FIA RUA: THE NEW RESTAURANT AT TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT, BLESSINGTON, CO. WICKLOW

FIA RUA: THE NEW RESTAURANT AT TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT, BLESSINGTON, CO. WICKLOW 

The PREM Group owned Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort in Blessington, Co. Wicklow has been enjoying something of a renaissance in recent times.  Substantial capital works has seen renovations in the ballroom, in the Manor House, on the golf course, in the hotel itself and most recently a brand-new restaurant, ‘Fia Rua’ was created.

The 72-seater restaurant enjoys panoramic views across the 18^th championship golf course to the mountains and the Blessington Lakes and is a spectacular venue to enjoy dinner or a leisurely lunch.

Under the watchful eye of Executive Head Chef, Eddie McDermott the restaurant serves modern Irish cuisine and places a huge emphasis on food provenance.  Local produce features prominently on the menu from local farmhouse cheeses such as Wicklow Ban Brie, sourced from The Wicklow Farmhouse Cheese Company in Arklow, to meat, fish and vegetables.  The chef’s signature dish, 12-hour, pot roasted feather blade of beef is one of the most popular dishes on the menu and is made from beef provided by the well-known, Gahan Meats Family Butchers.

 The restaurant has been completely refurbished by McStan Construction under the supervision of specialist hospitality designer Julie Goggin who expertly mixed hard and soft materials to glorious effect. The décor is elegant and stylish, timber lined windows with feature panelling frame the stunning views while the tan leather upholstered booths provide private and intimate spaces for diners.

Local craftsmen created the joinery which incorporates solid hand worked oak panelling, inset antique mirrors and feature brass shelving. Hand-cut Carrera marble fan mosaics add a really luxurious feel to the space and are inlaid into a smoked oak parquet floor.  Meanwhile, a stunning hand-blown light fitting by Venetian Specialists Giopato and Coombes creates an eye-catching feature in the centre of the room and has been inspired by the great billowing clouds which dramatically cling to the Wicklow Mountain tops.

Julie also used pattern in the fabrics to reflect the Irish garden and the natural world which surrounds Tulfarris. Some of the chairs have been beautifully upholstered with William Morris fabrics and feature some famous patterns and scenes such as the iconic ‘Strawberry Thief’ bird and flower pattern.

Fia Rua will open for diners once government restrictions allow and bookings can be made by (045) 867 609. More details and menus can be seen on the website www.tulfarrishotel.com

FOOD TRAILER DRIVES THE APPETITE AT TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT

 FOOD TRAILER DRIVES THE APPETITE AT  TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT

 

A silver vintage Airstream food trailer is driving appetites at Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort on the shores of the Blessington Lakes. Due to Covid-19 restrictions the Wicklow hotel has not been able to open its restaurants and bars but has come up with a sleek dining solution in the form of a 1970’s, aircraft grade, ‘Tulfarris Silverstream Food Trailer’.

 

The vintage truck will be on site daily from 2-9.00pm and will serve hungry golfers, walkers, and day trippers.  The ‘grab and go’ menu options include dishes such as the Tulfarris famous chicken wings, gourmet beef burgers, the O’Neil’s famous pork and leek hot dog and the super spicy Vietnamese ‘Banh Mi’ Baguette. The menu also includes rustic ‘skin on fries’, squid and haddock goujons, pizza slices and vegetarian and vegan delights and hearty salads.

 

So, if you are out for a walk and are exploring the grounds or teeing off at the Championship Golf Course fill up and fuel up at the Tulfarris Food Truck. Alternatively swing by ‘The Food Hatch’, located at the entrance of the resort which serves artisan coffees, herbal teas and sweet treats all day.

To see the full, sizzling summer menu check out www.tulfarris.com/dining

Go Wild in West Wicklow! When the time is right.

GO WILD IN WEST WICKLOW!

Getting out in nature has never been more important for both our physical and mental health, equally, we all need something to look forward to – a break away from our homes, the drudgery of lockdown and a change of scenery.  So, when the time is right, and when we can all travel again why not consider a socially distanced getaway and go wild in West Wicklow? Walking, hiking and biking and just ‘being in nature’ and the wild countryside helps us to reset our stressed and worried minds and bodies.  Base yourself at Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort in Blessington Co. Wicklow and discover the best the Garden County has to offer with its wild mountains, lakes, forests and verdant valleys.

