Mount Juliet Estate

This Georgian mansion was once the residence of the Earl of Carrick. Set on a hill overlooking the River Nore, the 18^th century estate is found in the countryside 20 minutes outside the medieval city of Kilkenny.

Choose to stay in the traditional Manor House or laid-back Hunter’s Yard, both which have been awarded five stars. They sit within the 1,500-acre estate which  includes a championship golf course, equestrian centre, swimming pool and fields of horses calmly grazing on the green grasses. French country chic rooms mix antiques and hand-embroidered fabrics.

International dishes are prepared with local produce and herbs at Lady Helen restaurant and a cosy bar invites late-night chats. As Conde Nast state: “If you want to relax and just take in the beauty of Ireland, stay here.”