingly reimagined. Limits are being pushed and experiences are being enriched.