Our early morning flight from Copenhagen landed smoothly in Dublin, where a soft Irish summer breeze greeted us as we stepped outside. After picking up our rental car, we were just a 30-minute drive from the heart of our tranquil escape — the enchanting Carton House, nestled in the lush countryside of County Kildare.

As we turned onto the long, tree-lined driveway, the historic estate slowly revealed itself like a scene from a fairytale. The grandeur of the house came into view, and with it, the unmistakable feeling that we had arrived somewhere truly special. The welcome at reception was warm and genuine — Irish hospitality at its finest. After dropping off our bags, we took a walk around the grounds to soak in our surroundings. Rolling green lawns, elegant woodlands, and birdsong on the breeze gave us our first taste of Carton House’s peaceful beauty.

With appetites growing, we headed to The Carriage House for a leisurely lunch. Nestled beside the championship golf courses, the restaurant blends casual elegance with gourmet flair. From the creamy soup to the perfectly cooked cod and indulgent desserts, every bite was a delight. Recharged, we explored the historic mansion and sprawling grounds.

Carton House was built in 1739 by the powerful Fitzgerald family. Walking its grand corridors and ornate rooms, we could almost hear echoes of aristocratic gatherings and political intrigue. Each space was steeped in history, with carefully preserved details offering a window into the past. The estate is also home to two world-class golf courses: the classic O’Meara and the bold, modern Montgomerie. Even as non-golfers, we appreciated their sculpted beauty.

That evening, we dined at Kathleen’s Kitchen, set in the mansion’s original kitchen. Rustic beams, exposed brick, and warm vintage lighting created a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Dinner was memorable — flavorful starters, tender duck breast, and that unforgettable truffle cauliflower. As the sun set, we enjoyed a quiet stroll through the estate. Golden light danced on the mansion’s façade, wrapping the evening in magic.

The next morning began with a peaceful walk through the Rose Garden, followed by a relaxed breakfast — strong coffee, fresh pastries, and the soft morning sun streaming into the dining room. Later, we visited Tyrconnell Tower, a proud symbol of the estate. From its base, we took in sweeping views of the grounds and golf courses — a sight that captured the estate’s full charm. Before my spa appointment, we lingered over a light lunch in the sun-drenched courtyard. The shrimp salad, more cod, and another helping of truffle cauliflower reminded us just how exceptional the dining is at Carton House.

While at the spa, I discovered SEABODY, a luxury Irish skincare and wellness brand rooted in science, sustainability, and the power of the sea. Their marine-powered formulas use bioactives sustainably extracted from organic Irish seaweed using zero-waste technologies, delivering targeted benefits — from sea to self. At the helm is Dr. Helena McMahon, a pioneering cellular biochemist from Ireland’s Atlantic coast. With over 20 years of experience in biotechnology and natural bioactives, she’s the force behind SEABODY’s science-led, eco-conscious products. A standout is Maraderm, a proprietary marine ingredient that supports smoother, more radiant skin. Today, SEABODY is stocked in five-star hotels across Ireland, England, and Scotland — including Carton House. All products are vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainable.The SEABODY spa experience was nothing short of sublime — a flowing massage followed by a rejuvenating facial left me feeling completely restored. The therapists were outstanding, and the serene, private setting elevated the experience even more.

For our final evening, we returned to The Carriage House — the soup was just as delicious the second time — paired with wine and beautifully prepared seafood. A perfect close to our dreamy weekend. On our last morning, we took one more peaceful walk. Breakfast was served outdoors in the sunshine — velvety avocado toast, fresh coffee, and meaningful conversation. We lingered as long as we could before packing our bags. As we drove back to Dublin Airport, the car filled with laughter and that contented silence that comes from truly unwinding. Carton House had given us everything we needed — and more. Thank you for the unforgettable stay, the genuine hospitality, and the memories we’ll cherish. We already can’t wait to return.

The Carton House:

The Garden: