A Night at Adare Manor
As I mentioned in my Ireland Travel Diary, our one night stay at Adare Manor was truly the highlight of our trip. From the moment we laid eyes on the manor’s façade, we felt a sense of awe and admiration for its noble presence. Nestled in the picturesque village of Adare, Ireland, the Manor stands as a timeless icon of elegance and grandeur. The majestic 19th-century manor, surrounded by lush gardens and rolling parklands on an 840 acre estate, is truly a retreat that combines rich history and impeccable service, which seems to be as perfectly orchestrated as an elegant ballet.
DRINKS IN THE DRAWING ROOM
After we checked into our room, we settled in with a cocktail in the Drawing Room. Overlooking the formal gardens, the room is blessed with natural light, which creates a bright and cheerful atmosphere during the day – an ideal spot to enjoy tea and light fare; yet in the evening crystal chandeliers, candles, and two large fireplaces cast a warm glow over the plush velvet sofas and seating for a cozy place to enjoy drinks before or after dinner.
We then spent the evening exploring the corridors and halls, feeling for a brief period the weight of history and the splendor of the past. Adare Manor exudes an old-world charm that transports visitors back in time.
Each corner seems to tell a story, from its stunning architecture adorned with intricate details to its opulent interiors featuring period furnishings and artwork. Every room and space within the manor is meticulously designed to evoke a sense of abiding refinement.
DINNER AT THE OAK ROOM
I had reserved dinner at The Oak Room in advance of our stay. Enveloped by rich wood paneling, ornate chandeliers, and luxurious furnishings, we chose the tasting menu with wine pairing.
The dining was unlike anything either of us had ever known, featuring creative combinations and unique flavor profiles that led us on a culinary journey that delighted the senses. Our knowledgeable sommelier selected the perfect wine pairings to complement our meal, the combination of which often sparking the most remarkable explosion of flavors.
The Michelin-starred restaurant is headed by Executive Head Chef Mike Tweedie, whom we had the honor of meeting. He even signed our menus with a congratulatory note for our belated honeymoon. The Oak Room showcases the finest ingredients and expert culinary techniques, and it is evident the menu is carefully curated by Chef Tweedie and his team, who strive to create innovative and delicious dishes that celebrate the flavors of Ireland.
Committed to using seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients and ensuring the freshest and highest quality produce, Chef Tweedie told us of his close relationship with local farmers and producers that allow guests to enjoy dishes that reflect the changing seasons and to savor the bounty of the region.
The dinner was truly a once in a lifetime experience in the most private, intimate, and romantic setting. I wish I had more photos, but in all honesty, not only did it seem improper to have my phone out during such an exquisite meal, but we also were so absorbed in the experience that we hardly thought of our phones.
THE ACCOMMODATIONS
Being an early riser, I took my time the next morning for a bit of pampering in the spa-like bathroom, plush robe and slippers, and made myself an in-room espresso. Frost had formed on the grounds overnight, and when I opened the curtains I was greeted by a winter wonderland that had settled around our view of the River Maigue. It felt quite apropos for the first day of December.
EXPLORING THE GARDENS
The lush gardens and parklands surrounding Adare Manor provide a stunning backdrop of natural beauty. The formal garden is meticulously maintained and showcases a variety of colorful flowers, manicured lawns, and ornamental features.
We meandered along the garden pathways, photographing the vibrant blooms, neatly trimmed hedges, and the overall beauty of the well-kept space that creates a harmony between the manor’s architecture and the far reaching natural landscapes.
From the gardens and parklands, we couldn’t help but admire anew the architecture of Adare Manor itself. The view of the manor from the gardens paradoxically highlights both its resplendence and its charm.
The day was sunny but quite chilly, so after our wander through the gardens, we warmed up inside by the open fire and enjoyed a decadent dessert before our departure. I honestly did not want to leave and deeply wished we had carved out more time for our stay; there is so much to do, to simply absorb, in this special place. I can imagine spending an entire week there and still feeling there was not enough time.
ADARE VILLAGE
Beyond the borders of the manor lies the charming village of Adare, known for its thatched-roof cottages, ancient churches, and picturesque streets. We spent all our time at the Manor so didn’t have time to take a stroll through the village to discover its quaint shops, art galleries, and traditional pubs, but we most assuredly will on our next visit, which hopefully will not be too far off in the future, as my husband’s family have already invited us back for a stay.
On our next trip, we will definitely spend our time in Adare and nearby Cork, where my sister-in-law and her husband live. As much as we enjoyed our entire tour of Ireland, I think it’s safe to say we found a favorite region that beckons a return.
