CORK INTERNATIONAL HOTEL TEAMS UP WITH LOCAL ATTRACTIONS TO ENHANCE FAMILY STAYS

press releases Spring24

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CORK INTERNATIONAL HOTEL TEAMS UP WITH 

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS TO ENHANCE FAMILY STAYS

Edel Kavanagh, Deputy General Manager and Michael Murphy, Trainee Manager relaunch the popular Family Concierge Service at the Cork International Hotel. Pic: Brian Lougheed

 

The Cork International Hotel is boosting its family experiences with links to local attractions including Fota Wildlife Park and Leahy’s Open Farm. The hotel, which is located close to Cork Airport, has also relaunched the popular Family Concierge Service to ensure families get the most out of their stay.

 

The Family Concierge Team

ENJOY THE HAZY DAYS OF SUMMER AT POWERSCOURT HOTEL RESORT SPA

 ENJOY THE HAZY DAYS OF SUMMER AT

POWERSCOURT HOTEL RESORT SPA

Packages overview:

·       Powerscourt Passport: Overnight stay for two from €298.00 per room to include breakfast, complimentary room up-grade and entrance tickets to either Powerscourt Waterfall or Powerscourt House & Gardens.

·       Summer Time Out: 2 adults and 2 children (under 12 yrs) sharing family accommodation with breakfast for all, a family picnic for 4 and admission to Powerscourt Waterfall and dinner for the adults on one evening in The Sally Gap Restaurant from €892 for a two-night stay or €446.00 for an overnight experience for the family.

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Whether it is family bonding time or a couple’s summer retreat you are longing for, the 5* Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa is the perfect choice and has just launched some fabulous online offers available throughout the summer 2023.

There’s nothing as decadent as a mid-week summer escape. Powerscourt has curated a delightful overnight experience for two, namely the Powerscourt Passport, offering guests midweek stays from €298.00 per room with breakfast and complimentary upgrade upon check-in.  Also, included are courtesy entrance tickets to either Powerscourt House & Gardens or Powerscourt Waterfall and guests can advise which attraction/activity preference they have upon check in. Each location sets the perfect backdrop for a romantic alfresco picnic.  

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Upon arrival, the welcoming doorman will escort you to the impressive lobby which leads into the Sugar Loaf Lounge, where you can catch a glimpse of the magical setting.  Settle into your impressive bedroom, take a stroll or a bike ride about the glorious grounds, slip into your swimwear for a dip in the 20m Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool before donning your best attire for some sophisticated cocktails on the glorious outdoor terrace before dinner in the stunning Sika Restaurant, where the space is as appetising as the menu. 

Sika Restaurant

There is no better place to soak up the sunshine and enjoy the Sugar Loaf Mountain vistas as the weather gets warmer, as Sika Terrace & Restaurant is open for all day dining during the summer months and offers the best of Irish contemporary cooking inspired by the rich bounty of our seas and fields, with popular classics deliciously presented with a distinctively modern twist. Overnight stay for two from €298.00 per room per night to include breakfast, complimentary room up-grade and entrance tickets to either Powerscourt Waterfall or Powerscourt House & Gardens.

For families, Powerscourt offers a tantalising balance of fun and formality with outdoor playground, giant chess game and nature walks to decadent Afternoon Tea experiences so regardless of age, there’s plenty of options to satisfy all requests. Treat the kids and let them explore the magnificent 1,000-acre resort and enjoy some relaxed family time together over breakfast in the wonderful Sika Restaurant overlooking the glorious grounds and Sugar Loaf Mountain. 

Cycle to the gorgeous village of Enniskerry (complimentary estate bicycles available) or pedal along the river walk trail and pay a visit to Powerscourt Waterfall and enjoy a family picnic together, taking time to inhale the breath-taking vistas.  Whilst the kids enjoy complimentary movies and popcorn in the comfort of your room, the adults can steal away on one evening for a delicious dinner for two in the beautiful Sally Gap Restaurant. Summer Time Out  package for 2 adults and 2 children (under 12 yrs) sharing family accommodation with breakfast for all, a family picnic for 4 and admission to Powerscourt Waterfall and dinner for the adults on one evening in The Sally Gap Restaurant from €892 for a two-night stay or €446.00 for an overnight experience for the family. 

Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa offers a truly magical escape, with all the vital ingredients to create the perfect backdrop for an amazing summer break.  Relax on arrival in the comfort of your impressive bedroom complete with signature linens, featherbeds, marble bathrooms, ESPA bath essentials and Rainforest showers to name some of the luxurious amenities. Take a dip in the indoor 20m Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool or treat yourself to a treatment at ESPA. 

Renowned as one of the best spa hotels in Ireland, therapists are trained to the highest standards ensuring you can enjoy an exceptional spa experience in secluded luxury. All treatments are exclusively by ESPA, and surrounded by gorgeous scenery amongst the Wicklow Mountains, the Spa is the ultimate luxury retreat. All Spa guests enjoy full use of the thermal areas including Swarovski-Crystal lit heated pool, Hamman Suite, Sauna and Steam rooms.  The Spa Café offers a tranquil oasis to sit, eat, sip and surrender to relaxation.

Don your walking attire and take advantage of the wonderful Wicklow countryside including a private Riverside Walk within the walls of Powerscourt Estate offering over 3 km of winding unspoiled walkways, breathtaking views and an opportunity to spend some precious time with the love of your life.  

This private and hidden gem lies deep within the walls of Powerscourt Estate and the Viscount of Powerscourt laid the River Walk’s main pathway in 1868 so that his family could enjoy the serenity of the river Dargle.   If it is an adventure break you are looking for, the hotel can organise mountain climbs, escorted walks or more strenuous activities including abseiling and mountain biking.  Golf can also be arranged at Powerscourt Golf Club and Enniskerry is packed with interesting things to do and see. The town itself is brimming with great restaurants, fabulous shops, and old-town atmosphere.

For more information, please visit www.powerscourthotel.com

Bookings can be made through the Reservations Team on +35312748888 or reservations@powerscourthotel.com

press release

“LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!” Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa set to re-open with “Enchanting” summer escape breaks

 “LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!” 

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa set to re-open with some “Enchanting” summer escape breaks

 

For immediate release:   Thursday, May 6th 2021:  As Hollywood actress Amy Adams touched down in Ireland today to commence filming in Enniskerry, the 5* Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa is busy preparing to re-open for the summer season ahead.

It is safe to say, that we have all become a little “Disenchanted” with life, so why not book a night or two of fairytale living at Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa and perhaps witness the glitz and glam of a Disney movie in the making.  From June 2^nd, the resort is offering a number of packages including their Summer Luxury Escape experience, offering 15% off bed and breakfast stay packages with pricing from €158.00 per person sharing.

For those eager to relax and dine in-doors then the Powerscourt Dining Experience will most definitely appeal.  Boasting exceedingly spacious accommodations, glorious views, delicious food and amazing spa and resort facilities, there’s simply no better setting to reignite the passion and bring some romance back into the relationship. Offering luxurious overnight accommodation, dinner in the stunning setting of Sika Restaurant with breakfast this package is priced from €233.50 per person sharing.

Treat the kids and let them explore the magnigicent estate and enjoy some relaxed family time together. Cycyle to the village (complimentary estate bicycles available) and see all the Disney action: pedal along the river walk trail, and pay a visit to Powerscourt Waterfall and enjoy a family picnic together, taking time to enhale the breathtaking vistas.   Family Fun package for 2 adults and 2 children (under 12 yrs) sharing family accommodation with breakfast for all, a family picnic for 4 and admission to Powerscourt Waterfall from €474 per room per night.

Terrace Dining

ESPA at Powerscourt is set to re-open for hotel guests on June 2^nd and a reopening date for non-residents will be advised as soon as is practical.  For those eager to attend to the very negegleted pampering sessions then why not indulge yourself and book an ESPA Retreat package that includes overnight stay for two, dinner in Sika Restaurant, breakfast the following morning and a one hour ESPA treatment each from €301 per person sharing.

