Osprey openings
The Osprey Hotel in Naas, Co Kildare, has completed a €1.2 million new spa, set to open this month. Designed by architect Hugh Wallace, the new space stretches over 10,000sq ft and three floors include a state-of-the-art thermal suite, seaweed baths, two relaxation rooms, six treatment rooms and a private couple's suite, with decor inspired by natural Irish materials like linen and oak. Visit ospreyspa.ie for more.
Lake luxe
A villa known as the "pearl of Lake Como" has opened its doors to the public this year. Villa Sola Cabiati is a preserved 16th-century aristocratic residence which now welcomes guests for overnight stays. Though the building dates back to the 1500s, it's been fitted with modern luxuries, private butlers for banquet dinners and even has a hidden swimming pool to ensure a stay here is the very last word in five-star luxury. From €6,000 per night with a minimum three-night stay, visit grandhoteltremezzo.com for more.
Brilliant Birr
Home of the Parsons family since 1620, the 7th Earl of Rosse, William Brendan Parsons and Alison Lady Rosse have opened their home, Birr Castle, to the public for the summer months. A 45-minute guided tour of Birr Castle with admission to the gardens and Science Centre costs €18 per adult and is best topped off with refreshments at their Courtyard Café, which serves the best in fresh local produce. Visit Irelandsancienteast.com for more.
Lake escape
Stay at the five-star Muckross Park Hotel & Spa this summer for a lakeside treat. A two-night stay with breakfast each morning, dinner on one evening in the award-winning Yew Tree restaurant, a boat trip with bubbles on the Lakes of Killarney, afternoon tea and complimentary use of the vitality suite in The Spa at Muckross costs €349 per person sharing. See muckrosspark.com for bookings.