This stunning, 4-star resort is set on the shores of the Blessington Lakes, at the foot of the Wicklow Mountains.  It comprises of a luxurious hotel which has recently been completely renovated, an 18-hole championship golf course and several self-catering lodges. The Manor House at the heart of the resort dates from the 18^th century and has been sympathetically restored to its former glory, boasting opulent fabrics, open log burning fires and original antique furniture. 

The newest addition to the property is the stunning hotel restaurant, Fia Rua.  It overlooks the 18^th hole of the championship golf course and enjoys incredible vistas across the lakes and to the mountains beyond.  The restaurant is a very large space and has several private booths, allowing for greater social distancing for diners.

Tulfarris has several walking and exploring packages on offer and is ideal for those of us looking to be pampered but also wanting to get out in the fresh air.  Guests on the walking packages can enjoy hikes along The Wicklow Way or strolls around the shores of the Blessington Lakes.  The nearby Blessington Greenway Trail offers walkers a great opportunity to take in lake, mountain and forest vistas all at once. The pretty villages of Ballyknocken, Valleymount and Lacken are also very interesting and within a short drive of Tulfarris.    

 Guests may also easily access the nearby, historic Russborough House, reputed to be the longest house in Ireland.  Russborough is only a short walk away from the hotel and is certainly worth a visit. Designed by Richard Cassels, Russborough was built in 1755 and is a fine example of Palladian architecture. Outside, the walled garden, maze and extensive, mature parkland is a delight to explore with its myriad of ancient, native trees and plants.  The 200-acre estate is also home to the National Bird of Prey Centre where owls, falcons and birds of prey from all over the world can be found.

The Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort ‘Walking In Wicklow’ package includes two nights bed and breakfast, a 3-course dinner in Fia Rua and a picnic lunch and is priced from €189 per person sharing.  Guests will be provided with walking maps and can avail of a 20% discount on admissions to Russborough House. Self-catering options are also available in the onsite three-bedroom cottages while the Manor House is available for exclusive hire upon request (separate, exclusive hire rates apply).

To book the ‘Walking In Wicklow’ package log on to www.tulfarrishotel.com or call (045) 867 600.

TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT -NEW BALLROOM NOW FINISHED- -PREM GROUP INVESTS €7.4 MILLION AT WICKLOW HOTEL-

 

TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT

-NEW BALLROOM NOW FINISHED-

-PREM GROUP INVESTS €7.4 MILLION AT WICKLOW HOTEL-

International hospitality company, PREM Group is well into the second phase of its ambitious renovation plans at the 4-star, Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort in Blessington Co. Wicklow.   The group purchased the 90-bedroom hotel in 2016 and by the end of 2019 had already spent over €6 million on the property in a bid to return the luxury hotel, golf course and 18^th century Manor House to its former glory.  Initial works included the addition of a contemporary clubhouse, all the bunkers were refurbished, two new championship tee boxes were added to the 1^st and 16^th holes and all of the greens were reseeded. In addition, 16 bedrooms were added to the hotel and all of the original bedrooms were upgraded. Meanwhile, a new lobby and new hotel bar were added while several grand reception rooms in the original Manor House were sympathetically restored.

The second phase of the renovation project continued throughout 2020 bringing the total investment figure in the property to €7.4 million.  In spring of this year, the spectacular new restaurant, ‘Fia Rua,’ a stylish and effortlessly chic bistro style eatery overlooking the 18^th green was created.  The work on the restaurant was completed by interior designer, Julie Goggin in March before PREM Group commenced the redesign and renovation of the ‘Russborough Suite’, the ballroom at the hotel. The ballroom renovation, which is now completed, was also overseen by Julie who sought to create a bright, contemporary and elegant space which could be used for weddings, gala dinners or events.

 “The previous space had created many happy memories and hosted a lot of special occasions, however PREM Group wanted to completely revamp the space in order for it to become more attractive, particularly for wedding couples,” said Julie.   “We wanted the space to feel light, luxurious and timeless and created bespoke panelling with inset mirrors to reflect light and add luxury to the room.  The panelling takes its inspiration from the Manor House at Tulfarris and from the nearby, Palladian mansion Russborough House. Essentially, the design is a modern interpretation of a classical ballroom”, said Julie.  “The colours throughout have been kept very pale and soft.  Warm white provides the main backdrop for the scheme while tones of blue provide the accent colours.”

Highly decorative crystal pendant chandeliers bring exemplary focal points to the ballroom and are complemented by hidden uplighters which bathe the bow shaped ceiling in swaths of warm white.

