Festive escapes and tasty feasts in Cork this Christmas 

Picture this: No meal planning; no frantic Christmas grocery shop, or wondering how you’re going to get that enormous turkey in the fridge. No washing up…

As much as I secretly love the hustle and bustle of Christmas, I dream of one year whisking off to a picture-perfect hotel complete with crackling log fire, exquisite food, fizzy on tap, bubble baths - and no washing up!

I am not alone; some of Cork’s finest hotels now offer exquisite festive experiences. Imagine three days of luxury; or switching things up and celebrating with a feast during Twixmas and spending Christmas Day at home in pyjamas with chocolate for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

I am here for the luxury and glamour; bring on the chic and elegant venues!

So, where’s good in and around Cork? Here are some festive escapes and feasts that have tickled my fancy this year…

Festive Afternoon Tea and Party Nights at Vienna Woods Hotel

www.viennawoodshotel.com

Close enough to the city for a stop off after a spot of festive sightseeing, but far enough away to feel like an escape, Vienna Woods Hotel awaits. Indulge in Afternoon Tea with freshly baked scones, dainty sandwiches and cakes, perfect for that seasonal catch-up with friends (from €39.50).

Or book in for one of their famous party nights to kick the season off in style with a glass of prosecco on arrival, four-course dinner, band, DJ and late bar (€79). Can’t find a pet sitter for your furry family? Book in overnight into one of their pet-friendly rooms!

Christmas Eve Lunch at Maryborough House Hotel

www.maryborough.com

As one of Cork’s premier venues for weddings, you can expect Maryborough House to channel the pure romanticism of the festive period in this 18th century Georgian mansion near Douglas.

What better place to tick every item off your gift list and ease into Yuletide than with an elegant lunch on Christmas Eve! A three-course lunch is served up with a festive twist for €59 pp.

Festive Chef’s Table Experience at Canopy Restaurant, Castlemartyr 

www.castlemartyrresort.ie/canopy-restaurant

The perfect festive treat for the gourmet in your life, the Chef’s Table experience at Canopy Restaurant affords a unique view into the fast-paced kitchen as head chef, Kevin Burke, and his team serve up their seasonal menu inspired by the best produce from Cork and beyond.

The Chef’s Table experience promises “glorious seclusion with your chosen dining company” that melds the buzz of the kitchen with the buzz of the restaurant floor. Make it extra special, stay overnight at Cork’s only hotel to win a prestigious Michelin Key.

Christmas Magic for Residents Only at Hayfield Manor

www.hayfieldmanor.ie

Five-star glamour at beautiful Hayfield Manor, steeped in history and a by-word for luxury for nearly three decades. The hotel’s interior décor changes with the seasons, but comes into its own at Christmas with grand spruces in the lobby, twinkling lights, and richly festive colours. Now, imagine this being your home for Christmas!

Beautifully appointed rooms, gourmet food, entertainment, and pure indulgence. It begins with a seasonally themed drinks reception with festive nibbles, full Irish breakfast each morning, turndown service with gift each evening, Christmas Day lunch, Christmas Day Champagne Toast, Christmas Day buffet supper, festive entertainment including carols and mulled wine, and St Stephen’s Night supper. Plus, a special visit from Santa Claus!

If you’re in need of even more rejuvenation, The Beautique Spa on-site at the hotel is open from St Stephen’s Day. (From €1,950 pp).

Celebrate Cork-mas at The Metropole Hotel

www.themetropolehotel.ie/offer/christmas-2-night-stay

With Corkmas and the new Winterlee festival, spending Christmas in the heart of Cork city has never looked so magical!

The Metropole Hotel has it all on its doorstep and this year launches its special Christmas Experience for a two- or three-night stay which includes festive treats, a five-course Christmas dinner, movies, entertainment and a visit from Santa Claus for the younger guests.

Lots of treats, from mince pies and mulled wine to Christmas cards, gifts and cookies in festively decorated guest rooms, buffet suppers, lavish lunches, cocktails, entertainment, a visit from Father Christmas, plus festive movies screen in the cinema room – all for residents only! (From €890 p/stay.)

Twixmas in Glengarriff at Eccles Hotel

www.eccleshotel.com

The time between Christmas and New Year’s is perfect for a relaxing break away after the hectic business of hosting.

Take a two- or three-night staycation to Ireland’s oldest spa hotel; relax and unwind by a roaring open fire, take a walk through charming Glengarriff, or simply sit and enjoy the panoramic views of Bantry Bay.

Dinner is served in the elegant restaurant each night with one of the best breakfasts in West Cork cooked to order each morning. (From €243 p/night).

New Year’s Eve in Style at Liss Ard Estate

www.lissardestate.ie

West Cork’s beautiful Relais & Chateaux property boasts an elegant Georgian mansion house, acres of native woodland for walks, a boating lake, and the unique Sky Garden. It’s the place to be for ringing in the New Year with a little Great Gatsby vibe!

A very special evening begins with champagne, a choice of three-course set or five-course tasting menu, more champers to ring in the New Year, live music, and a DJ playing in the cocktail bar until the wee hours! (From €230 p/night).