The Once-In-A-Lifetime Christmas Getaway

Every once in a while, it’s nice to let someone else host the Yuletide festivities. In the December issue, we feature the perfect Irish homes away from home that offer the ultimate Christmas stay.

Ballyfin demesne

WHAT IT OFFERS Trading in long-held family traditions of Christmas at home for a break in the sumptuous surrounds of one of the finest hotels in the world really is a no-brainer, particularly when the hotel in question is Ballyfin Demesne. Previously booked out for the festive period by the one repeat visitor and family, this year is the first one you can book to stay at the luxury Laois location. Considering how well the staff treat their guests on an average day, Christmas will surely be a holiday to cherish forever. Think world-class food, exquisite wine, and lots of personal touches along the way.

FESTIVE FRILLS The Christmas package includes every festive feature you could possibly dream of, including mulled wine, mince pies, carols, movie screenings, board games and even an enchanting horse-drawn carriage ride around the estate. You’ll be hard-pushed to find a merrier offering than this.

PLUS While the rest of the world wakes on Stephen’s Day to a tin of sweets and cold turkey sandwiches in front of the TV, Ballyfin guests can take their pick from a wide range of activities on offer, including Irish coffees in the tower and falconry on the estate. DETAILS From €1,470 per night, ballyfin.com.

For more inspiration on hotel getaways during the festive period, see the December issue of IMAGE Magazine.