Ireland is often linked with the idealistic, picture-perfect green rolling hills, dramatic cliffs and coastlines, and of course, wet weather.

However, Ireland has been the destination of many celebrities seeking escape from the clutches of Hollywood's overbearing media, including Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, Victoria and David Beckham, Patrick Dempsey and more regularly, Sarah Jessica Parker of Sex and the City fame.

What do celebrities and multi-millionaires find in Ireland that they don't find anywhere else?

The draw is likely to be a combination of no paparazzi on the island, the ability to retreat into nature whilst still being within 2 hours of a city alongside the host of luxury hotels and Michelin Starred restaurants that are often overlooked by the international community in favour of destinations such as London, Paris and Rome.

Adare Manor

Location: Adare, Co. Limerick

Restaurant: The Oak Room - 1 Michelin Star

An 1800s manor country house, set on over 800 acres of private green lands, Adare Manor is one of Ireland's most luxurious five-star hotels. The long winding drive to this neo-Gothic calendar house (with 365 windows) is nothing short of breath-taking.

The Adare Manor has just over 100 suites, each designed with Georgian inspired furnishings, original art pieces, marble clad bathrooms within the main house, alongside luxury self-catering cottages.

Discover the premium spa, cycle around the grounds with the free bicycles, catch a movie in the private luxury cinema, or play a round of golf. Set to be the host of the 2027 Ryder Cup, The Golf Course which has been designed by golf architect Tom Fazio and has been visited by golf greats like Tiger Woods, Scottie Scheffler, Jon Rahm, and Northern Irish professional, Rory McIlroy.

With several options for dining, The Adare Manor is famed for a luxury afternoon tea spread, in addition to the Michelin plated Carriage House, which offers guests and visitors elegant and relaxed dining for The Oak Room is the pièce de résistance for foodies. Unsurprisingly clad in dark oak panelling, The Oak Room was first awarded a Michelin Star in 2019, and has retained said star ever since.

adaremanor.com

Castlemartyr Resort

Location: Castlemartyr, Co. Cork

Restaurant: Terre - 1 Michelin Star

A recently renovated sprawling country manor, set against the background of ancient castle ruins and over 200 acres of land, Castlemartyr Resort was popular before it become known as the honeymoon destination of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West.

With over 100 rooms and a number of self-catering on-site cottages, Castlemartyr Resort is nestled on perfectly manicured lawns, and has a selection of walking trails. The five-star hotel resort is uniquely pet-friendly, making it the ideal destination for families and couples seeking the ultimate country retreat.

The five-star luxury resort has an array of luxury amenities including a spa and an 18-hole golf course. A small country town is also within walking distance where guests can sample of local life.

Awarded one Michelin Star in the most recent awards of March 2023, renowned chef Vincent Crepel is at the helm of Terre. French cuisine and cooking methods are paired with Asian flair, to present diners with an interesting symphony of flavours.

castlemartyrresort.ie

@terre_restaurant_

Cliff House Hotel

Location: Ardmore, Co Waterford

Restaurant: The House Restaurant - 1 Michelin Star

As the name suggests, this five-star hotel is perched on a cliff edge. A small hotel with just 39 bedrooms, Cliff House Hotel is an oceanside retreat, ideal for those looking for an escape away from the hustle and bustle of life.

Cliff House Hotel is a five-star hotel with an intimate, and boutique feel.

Perfectly pitched on the cliff edge, the hotel is a delightful stay in both the best and worst of weathers, each making the experience different. Ramble on the nearby cliff walk or indulge in a seaweed filled copper bath, outside, overlooking the lengthy Ardmore Beach; both a refreshing yet relaxing reset.

Championing Irish produce through global flavours, The House Restaurant has maintained its Michelin Star since 2010. Sustainability and paying homage to local suppliers and artisans is at the forefront of the restaurant's ethos. The team plate up art in food form.

cliffhousehotel.ie

@thehouserestaurant_

The Merrion

Location: Merrion Square, Dublin 2

Restaurant: Patrick Guilbaud - 2 Michelin Stars

A city-centre hotel with a luxurious enclave, just steps away from the busy streets of Dublin, The Merrion is a standout gem in just a handful of luxury hotels to be found in the city centre.

Situated opposite to Ireland's government buildings and National Art Gallery, this is a prestigious area of the city and The Merrion Hotel sits regally inside a row of Georgian townhouses. Home to a gold-standard spa, an impressive selection of curated art pieces and the star of the show - a two Michelin Star restaurant.

Patrick Guilbaud is one of just four restaurants in Ireland to hold a coveted two Michelin Stars. A sophisticated and modern French restaurant with a forty year history, Patrick Guilbaud is located adjacent to The Merrion Hotel. Attentive service and inventive dishes, the pleasing aesthetics extend well beyond the artistic plating.

themerrionhotel.com

@restaurantpatrickguilbaud

Mount Juliet Estate

Location: Thomastown, Co Kilkenny

Restaurant: Lady Helen - 1 Michelin Star

Another five-star hotel on an expansive golf course, Mount Juliet Estate is a country escape with a history of over 250 years.

Set on an expansive country estate complete with golf course, rambling river and stables. Guests can take part in a number of activities from archery to swimming, woodland walks to horse riding. A stone's throw from Ireland's smallest city, medieval Kilkenny.

Epitomising indulgent elegance, Lady Helen serves a seasonal menu of produce grown onsite to deliver a modern take on Irish cuisine. With two dining experiences - either a 7 or 9 course tasting menus - Lady Helen promises palate satisfaction.

mountjuliet.ie

luxury-dining-experience