There is a large bar and seating area adjacent to the Russborough Suite which can be partitioned off from the ballroom or couples may opt to have it left entirely open. Here there is a balance between comfortable sofa seating with stone topped cocktail tables, traditional buttoned banquette seating and high bar tables paired with leather clad stools. The bar itself is painted in a deep midnight blue and is topped with natural stone.  Stylish panelling, crystal ceiling and wall lights and bevelled mirrors complete the look to stunning effect.

The new ballroom can comfortably hold 250 guests for dinner on round tables or 320 people theatre style.  A movable stage means wedding or event planners have more flexibility while wedding couples will love the easy and direct access the room has to the stunning gardens and courtyard. 

The redevelopment of the ballroom is aimed at attracting clientele from the wedding and special occasion markets, while the presence of the one AA Rosette award winning Fia Rua restaurant ensures that visitors to the hotel enjoy the finest cuisine served up by Executive Head Chef, Eddie McDermott. All ingredients are sourced locally from Irish farmers and suppliers where possible.

Darren Byrne, General Manager of Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort, said, “We are delighted with all of the works that have taken place here to date.  The aim is to continually innovate, renovate and improve our offering so that our discerning guests and wedding couples can have a memorable experience. The new ballroom is very elegant, and we are looking forward to hosting many special days here in the coming months and years.  We can also host civil ceremonies and humanist celebrations on the resort. The exterior grounds of the resort provide plenty of great locations for outdoor weddings and blessings.”

Jim Murphy, CEO of PREM Group said, “Although 2020 has been a challenging year for our industry we are committed to our plans to redevelop and add to the facilities at Tulfarris.  In 2021 we plan to add a light filled atrium lounge which will connect the original Manor House to the banqueting and conference areas.  We already completely redesigned the Bridal Suite in the Manor House and plan to redesign the remaining bedrooms in the early part of the next year.”

Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort is located just 40 minutes from Dublin and is set against the spectacular backdrop of the Blessington Lakes and Wicklow Mountains. The resort covers 220 acres and includes a luxury 4-star hotel, 18-hole championship golf course, clubhouse, conference centre, banqueting suites, a restaurant and bar and self-catering holiday homes. Set across three peninsulas around the lake shores, the stunning 18-hole championship golf course is a golfer’s paradise and is definitely an exhilarating test for both amateur and pro golfers. The 18^th century Manor House sits at the heart of the resort and its classic design and elegant proportions are typical of the 18^th century architecture of the time.

For more information on Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort or to make a booking see www.tulfarrishotel.com

press release

TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT APPOINTS NEW GM

TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT APPOINTS NEW GM

-Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort, Blessington, Co. Wicklow, Ireland

Darren Byrne (right) has been appointed General Manager of the PREM Group owned Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort in Blessington, Co. Wicklow.   Darren has worked with the PREM Group for many years and was the Food and Beverage Manager at Tulfarris from 2009-2011.  Most recently, he worked at PREM’s Viking Hotel in Waterford where he was the General Manager for the last four years.  During his time at The Viking, Darren collaborated with Douglas Wallace Architects on the €1 million renovation of the well -known, Waterford business hotel.  He also held positions at the Westgrove Hotel in Clane, Co. Kildare and was the Food and Beverage Manager at another PREM property, the four-star Osprey Hotel in Naas.

Jim Murphy, CEO of PREM Group said, “We are delighted that Darren has accepted the position of General Manager at the four-star Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort and wish him well in his new role. He has been with the group for many years and has honed his experience in several of our properties.  As a group, we are always keen to find and nurture talent and many of our employees work their way up to senior positions while working with us. The longevity of our employee service, professionalism and innovation is testament to our training and passion to deliver premier hospitality services.”

For more on Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort see www.tulfarrishotel.com

press release

Three of the best Irish Summer Staycations

press release

ROUND UP OF THE TOP THREE IRISH SUMMER STAYCATIONS

 

Cahernane House

CAHERNANE HOUSE HOTEL, KILLARNEY, KERRY

The Killarney Secret Trails package (€379.50 per person sharing) will allow guests the chance to explore some of Killarney’s (Co. Kerry) most beautiful nature trails.  Neighbours include the magnificent Muckross Abbey, a 15^th century monastery and Muckross House which is the sister property of Cahernane House and was once the residence of Henry Herbert’s brother, the original owner of the house.

