54 the review
Checking out... S TAY: SOLIS LOUGH ESKE CASTLE - Donegal, Ireland
BY JO AUSTIN THE BACKGROUND: An historic property, perfect for a short break at any time of year as it features huge open fi res; a heated swimming pool; a spa and loads of activities within its walls and grounds. I even learned how to smoke a salmon during my brief stay! THE LOCATION: Set in 44 acres of forest and parkland on the shores of Lough Eske. The Castle is a 5km drive from Donegal Town in remote and picturesque County Donegal in the north west of Ireland. Air access is via Knock Airport in Donegal or via Belfast in Northern Ireland (both around two hours away).
w.nd.com THE ROOM: Mine was a spacious, elegant and airy deluxe room with gracious furnishings. All mod cons, wifi and a marble bathrooom with huge shower, bath and double basins. KEY FACILITIES: The 96-room, fi ve star rural retreat is also perfectly suited to
THE VERDICT
MICE and incentive travel with every- thing from outdoor team challenges and constructive brain teasers to team pampering in the spa. The champion- ship Donegal links golf course is close by. Conference and meetings rooms can accommodate events of up to 400 delegates. The entire castle can be
booked on exclusive hire. RESTAURANTS/BARS: The stylish Cedars Grill serves local cuisine and the Oak Bar is a cosy place to while away the hours and enjoy an Irish whiskey. Solis Lough Eske Castle, Donegal Town T: +353 74 97 25100 W:
solishotels.com/ lougheskecastle Learn more: W:
Ireland.com
S TAY: GLAZEBROOK HOUSE HOTEL - South Brent, Devon
BY ALAN ORBELL THE BACKGROUND: Following a multi-million refurbishment to the 1865 building, the 1980s traditional country house hotel has been trans- formed into a chic boutique property more redolent of London than deepest Devon. Yet, for those who like to com- bine sophistication with the pleasures of country living and great food, this is the perfect place. It’s full of handmade furnishings, vintage and retro curios. THE LOCATION: Just outside the village
of South Brent off the A38, roughly mid-way between Exeter and Plymouth, yet a short stroll away from the beauty and seclusion of Dartmoor. THE ROOM: The eight rooms are all different and named after characters from Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland; ours was Caterpillar and overlooked the gardens. All rooms have exceptionally comfortable beds, as indeed they should be at £15,000+ each! Features included a butterfl y writing desk, tree trunks for bedside tables and chandeliers for bedside lamps. There’s mood lighting, fl atscreen TV, tea/coffee-making equipment, free wi-fi and a free mini- bar. Walls are dark chocolate brown and the carpet tartan. KEY FACILITIES: The unique delights of Dartmoor are right on the doorstep. For those who prefer not to strike out alone, guided walks tailored to suit each individual are available
THE VERDICT
RESTAURANTS/BARS: Star of the show is the restaurant under the direction of chef Ben Palmer with copious use of local produce. Adjacent to the kitchen the Chef’s Table allows diners to be part of the show. There’s a large red marble-topped bar and also a wine and whisky tasting room with 30- minute tastings before dinner. Glazebrook House Hotel, South Brent, Devon T: 01364 73322 W:
glazebrookhouse.com E:
enquiries@glazebrookhouse.com
An outstanding modern- style country hotel where comfort, cuisine and ambience are all of the very highest order. The Glazebrook’s position on the edge of Dartmoor makes it a great weekend stay with both Exeter and Plymouth an easy drive away.
RATES: From £159pn including breakfast
Friendly staff and exemplary service made for a truly memorable stay in the lap of five star Irish hospitality. While standards are high, there is nothing stuffy about the Castle where children and dogs are made equally welcome as wedding parties and conference guests. County Donegal is authentic Ireland and we were quickly immersed in the relaxed pace of life. Perfect for pampering, sightseeing and lots of fresh air. RATES: From £158pn including breakfast.
HOTELS / RESORTS / TRAIN JOURNEYS / CRUISING / AIRPORT REVIEWS
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