Festive Escapes With Emerald Experiences

FOR seasonal escapes at Ireland's finest hotels and resorts, visit www.emeraldexperiences.co.uk  where you'll find a host of great offers.

Relax by the fire at historic Castle Leslie Estate (pictured above) in County Monaghan, explore the expansive grounds or spoil yourself in the Victorian Treatment Rooms at this celeb haunt. The Country Getaway package costs £242 including two nights' accommodation with a hearty full Irish breakfast daily and a relaxing candlelit dinner one evening in the 2 AA Rosette winning Snaffles Restaurant. 



If you're looking for somewhere to celebrate New Year in truly spectacular style then check out Dromoland Castle – a favourite of Bono's – where you can enjoy a cocktail reception and gourmet black tie dinner, plus fantastic fireworks over Loch Dromoland, with two-night packages for a family of four from £859 from December 30 to January 2. You could also extend your trip and take in Family Day at Limerick Races on December 29 , where you'll find a family show, kids' disco, face painting and balloon modelling. 



For those seeking a January escape to beat the blues after the party season ends, then a blissful break at Wineport Lodge in the Irish Lakelands is the answer. Walk off the Christmas calories with the local walking routes provided and unwind in the Treatment Suite with some serious pampering. Two night packages with full Irish breakfast and one dinner in the hotel's famed restaurant start at £304 per room. 



For flights to Ireland visit www.ryanair.com and www.aerlingus.com