Emer Corridan, General Manager of Cahernane House Hotel said, “Traditionally, Killarney is extremely busy all summer with visitors who follow well known tourist trails and who tend to flock to the same places.  In these strange times we live in now, we want to offer our guests the chance to explore some lesser known, quieter beauty spots and will provide maps to some secret trails, such as The Blue Pool, Governor’s Rock, Reenadrina and Killegy Woods. We also hope to show people a different part of Killarney and offer our visitors a chance to rediscover this beautiful part of the world.”  The Killarney Secret Trails package includes three-nights’ accommodation with breakfast each morning, welcome tea and scones on arrival, a 3-course dinner on two evenings with a pre -dinner glass of Prosecco. A picnic lunch is also included on two days for guests to enjoy while they explore some of Killarney’s lesser known, ‘secret trails’.

For more details or to book the Killarney Secret Trails package see www.cahernane.com or call Cahernane House Hotel on +353 (064) 6631895.

LYRATH ESTATE, KILKENNY

The Lyrath Estate Staycation Package at the Five-Star Lyrath Estate in Kilkenny is available as a 2,3- or 5-night package and includes bed and breakfast, lunch, tea and cake and dinner each evening (from €400 per adult sharing). The170 acre estate offers guests a myriad of outdoor activities to enjoy in its new ‘staycation’ packages including archery, fishing, and learning how to fly your own bird of prey.  There are also skincare talks, yoga classes, whiskey tastings, cocktail making classes and cooking with the chef in the outdoor, covered BBQ pavilion.  Other facilities at the luxury resort include a swimming pool and gym, the award-winning Oasis Spa, several restaurants, and bars and even a private cinema. 

If you have been home schooling and stuck at home with bored children, then look no further than the Lyrath Estate Summer Family Break.  This summer make some five-star memories with your children without having to lift a finger yourself! Children will love the swimming pool, games room, fairy trail, complimentary bicycles, playground, zip wire and the mini football pitch.  If it is a wet day the hotel’s 22-seater private cinema can be booked out for a private family cinema viewing. The Lyrath Estate Summer Family Break costs €210 per adult sharing and includes two nights bed and breakfast and dinner on one evening for the adults.  Interconnecting rooms are available, while the cost for children, sharing with their parents aged between 4-12 is charged at just €25 per night.

If you are looking for a romantic break away and an opportunity to reconnect with your loved one, you could choose the ‘Your Summer Story Package’ (€210 per adult sharing). It includes two nights bed and breakfast, dinner on one evening and cream tea on an afternoon of your choice. 

To book your great five-star Kilkenny Escape now log on to www.lyrath.com or call + 353 (0) 56 7760088.

TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT, BLESSINGTON, CO. WICKLOW

-ENJOY THE ROYAL TREATMENT AT THE EXCLUSIVE MANOR HOUSE AT TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT-

The Manor House at Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort in Blessington, Co. Wicklow (Ireland) dates back over 200 years but the origins of the estate on which it stands can be traced back to the 12^th century. Situated on the shores of the stunning Blessington Lakes the house has been a private home to noble families, military leaders and to sports stars. You can now be part of the history and story of Tulfarris and experience all of the splendour that this beautiful ‘Grand Dame’ has to offer as the 18^th Century, Manor House at Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort is now available for exclusive hire.

In these strange pandemic times exclusive hire can often be an attractive option for families who want to come together but still remain within their own small group.  The Manor House at Tulfarris provides people with a unique opportunity to holiday together but apart from others. It is also extremely rare to find a property that offers complete privacy, yet offers a full service complete with extensive dining offerings.

With its classic Georgian design and elegant proportions, the house has been completely restored to bring it back to its former glory.  It now includes 7 luxurious bedrooms which have been decorated in heritage colours and fabrics, evocative of the style in which the house was built. Modern and contemporary facilities and comforts have been sympathetically added to the old building while not impinging on its historical design.

On the ground floor there are two elegant reception rooms, a library and a dining room, which offer relaxed spaces for families and friends to gather. The spectacular dining room can seat 14 people for dinner and provides an elegant space for friends to gather and enjoy a private dinner.  The various drawing rooms with their Italian marble fireplaces are comfortable spots to sit and enjoy an after-dinner drink or a chat or simply to lounge around, reading, watching movies, or playing family board games.

The exclusive hire of the Manor House at Tulfarris includes bed and breakfast, private dining in the drawing room a half a bottle of wine per person and a prosecco reception on arrival.  Breakfast is also served in the drawing room so that guests staying at the Manor House do not need to go to the main hotel during their stay if they so wish. 

Children will love to explore the vast estate which surrounds the Manor House which is home to foxes, rabbits, otters, squirrels and deer which walk freely around the estate.  Little touches such as milk and cookies at turndown service, board games and arts and craft materials for children are popular with the little ones and help make special memories. The cost for the exclusive hire of the 7-bedroom Manor House to include bed, breakfast and dinner is €3,010 per night.

FANCY THE ROYAL TREATMENT AT THE EXCLUSIVE MANOR HOUSE AT TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT

TO THE MANOR BORN!

-ENJOY THE ROYAL TREATMENT AT THE EXCLUSIVE MANOR HOUSE AT TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT-

(BLESSINGTON, WICKLOW, IRELAND)

The Manor House at Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort in Blessington, Co. Wicklow (Ireland) dates back over 200 years but the origins of the estate on which it stands can be traced back to the 12^th century. Situated on the shores of the stunning Blessington Lakes the house has been a private home to noble families, military leaders and to sports stars. You can now be part of the history and story of Tulfarris and experience all of the splendour that this beautiful ‘Grand Dame’ has to offer as the 18^th Century, Manor House at Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort is now available for exclusive hire.

In these strange pandemic times exclusive hire can often be an attractive option for families who want to come together but still remain within their own small group.  The Manor House at Tulfarris provides people with a unique opportunity to holiday together but apart from others. It is also extremely rare to find a property that offers complete privacy, yet offers a full service complete with extensive dining offerings

The Manor House, with its classic Georgian design and elegant proportions has been completely restored to bring it back to its former glory.  It now includes seven luxurious bedrooms which have been decorated in heritage colours and fabrics, evocative of the style in which the house was built. Modern and contemporary facilities and comforts have been sympathetically added to the old building while not impinging on its historical design.

On the ground floor there are two elegant reception rooms, a library and a dining room, which offer relaxed spaces for families and friends to gather. The spectacular dining room can seat 14 people for dinner and provides an elegant space for friends to gather and enjoy a private dinner.  The various drawing rooms with their Italian marble fireplaces are comfortable spots to sit and enjoy an after-dinner drink or a chat or simply to lounge around, reading, watching movies, or playing family board games.

All to yourself!

The exclusive hire of the Manor House at Tulfarris includes bed and breakfast, private dining in the drawing room a half a bottle of wine per person and a prosecco reception on arrival.  Breakfast is also served in the drawing room so that guests staying at the Manor House do not need to go to the main hotel during their stay if they so wish.  Children will love to explore the vast estate which surrounds the Manor House which is home to foxes, rabbits, otters, squirrels and deer which walk freely around the estate.  Little touches such as milk and cookies at turndown service, board games and arts and craft materials for children are popular with the little ones and help make special memories. The cost for the exclusive hire of the 7-bedroom Manor House to include bed, breakfast and dinner is €3,010 per night.

Musical entertainment can be arranged each evening while daytime activities such as archery, falconry or clay pigeon shooting can be arranged upon request (additional costs will apply).  Golfers can enjoy preferential golf rates at the onsite 18-hole championship course while lessons with the club professional, Tom O’Neil are also available for both adults and children. 

Locally, there are some interesting places to explore including the Palladian mansion at Russborough House which is also home to the National Bird of Prey Centre. The nearby Blessington Greenway links the historic town of Blessington with Russborough House and offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Families may like to bring their bikes along and cycle the Greenway, exploring the local area. The chef will happily prepare a delicious picnic upon request.  

For all of its old-world charm and grandeur, the Manor House has all of the modern comforts a discerning guest would expect including luxurious and spacious ensuite bedrooms with premium bathroom amenities and complimentary Wi-Fi and HD Television.  Exclusive hire of the Manor House at Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort starts at €3,010 for per night. For more details please call + 353 (0) 45 867600 or see www.tulfarrishotel.com

press release 

PREM GROUP CEO CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION TO SUPPORT HOSPITALITY SECTOR

PREM GROUP CEO CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE ACTION

 TO SUPPORT HOSPITALITY SECTOR

Cahernane House Hotel, Killarney. A morning view from  bedroom

Jim Murphy, CEO of Irish based international hospitality giant PREM Group has called for an immediate review of the reopening dates for hotels.  Under the current COVID- 19 government roadmap hotels are not due to open until the 20^th of July, which Murphy says will be far too late for hotels to try and salvage what will be left of the summer season. 

