Sabbatikos

After several days in Dublin, and a day trip to Knowth and Game of Thrones Studios, we started our driving tour across the Irish countryside. Our destination was ultimately the rustic and remote Dingle Peninsula. But first we wanted a little pampering which we found near Kilkenny, at the Mount Juliet Estate. Only an hour and a half drive from Dublin, the Mount Juliet Estate is a stunning example of a Georgian manor house set on acres and acres of lush rolling green Irish hills (and a Jack Nicklaus designed golf course).

We felt awkward rolling up in our Škoda Kodiaq (quite possibly one of the most unintuitive cars I’ve ever driven), as every other car parked at the estate adorned a luxury emblem. I avoided the valet and found a inconspicuous spot towards the back of the lot.

Inspired by our trip the day before to the Game of Thrones Studios we signed ourselves up for some afternoon archery lessons. One of us channeled her inner Katniss Everdeen to prove she was a natural, and landed several effortless bullseyes, putting the rest of us to shame (except Tawny, who also landed some solid shots).

Ian and I tried our luck at the driving range while the ladies sipped champagne and ate dainty food at the club house watching us create divots and duffs.

One of the reasons we had chosen the Mount Juliet Estate was the Michelin starred Lady Helen restaurant located in the 260 year old manor house. Unfortunately, we found that the Lady Helen restaurant was closed the night we were there, so we had to take our dinner at The Hound (a casual dining option) which proved to be fine, but wasn’t going to be winning Michelin stars anytime soon.

That evening we stumbled upon the private movie theatre located in the basement of the manor house. We had the place to ourselves, with comfortable recliners, popcorn, cocktails, and our own selection of films (we watched Murder on The Orient Express).

Clara and Tawny rose early to go on an arranged horseback riding excursion across the expansive estate.

I opted for a self-guided nature walk along the River Nore. It was a tranquil dew-laden walk through the fields and meadows of the Mount Juliet Estate.