The indoor 20m Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool is also yours to use, with family access times available, fully equipped gym (open between 7am-9pm) daily following strict guideline procedures to ensure the wellbeing of both staff and hotel guests) and an array of outdoor pursuits on the doorstep.   If it is an adventure break you are looking for, the hotel can organise mountain climbs, escorted walks or more strenuous activities including abseiling and mountain biking.  Golf can also be arranged at Powerscourt Golf Club and Enniskerry is packed with interesting things to do and see. The town itself is brimming with great restaurants, fabulous shops and old-town atmosphere and a sprinkle of Disney movie magic!.

For more information please visit www.powerscourthotel.com

Bookings can be made through the Reservations Team on +35312748888 or reservations@powerscourthotel.com

press release

WANDER THROUGH WICKLOW. Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa invites Wicklow Country Residents to take some respite at their 5* Estate

 WANDER THROUGH WICKLOW

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa invites Wicklow Country Residents to take some respite at their 5* Estate

 

Being grounded in Co. Wicklow has a lot of advantages, from exploring new walking trails to experiencing amazing vistas and visiting quaint villages, what’s not to like?  Treat yourself to some 5* opulence over the next few weeks and spend an overnight at the 5* Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa.

Walk, cycle or drive to Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa and leave your worries behind.  Relax in the safety and comfort of Wicklow’s most prestigious address and spend your day appreciating all the bounty your county has to offer.  Wicklow residents are invited to stay overnight in a complimentary up-graded room, take a dip in the 20-metre Swarovski crystal swimming pool, dine that evening in the gorgeous Sika Restaurant or enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at the newly refurbished outdoor heated terrace, with jaw dropping vistas of the Sugar Loaf Mountain. 

Retire to your luxurious guest room, complete with everything you need for a relaxing getaway.   Of course, no stay is complete without a hearty breakfast the following morning to prepare you for the day ahead.  Make full use of the great outdoors during you stay and take a complimentary bicycle to explore all the Estate has to offer.  The “Wander Through Wicklow” overnight experience costs from €186 per person sharing and includes 3 course dinner and breakfast. Click here for Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa Images 

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa has lots to offer including complimentary bicycles so you are free to explore the Estate at your leisure. ESPA at Powerscourt is currently open to hotel residents and the indoor 20 metre Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool is also yours to use plus the fully equipped gym (Guests will be asked to self-regulate social distancing on gym equipment and while the facility will be regularly cleaned and sanitised, guests will be required to disinfect gym equipment before and after use) and above all the wonderful array of outdoor pursuits on the doorstep.

Powerscourt offers the most stunning vistas of “The Garden of Ireland” with scenic river walks, quaint villages and luxurious surroundings to explore at leisure. With acres of "free to roam" walking trails surrounded by Wicklow’s wonderful landscapes and wilderness, more top class golf courses than you can shake a putter at, miles of nearby golden beaches, there are few places elsewhere on this earth that can offer such a wonderful choice within such an intimate, hospitable and secure location.

Press release

Family Mid-term Treat at Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa

Family Mid-term Treat

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa

Escape to the luxury of 5* Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa with the family, and with 1,000 acres of the historic Powerscourt Estate for you to explore, there’s no better place to base yourself this Hallowe’en.   

The mid-term Family Fun package includes overnight accommodation in a family room sleeping 4 (2 adults and 2 kids under 12), a trip to Powerscourt Waterfall with a delicious freshly prepared picnic for all the family to savour, a family breakfast served in the newly refurbished Sika Restaurant, overlooking the Sugar Loaf Mountain plus an array of fun-filled activities and amenities including, splash-time in the Swarovski crystal-lit 20-metre, bike rides about the estate, colouring maps, and mini bathrobes for the VIK (very important kids).

This package includes an overnight stay with full Irish breakfast the following morning, tickets for two adults and two children to Powerscourt Waterfall, and a freshly prepared picnic basket and rates from € 182 per adult sharing (2 adults and 2 kids under 12 yrs sharing).