“There is no doubt that the government, the Chief Medical Office and the Irish public have done tremendous work in tackling and suppressing the coronavirus.   It is now, however time to urgently deal with the detrimental economic consequences that this virus has left in its wake.  Under the current roadmap restaurants can open for diners and guests at the end of June, this includes restaurants in hotels. However, those same diners can’t then stay at the very hotel in which they have dined. This seems ludicrous, if someone can go out and eat in a space where there are other people around them then it’s reasonable to think that it’s even safer for that same guest to move to their own, private hotel room after they have dined?  We would urgently call on the government to bring forward the planned reopening date for hotels, however if this were to happen the 20km travel restriction would also have to be lifted.  The travel restriction and the reopening date cannot be reviewed in isolation and must be addressed immediately in order to tackle a potential catastrophic crisis which the tourism and hospitality industry is facing.”

PREM Group was established in 1996 and is an international hospitality business operating in Ireland, the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. It owns and operates 38 properties and has 2,990 bedrooms across the various properties which include aparthotels operated under the PREMIER SUITES brand, business and leisure hotels, golf resorts and country house properties.  Hotels in Ireland which are owned by PREM Group include Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort, Wicklow, Osprey Hotel, Naas, Cahernane House Hotel, Killarney and The Hoban Hotel, Kilkenny.   The group has 1,046 people under direct report, 83% of these employees have now been laid off.

“We have great staff and a team of people who manage and run our hotels and properties as well as our business supports divisions which include our hospitality management division PREM Hospitality, RateWise, Sprint Digital, Trinity Hotel Groups, Rewards From Us To You, and our Premier Business Centres. All of these people are keen to get back to work, indeed the hospitality industry as a whole is very keen to get people back to work.  Hospitality staff are the backbone of our economy and are particularly important in rural areas which are dependent on tourism. There are now over 260,000 hospitality workers laid off in this country.  If the government do not take decisive, clear, and immediate action many small hotels and hospitality outlets may never trade again. There is also too much confusion and debate around the 1 metre versus 2 metre distance rule and too much uncertainty around VAT, business supports and the continuation of the job subsidy scheme.”

View from the dining room at Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort

Murphy believes that the government must listen to hospitality groups such as the IHF and IBEC who have been urgently calling for various measures to be put in place such as the removal of quarantine restrictions and the replacement of the 2 metre social distancing measure to 1 metres.

From a practical point of view the hospitality industry needs urgent support,” he said, “liquidity measures and business grants must be put in place to help tourism businesses to survive.  There are huge extra costs now associated with doing business in a COVID- 19 or post pandemic world, there is more training required for staff, strict and comprehensive cleaning and sterilizing and greatly reduced capacity for guests. We have to operate with more costs and fewer guests.”

“Our many hotel and hospitality colleagues have constantly asked for the reduction in tourism VAT.   This is so important and would secure the viability of Irish tourism into the future. ‘When we travel again’ is a hashtag that has been used a lot by many tourism outlets, but don’t forget that when our international visitors travel again Ireland must be seen as good value, we must be able to compete against popular tourism destinations abroad.” He also added that the job subsidy scheme for tourism and hospitality should be continued and that local authority rates and charges should be abolished for at least 12 months to allow businesses to get back up and running again.

He went on to say, “We have several properties which we own or operate right across Europe, our Belgian properties can open on the 8^th of June and on the 1^{st of} July we will open our flagship PREMIER SUITES PLUS property in Amsterdam.   If we can do business in Continental Europe then why not here?  We are falling way behind our European counterparts and our economy is suffering as a result. We are already providing accommodation for frontline and essential workers at several of our Irish hotels where we have strict COVID-19 protocols in place for months, why not apply the same procedures now for guests?  Our team and staff have been trained in our new procedures which include actions such as contactless check in at reception, extra deep cleaning of rooms and public spaces, social distancing and best practice at our spas and health centres. Ireland is way behind now, other countries are jumping ahead, and we are in real danger of losing the season.” 

