Stay-At-Home Easter Escapes

For our March/April issue, we visited?the best Irish’destinations?for an Easter weekend away?that?that don’t require a passport…

For a gathering… Ballilogue, Kilkenny

A trio of self-catering homes in Southern Kilkenny, Ballilogue estate has?been thoughtfully restored and reimagined, marrying mod cons and contemporary style with the calm, rustic charm of the traditional Irish country home vernacular. The three unique spaces – The House, The Lodge and The Loft – are available to rent individually or all together for family gatherings, small weddings, or just a weekend bolthole to enjoy with friends. Whatever your desires – whether it’s a chilled, yogic escape or a buzzy, foodie/family get-together – this authentic corner of Ireland, within the award-winning Ballilogue Estate and gardens, is a triumph on all fronts. Eoin Higgins

A kitchen in one of the Ballilogue houses

For romance? Glenlo Abbey, Galway

The hotel may not boast a state-of-the-art spa or a sprawling pool, but it has character and charm in spades. There is a comforting, cosseting vibe to the place, from the elegant old-world mood of the River Room restaurant, where breakfast is served with sweeping views of Lough Corrib, to the generous, well-appointed rooms and the elegant bar. Try the unique Pullman restaurant, which is housed in an original 1920s Orient Express train carriage. The food, crafted by chef Alan McArdle, in a teeny kitchen at the end of the carriage, is truly remarkable. This is the perfect spot to hide away from the world. Lizzie Gore-Grimes

Afternoon tea at the Pullman restaurant

For the sea? Incheydoney Lodge, Cork

Inchydoney Lodge is perfectly poised on a small peninsula that splits a sprawling blue flag beach, and every room gets a peek at the sandy shores that wrap around the hotel. By day, wrap up in the Island Spa’s relaxation room, and watch the showers pass over the bay. I recommend the invigorating Marine Body Polish. ?In the evening, enjoy a hearty?local seafood chowder in The Lounge, and?head to Lough Hyne for a tranquil kayak at dusk. Alternatively’make your way to nearby?Dunes Pub & Bistro for fish and chips and live music, where the liveliness of the room matches that of the waves crashing outside. Lauren Heskin

The view of the sea from the lodge

For city? Bullitt, Belfast

Although located in the heart of Belfast city, you could be forgiven for missing the entrance to Bullitt Hotel, which is tucked away on Church Lane. However, once through the arches, guests are greeted with a display of Jameson Barrels and once inside the lobby, unapologetic brash and bold design.?For dinner, try?the Taylor & Clay restaurant in the hotel, where you can’to watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen.?By night, the Baltic ski-themed bar fills up with guests and locals as a DJ plays music ?til the early hours. Melanie Mullan

The Bullitt Bar

?For more, pick up the March/April issue of Image Interiors & Living, on shelves now.