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa has lots to offer including complimentary bicycles so you are free to explore the Estate at your leisure. ESPA at Powerscourt is currently open to hotel residents and non-residents. The indoor 20 metre Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool is also yours to use plus the fully equipped gym (Guests will be asked to self-regulate social distancing on gym equipment and while the facility will be regularly cleaned and sanitised, guests will be required to disinfect gym equipment before and after use) and above all the wonderful array of outdoor pursuits on the doorstep.   If it is an adventure break you are looking for, the hotel can organise mountain climbs, escorted walks or more strenuous activities including abseiling and mountain biking. 

Located just 30 minutes from Dublin city centre, Powerscourt offers the most stunning vistas of “The Garden of Ireland” with scenic river walks, quaint villages and luxurious surroundings to explore at leisure. With acres of "free to roam" walking trails surrounded by Wicklow’s wonderful landscapes and wilderness, more top class golf courses than you can shake a putter at, miles of nearby golden beaches and a choice of dining and entertainment options second to none, there are few places elsewhere on this earth that can offer the visitor such a wonderful choice within such an intimate, hospitable and secure location.    Enniskerry is packed with interesting things to do and see. The town itself is brimming with great restaurants, fabulous shops and old-town atmosphere.

With a choice of dining options from casual dining in the Sugar Loaf Lounge where Afternoon Tea reigns supreme to fine dining at the recently refurbished Sika Restaurant both offering breathtaking scenery and amiable service.  McGill’s Pub is now open as a dining option for hotel residents.

press release

Let's Go Outside. Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa introduces Sika Terrace

LET’S GO OUTSIDE

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa introduces Sika Terrace

Boasting a fabulous newly refurbished outdoor heated terrace, Sika at 5* Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa is set to be the new hot spot this summer.

Set in the most stunning of locations, Sika Terrace has just launched a new Al Fresco dining menu to run throughout the coming months. Enjoy a cocktail whilst inhaling the magnificent vistas of the Sugar Loaf mountain and nibble to your heart’s content from the delicious dining menu. Available from 12 noon-4.30pm weekdays and 12.30pm-4.30pm at the weekend, the Al Fresco menu offers guests the option of enjoying a light bite or a more substantial meal making the most of current 90 minute booking slot guidelines. 

 Offering a large selection of beverages and dishes, the new menu caters for all – from fabulous salads to succulent steaks one can happily graze whilst soaking-up the sunshine and surroundings. With dishes from €12 and plenty of open spaces for you to safely roam you can make the most of your summer with a day trip to Wicklow. Also, as the terrace is heated with protective canopies and warm throws to protect you from the occasional inclement weather, it is set to be a popular year round destination. For full menu please see Lunch and to reserve your spot email reservations@powerscourthotel.com or call 01 2748888.

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa is also delighted to announce that non-residents can now book Afternoon Tea in the Sugar Loaf Lounge daily from 1pm-5pm (90 minute booking slots). Catch-up with family and friends and treat yourself to a scrumptious Afternoon Tea experience in the magnificent Sugar Loaf Lounge with panoramic views of the Garden of Ireland. 

Enjoy a mouth-watering array of sandwiches, freshly made scones and delicious homemade pastries accompanied by your choice of Tea or Coffee. Afternoon Tea is €45 per person and add a glass of cheer €55 per person for Afternoon Tea with a glass of champagne. Pre-booking is essential with at least 24 hours notice to ensure your preferred date and time and slots available to book email reservations@powerscourthotel.com or call 01 2748888. For full menu please see Afternoon Tea. 

Discerning diners will be delighted with the fabulous dining options available with an emphasis on local excellence and seasonality, Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa offers the best of Irish contemporary cooking against a spectacular backdrop of Wicklow's hills and mountains. The space is as appetising as the menus. Further to Irish government guidance surrounding Covid-19, Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa is adhering to current social distancing measures in place. For further information on Covid-19 policies, click here.

