There is no doubt that it has been a tough year, one that no one would have expected, and somehow, the months have passed both slowly and all at once.
Amid it all, employees worked hard, adapted, and endured. Clients supported businesses in times of need. With no sign of Christmas parties on the horizon, now, more than ever, they deserve recognition and gratitude.
An Ireland’s Blue Book gift voucher is a fantastic way to reward your colleagues, clients and employees after a hectic year of perseverance so that they can have something special to look forward to, when restrictions are eased and life returns to some form of normal.
Show them that you are appreciative of all that they have done throughout the year, by giving them an experience they can hold on to and treasure, as well as a chance to relax and escape for a special staycation or a tempting treat. Blue Book gift vouchers can be used in over 50 historic country houses, castles, manor hotels and restaurants throughout the island of Ireland.
Within the collection, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes and requirements. Here are five of our suggestions.
Dining in Dungarvan in The Tannery Restaurant and Townhouse
For the gourmand of the group, a Blue Book gift voucher will be the perfect gift to whet their appetite. The Blue Book is renowned for the impeccable food served throughout the collection, from classic country house cooking to modern gourmet tasting menus.
An exemplary example can be found at The Tannery Restaurant, Townhouse and Cookery School located in the seaside town of Dungarvan.
Paul Flynn, chef, and owner, is well-known for cooking modern Irish food, using fresh Waterford ingredients with deep earthy flavours that reflect the changing seasons.
Set just around the corner from the restaurant, you will find their boutique accommodation, designed in a contemporary style where you can lay your head for the night.
Golf the green at Mount Juliet Estate
To the golfer of the group, a Blue Book gift voucher gives the opportunity to try their hand at courses all around Ireland’s countryside, while staying at the Blue Book properties located within ‘chipping distance’ of premium courses. Some of the hotels even have their own golf courses on their grounds.
One gem to note is the Jack Nicklaus Signature Designed Parkland golf course at Mount Juliet Estate in Co Kilkenny which is ranked among the world’s finest parkland courses. In true country estate fashion, the ambitious course has a remarkable natural beauty, with magnificent trees, miles of rushing river and lush pastures.
To fully experience the five-star estate, make it an overnight stay in either the elegant Georgian Manor House or the chic Hunter’s Yard.
Afternoon Tea at Ardtara Country House
For the sophisticated sweet tooth, there is nothing better than an afternoon of indulgence with a delicious Afternoon Tea, served in the drawing-room of a Blue Book country house.
Afternoon Tea at Ardtara Country House, Co Derry, is a pleasure for those who enjoy socialising with friends in elegant surroundings. Beginning with canapes and finger sandwiches, local coffee or your choice of tea, and finishing with delicate sweet treats and of course, delightful scones with clotted cream and berry jam, Afternoon Tea is a luxurious treat.
Experience all that Ardtara has to offer by staying over in one of their individually designed bedrooms which are filled with character and original features, furnished with a mixture of antiques, heirlooms, and quirky pieces.
The heart of the city at The Wilder Townhouse
For those who love to be in the centre of it all, the Blue Book collection includes boutique style properties in cities such as Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Kilkenny, and Derry.
Located on the tree-lined Adelaide Road, in Dublin, The Wilder is a resident’s only boutique townhouse, a city hideaway close to St. Stephens Green and the main city attractions. Steeped in history and dating from the Victorian era, with its stunning red-brick facade, The Wilder Townhouse evokes a real sense of history, perfectly combining its rich heritage with modern elegance and comforts.
Cosy night in the countryside at Coopershill House
For those looking to get away from it all the Blue Book collection offers the best of the best in countryside retreats on large estates just waiting to be explored.
Nestled in the centre of a 500-acre private estate of mature hardwoods, deer pastures and its own river, privacy at Coopershill Country House, Co Sligo is assured. Inside, you are greeted by a warm welcome, crackling log fires and Juno, the rescue dog. The house is filled with exquisite original Georgian antique furniture, the food is delicious, and the bedrooms offer spectacular views of rolling Sligo countryside.
Ireland’s Blue Book gift vouchers do not expire
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