Monday, August 18, 2008

A treat to Carton House Retreat



Yesterday himself treated me to a night at Carton House for our wedding anniversary.



It's the most beautiful estate just off the N4 but it is off in a world of its own especially when you take the long drive up to the old house. The developers of this old estate have really done a spectacular job of fusing old with new. When you enter the hotel it is ultra slick and minimalist however, a few short steps takes you to the old part of the house with authentic furniture and artifacts dating back hundreds of years. You can sense the history as you walk through room after room, particularly the ballroom and library. It feels like a museum but because it is a hotel, residents have full access to most rooms and are encouraged to enjoy the facilities.

We had a lovely meal last night at the Linden Tree restaurant and enjoyed a nightcap in the funky resident's bar. This morning I had the most relaxing facial in the Molton Brown Spa - afterwards the therapist provides you with a refreshing mango sorbet to relax (yum!)I can highly recommend it for an escape away...


The ceilings were absolutely stunning - so much intricate detail.


I was fascinated to find this room which was entirely surrounded in bells leading to all of the old quarters. You can just imagine the poor servants flapping around as the Duke of Leinster beckoned for assistance from his Winter dressing room!



Even in the bar area you can see the original kitchen and hearth complete with all of the original kitchen implements on display.



Surprisingly the rain didn't stay away...

We were lucky enough to get upgraded to a deluxe room and this was the view from our balcony;-)

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