Located just 30 minutes from Dublin city centre, Powerscourt offers the most stunning vistas of “The Garden of Ireland” with scenic river walks, quaint villages and luxurious surroundings to explore at leisure. With acres of "free to roam" walking trails surrounded by Wicklow’s wonderful landscapes and wilderness, more top class golf courses than you can shake a putter at, miles of nearby golden beaches and a choice of dining and entertainment options second to none, there are few places elsewhere on this earth that can offer the visitor such a wonderful choice within such an intimate, hospitable and secure location. Enniskerry is packed with interesting things to do and see. The town itself is brimming with great restaurants, fabulous shops and old-town atmosphere.

press release

A Summer Double. East to West. Powerscourt and Glenlo Abbey

EAST TO WEST 

Introducing the ultimate Summer Staycation from 

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa and Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate

 

Glenlo

Discover the beauty of the Garden of Ireland and the charms of Ireland’s western seaboard this summer and stay in luxury at Wicklow’s 5* Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa and Galway’s 5* Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate

Throughout the months of July & August, Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate and Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa are teaming-up offering 3 and 4 night packages at each property with bookings co-ordinated by the Powerscourt Hotel reservations team via reservations@powerscourthotel.com.     The package includes stays at each hotel for two people sharing from Sunday – Thursday with Powerscourt offering breakfast daily, dinner on one night at Sika Restaurant plus complimentary upgrade to a Mountain View Deluxe Room.  Glenlo is offering breakfast daily, dinner on one evening aboard The Pullman restaurant plus upgrade to a Corrib Deluxe Room.  Total price for 3 night stay package from €1105 and €1400 for a 4 night experience.   Package offers the flexibility to stay one night at Powerscourt and two at Glenlo or visa versa. 

Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa is Ireland’s foremost luxury 5* destination set amidst the scenic & historic Powerscourt Estate, Co. Wicklow a mere 30 minutes drive from the hustle and bustle of Dublin city centre life, offering Palladian-style architecture with 198 generously sized bedrooms and luxurious amenities.

With a choice of dining options from casual dining in the Sugar Loaf Lounge where Afternoon Tea reigns supreme to fine dining at the recently refurbished Sika Restaurant both offering breath-taking scenery and amiable service.

Powerscourt

For leisure guests Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa has lots to offer including complimentary bicycles so you are free to explore the Estate. The indoor 20m Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool is also yours to use, with fully equipped gym and above all the wonderful array of outdoor pursuits on the doorstep including 2-championship courses at Powerscourt Golf Powerscourt House & Gardens and Powerscourt Waterfall. If it is an adventure break you are looking for, the hotel can organise mountain climbs, escorted walks or more strenuous activities including abseiling and mountain biking. 

ESPA at Powerscourt is set to re-open; full details on services and offers will be advised in the coming weeks as they work closely with ESPA to develop a basis for reopening safely for both customers and ESPA team. 

Majestically rising from the still waters of Lough Corrib and dating back to the 18th Century, the 5 star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate (proud member of Ireland’s Blue Book) is where old world charm meets contemporary elegance. From the moment you drive through the magnificent cast iron gates the beauty of this enchanting lakeside estate overlooking Lough Corrib will captivate you. 

Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is situated just 4kms from Galway City Centre and the M6 motorway has made getting to Galway so much easier. With 50 air-conditioned bedrooms and suites (additional 25 bedrooms being added this September) have been designed with an emphasis on general space and comfort, and afford unrivalled views of the dramatic West of Ireland landscape with its ever-changing colours.

Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate has 2* Rosettes from the AA, for Ireland’s Fine Dining Restaurant making it a superb dining and entertainment option for both formal and informal occasions. These include the River Room Restaurant overlooking the estate, the Pullman Restaurant on The Orient Express, the Oak Cellar Bar, and three elegant Reception Rooms in the Main House which exude Old World Charm, where guests can enjoy a relaxing drink, afternoon tea, or take time out to relax and read the newspapers. The hotel also boasts a private screening room and billiards room.