The new PREMIER SUITES PLUS property in Amsterdam includes 88 luxurious one-bedroom units, 26 two-bedroom apartments and 1 three-bedroom apartment. The units have been designed with the medium to long stay business traveller in mind and are furnished with a fully equipped kitchen with combi-oven, microwave, hob, fridge, freezer, washing/dryer machine and coffee machine. There is also include a modern living area with a flat screen TV and luxury hotel bed from the Seventh Heaven range. Bathrooms are equipped with a power-shower and luxurious toiletries are provided. A housekeeping service is also being offered to residents once a week while a reception team is available 24/7.

PREM Group has extensive experience in the aparthotel space and the Amsterdam property is the group’s second serviced aparthotel property to open in Holland under the PREMIER SUITES PLUS brand having opened in Rotterdam in 2017.  PREMIER SUITES PLUS Amsterdam is PREM Group’s 16^th aparthotel product and is now its flagship property due to its luxurious finish, fit out and prime location.

“If decisive, clear and immediate measures are not put in place for the hospitality and tourism industry here in Ireland it will take years for it to recover,” said Murphy.  “The Irish government must now take urgent action and allow hotels to open now or at the very latest at the end of June, not in July or it will be too late in the season and may do irreversible damage to an already fragile hospitality industry.”

press release

AN OASIS OF TRANQUILITY IN BEAUTIFUL BLESSINGTON

Media release

AN OASIS OF TRANQUILITY IN BEAUTIFUL BLESSINGTON

-EXPLORE THE GARDEN COUNTY FROM TULFARRIS HOTEL AND GOLF RESORT, CO. WICKLOW-

There are so many beautiful spaces in Wicklow to be explored from the Blessington Lakes covering over 5000 acres of glistening water, the 6^th Century Glendalough Monastery to the spectacular Wicklow Mountains. Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort, Blessington, Co. Wicklow has two packages centred around exploring the very best of Ireland’s Ancient East.

The Beautiful Blessington Package is a two-night bed and breakfast package (from €149 per person sharing) designed for the outdoor enthusiast. Guests can explore the majestic Wicklow Mountains, stroll leisurely in the great outdoors and soak up the peace and tranquility of Ireland’s Ancient East. Guests will be given a touring map of the best walking routes around the area along with a freshly prepared picnic as they set off on their adventure around the Blessington Greenway. Later, guests can sit back and relax over a three-course meal served in the newly refurbished Fia Rua restaurant with spectacular panoramic views of the Blessington Lakes.  

The Active Wicklow Package is designed for guests who love an action-packed getaway! This 2 night/ 3-day experience includes bed and breakfast (from €209 per person sharing) and offers the best of both worlds with active days and luxurious nights at the heart of the package. The package includes a half day experience at CP Adventures, dinner on one evening, touring maps of Wicklow and a freshly prepared picnic.

After checking in, guests can begin their activities with a hike to Lugnaquilla peak, standing at 925 metres tall, Lugnaquilla is the highest mountain in Ireland outside of Kerry. Tulfarris will provide guests with a freshly prepared picnic so guests can enjoy lunch whilst taking in the picturesque scenery from the top of the mountain.

The second day, guests can enjoy a half day experience with CP Adventures where there is a range of activities on offer including zipline, climbing walls, archery, bungee trampolines, abseiling, orienteering, clay pigeon shooting, canoeing, paddle boarding and kayaking.

All the fun filled activities in the fresh Wicklow air is sure to work up an appetite! Guests can enjoy a three-course evening meal in Fia Rua Restaurant that evening while experiencing the breathtaking views of Tulfarris lakeside setting.

Before checking out, guests can explore the Blessington Greenway. This is a 6.5km walk along the shores of Blessington Lake linking the town of Blessington with the 18^th Century Russborough House. It passes close to the deserted medieval settlement of Burgage More, where there is a ruined castle. The beautiful scenery around the lake, with the backdrop of the Wicklow Mountains, can be enjoyed on foot or by bicycle with the terrain also suitable for buggies. 

Glendalough is a must visit when exploring the Garden County. This historic site is home to one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. This early Christian monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and from this developed the “Monastic City”. Most of the buildings that survive today date from the 10th to the 12th centuries. Despite attacks by Vikings over the years, Glendalough thrived as one of Ireland’s great religious foundations and schools of learning until the Normans destroyed the monastery in 1214 A.D.

Situated just 40 minutes from Dublin, Tulfarris enjoys a location steeped in history, heritage and extraordinary scenery. The resort comprises of a luxury 4-star hotel, 18-hole championship golf course, clubhouse, conference centre, banqueting suites, an award-winning restaurant and bar. The 18th century Manor House sits at the heart of the resort and its classic design and elegant proportions are typical of the 18th century architecture of the time.

