WINTER 2011
celebratedliving.com
16
TRAVEL
BallyfinDemesne
Set in theheart of Ireland in the lovely
CountyLaois, this uniquefive-star property
over-delivers at every turn. From themo-
ment youpull through thegates, youare
transportedback in timeat thisglorious
600-acreestateestablished in1820. Re-
served for guestsonly, theestate includes a
magnificent lake,walledgardens, ancient
grottoes, and the famedStoneTower, com-
pletewithbicycles andgolf carts toexplore
it all. Youwill alsofinda spa, archery, boat-
ing, croquet, andmore toentertainyour
royals. Andwithonly15guest rooms, Bally-
finoffersplentyof space to relaxandun-
wind. Longadmiredasoneof themost
lavishRegencymansions in Ireland, Ballyfin,
over the last decade, hasbeen restoredand
decorated to its former early-19th-century
glory. Theall-inclusiveexperienceat
Ballyfinpromotes the relaxed feelingof
beingaguest in this absolutely
exquisitehome. ballyfin.com
TheRoyal
Treatment
Itwouldbe a sizable challenge to find a country or a people that are
more friendly andwelcoming thatwhat youwill findon the Emerald Isle.
Here, everyone is treated like royalty. So if youwant to travel like a king
or a queen, the estates, castles, andmanors found throughout Ireland are
primed topamper you. Here are some of our favorites.
—MICHAELWOODY
TOPRIGHT:COURTESYDROMOLANDCASTLE;CENTER:COURTESYCASTLEMARTYRRESORT