With a 138-acre lakeside golf estate, golf among other activities is on your doorstep to enjoy. The unique Championship 9 Hole Golf Course is quickly becoming the best 9 holes in the country with rolling hills, lakes and fabulous views of Lough Corrib and it is the closest golf course to Galway City. The 21 Bay Driving Range is the ideal place to warm up before a round of golf but also for group and individual golf tuition. While archery and some of the best fishing in Western Europe are easily organised right on-site on the Estate. Other activities that can be organised near the property include horse riding, boating, water sports and tennis with the ancient sport of royalty – falconry onsite.

press release

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa announces its re-opening

press release

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa announces its re-opening

Goatsbridge Trout starter at Powerscourt Hotel

5* Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa is thrilled to announce that it will re-open its doors on Thursday, July 2nd under strict Covid-19 policies click here for details.

Located just 30 minutes from Dublin city centre, Powerscourt offers the most stunning vistas of “The Garden of Ireland” with scenic river walks, quaint villages and luxurious surroundings to explore at leisure. With acres of "free to roam" walking trails surrounded by Wicklow’s wonderful landscapes and wilderness, more top class golf courses than you can shake a putter at, miles of nearby golden beaches and a choice of dining and entertainment options second to none, there are few places elsewhere on this earth that can offer the visitor such a wonderful choice within such an intimate, hospitable and secure location. 

“We are working hard to ensure the safety of both our staff and customers and are so fortunate to have incredible surroundings and facilities matched with attentive and loyal staff who are dedicated to delivering the best personable experience possible during these very challenging times” said Peter Borralnan, General Manager.  

ESPA at Powerscourt is set to re-open after July 20^th; full details on services and offers will be advised in the coming weeks as they work closely with ESPA to develop a basis for reopening safely for both customers and ESPA team. A reopening date will be advised as soon as is practical.  The hotel gym and pool will be open between 7am - 8pm daily and will follow strict guideline procedures to ensure the wellbeing of both staff and hotel guests. 

Taking inspiration from its amazing surroundings and facilities, Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa have put together some great re-opening offers to appeal to guests looking for a luxurious stay with freedom to roam and explore without having to travel far beyond the Estate and environs.  Mid-week offers available from €287 per deluxe room per night to include breakfast. 

With families exhausted from educating and entertaining their children at home, it is now time to plan some time-out.  With this in mind, Powerscourt have a fantastic break on offer FROM JULY 20^th which includes an overnight stay in a family room sleeping 4 (2 adults and 2 kids under 12) enjoying a family breakfast in the newly refurbished Sika Restaurant, overlooking the Sugar Loaf Mountain plus an array of fun-filled activities and amenities including scheduled splash-time in the swimming pool, colouring maps, and mini bathrobes for the VIK (very important kids).  At bedtime, children will be treated to a delicious amenity specially created by the talented pastry team.   In addition to the fantastic resort experience, the stay also includes complimentary admission to Cool Planet experience located beside Powerscourt House & Gardens, 5 minutes’ walk from the hotel, offering an interactive and educational experience for the whole family to discover how they can help save the Earth. On an evening of choice, the grown-ups will enjoy a delicious dinner at Sika Restaurant.   The overnight experience to include breakfast daily, Cool Planet entry, dinner on one evening for the adults and scheduled activities and amenities available from €400 per night.

Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa has lots to offer children and adults including complimentary bicycles so you are free to explore the Estate: pedal along the river walk trail, and pay a visit to Powerscourt Waterfall, ideal for timeless family photos. The indoor 20m Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool is also yours to use, with family access times available, fully equipped gym (Guests will be asked to self-regulate social distancing on gym equipment and while the facility will be regularly cleaned and sanitised, guests will be required to disinfect gym equipment before and after use) and above all the wonderful array of outdoor pursuits on the doorstep.   If it is an adventure break you are looking for, the hotel can organise mountain climbs, escorted walks or more strenuous activities including abseiling and mountain biking.  

For those looking for an active break, Powerscourt Hotel Resort Spa has an exciting GOLFING package available incorporating Powerscourt Golf Club, boasting two championship golf courses and guests can avail of this wonderful 36-hole championship-standard golf complex, set in with the vast grounds of the estate. This stunning golf centre consists of two fantastic courses, the East Course and the West Course and was named the winner of the Best Parkland Venue by The Golfers' Guide to Ireland 2014.   Stay & play packages are available to book online including a two night package with dinner in Sika Restaurant on one night, two rounds of golf and breakfast each morning from €425 per person sharing. 