PREM Group purchased the 90-bedroom hotel in 2016 and since then have already spent over €6 million on the property to return the luxury 18th century Manor House and its surrounding grounds to their former glory. The initial renovation programme saw 16 new bedrooms being added to the Wicklow property while the bridal suite, foyer, drawing and library rooms of the Manor House have been tastefully transformed to enhance the wedding experience at the luxury resort. 

For more information on Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort or to make a booking see www.tulfarrishotel.com or call (045) 867 600

Golf for sure at Tulfarris but Wine and Dine Scores Well Also

Golf for sure at Tulfarris but Wine and Dine Scores Well Also

Toons Bridge Fior di Latte Mozzarella

Attention of golf fans will be focused on Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort at the end of the month, when The PREM Group Irish Masters takes place there from the 28th to the 30th. The Sky Sports cameras will be present, filming the action on the spectacular golf course and no doubt taking in the lovely Wicklow countryside. With the package being screened in 138 countries, the event should prove to be a major boost for the hotel and its golf course and also for tourism in the area and indeed in the country.

The course and hotel are looking splendid as I found out on a recent visit, arranged to highlight the golf tournament. PREM have spent some six million here in recent years and the majority of it has gone into improving the hotel and surrounds. And it shows. It is already a popular place. When we arrived late on a Sunday afternoon, we walked into the bar for a cuppa and were amazed at the buzz there. By the way, they have their own Tulfarris ale and it’s a pretty tasty drop.

Breakfast view from the restaurant

Thinking about it afterwards, the Tulfarris hotel is quite a handy base, not just for golf (by the way admission is free for the tournament at the end of the month) but also for visiting attractions in the area. It is just about twenty minutes from Exit 12 on the motorway and we used it to visit the Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre and enjoyed the factory tour, the Museum of Style Icons, the shop (of course) and also a light lunch in the busy café, a stylish bright and airy place. 

The following morning, we called to Russborough House, just a few minutes away from Tulfarris, and did the full tour there. Finished up with a cuppa and pastry in the house café and, just over two hours later, were back in Cork.

Other places to visit with Tulfarris as a base, include Kildare Village, Punchestown Racecourse, the Wicklow Mountains (including the Sally Gap) and Glendalough. Of course, the Blessington lakes and the Poulaphouca reservoir are close by.

After all that mountain climbing, walking and shopping, you’ll need to refuel and Tulfarris will sort you out in the Lime Tree Restaurant which has great views over the golf course. Here, they promise a mix of world cuisine with the best of Irish. Indeed, Irish producers and suppliers are used as much as possible.

And I was able to check that out straight away with my starter: Toons Bridge Fior di Latte Mozzarella (Peas, mint, pea-shoots, Wicklow Rapeseed oil and crispy bread). Delicious. Meanwhile, CL was singing the praises of her Vine Ripened Tomato Terrine (Heritage tomatoes, basil emulsion, olives), quite different and also very tasty.

Elderflower semi-freddo

We were onto the wine now. Butterfly Ridge blends went down well. The Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon was vibrant, fruity and soft on the palate while the Riesling Gewürztraminer was a perfect match with the fish dishes on offer.

One was the Pan-roasted fillets of plaice with hazelnut, charred cauliflower and spinach, quite a delicious combination. Being in Wicklow, I couldn’t resist the local lamb served with courgette, goats cheese and elderflower. Another winner, especially with that red wine.

Wicklow lamb

Sleep well!

Would we have dessert? Of course! And they had some tempting ones of offer, including Eton Mess, Hazelnut mousse, Pannacotta. I choose the Baked Raspberry and White chocolate cheesecake while CL’s pick was the Elderflower semi-freddo (with gooseberries, oak crumb and elderflower jelly). Both were excellent but I think she may have picked the better one! 

Happy out with that, though we did have time enough for a few more chats, not all of them golf related, before the enjoyable evening came to a close!

We had a terrific ground floor room here, with lots of space and comfort (bed and armchairs), and everything we needed, including hair drier, iron, safe, coffee machine, large TV and faultless WiFi. The bathroom too was spacious, very well lit, separate bath and shower and excellent Elemis toiletries.

For more on The PREM Group Irish Masters, please check here.
See also: Museum of Style Icons
Decorator to the Stars Designed Newbridge Silver Café
Dining at Russborough House