Golf can also be arranged at Powerscourt Golf Club and Enniskerry is packed with interesting things to do and see. The town itself is brimming with great restaurants, fabulous shops and old-town atmosphere. 

Wet and Windy. But Enjoyable Stay at Powerscourt Hotel

Powerscourt Visit 2019

Wet and Windy. But Enjoyable Stay at Powerscourt Hotel

Lobby at the Powerscourt Hotel

It was a wet and windy Monday when we made our most recent visit to Powerscourt. The estate, there is also a waterfall nearby, is just an hour or so from Dublin and now, with the improved motorways, it is just two and a half from Cork. Use M8, M7, M50, M11 (to Wexford) and that will leave you with just a few miles of country road to reach your destination.

Weather was so much better when we last visited in 2015

The rain followed us up from Cork and it was pelting down when we pulled in to the hotel on the grounds, hoping to have a quick lunchtime snack in the bar. But McGill’s Pub was closed until 4.00pm so we headed up to the house and the Avoca Cafe whose high-ceilinged dining rooms look out over the grounds. Not much to be seen that Monday, I’m afraid, but a tasty soup with a warming piquancy set  us up for the afternoon.

Night view of the fountains in the pool from the balcony

We did a little food shopping in the adjoining Avoca shop. Lots of local produce on sale, including Skellig Chocolates, and also plenty of fudge under the Avoca label but this was unmistakably Mella’s fudge from West Cork. No shortage of non-Irish produce too and surprised to see they had apple rings from China when Con Traas mades a superb delicious apple ring down in Cahir.

We had an appointment to tour the newly built Powerscourt Distillery just a few hundred yards away. With the weather still bad, we drove over (rather than walked) and parked outside the door. The tour is excellent and highly recommended and you may read about our experience here. Didn’t realise they had a café there also.

Back then to the Powerscourt Hotel to check in. Entry to the gardens is free to hotel guests but no possibility at all of exercising that option as the rains continued to pour down. Our room here was fabulous and indeed the hotel itself is magnificent, the lobby particularly impressive.

Super starter of Gin Cured Goatsbridge Trout, Pickled Apple, Green Gazpacho, Avocado, Tapioca

We had been hoping to dine at Sika, the main restaurant, but this is currently subject to occasional closure due to renovations. However we did enjoy the Sika cooking in the Sugar Loaf Lounge instead. Both restaurants have views out towards the Sugar Loaf mountain but, such was the extent of the rain, that famous landmark wasn’t visible at all.

Goat cheese, smoked beetroot purée,
Heirloom cherry tomato, cucumber gel
Basil Oil, Balsamic pearls

Dinner was excellent, quite a lot of choices here, and service, as you might expect, was also top notch. 

After dinner, we headed to McGill’s Pub in the hotel. This Irish pub is an excellent venue. The bar itself is “made for elbows”. The seating is not at all plush but good enough to enjoy your pick from a fine selection of whiskeys, beers and stouts. They also offer "a tasty menu of wholesome, traditional dishes, prepared and served with imagination and style".

And, even on a wet Tuesday, it was busy with food and drink, as indeed was the hotel itself. There was a great buzz in the bar and a football game on the screens. Not exactly what you’d expect in a five star but very enjoyable indeed with a very friendly and efficient service. 

I usually look for local beers and noted a string of Wicklow taps. Unfortunately none were active so I settled for a pint of Smithwick’s Red Ale. Not bad at all but not quite as good as the large bottle (568 mls) of Smithwick Red that I enjoyed a few months back in Lonergan’s Pub in Ballymacarbry (west Waterford).

Next morning, we were served breakfast in the Sika, after a very warm welcome indeed, No shortage of choice here at all and the hot buffet was just brilliant. The food looked very inviting and all was at the proper temperature and, back at the table, proved very tasty indeed, a proper Irish breakfast, just what was needed for another wet day ahead. More on that and the fantastic Wicklow Heather in the next post.

More about the gardens (from a previous visit) here

Also on this trip: Powerscourt Distillery
The Wicklow Heather