Retreat thecountry to
Farnham Estate allows you to just get away from it all surrounded by nature
EVERY time I drive up the pathway through the golf course to Farnham Estate, it feels like I’m leaving the real world behind.
With 11km of walks and woodland, this truly is a place to just escape and lose yourself in the peace and tranquility of your surroundings, as the 1,300-acre country estate on the outskirts of Cavan Town takes full advantage of its natureheavy location.
The bright and airy reception area always feels buzzing but retreat to one of the many quieter rooms just off it to fully embrace the country house feel.
Indulge in afternoon tea in the Music Room, with a blazing fire, old-style gramophone and fabulous views across the grounds.
Delicious sandwiches are accompanied by fresh scones and delectable desserts — add a prosecco or champagne to toast a special occasion.
One of my favourite pastimes when in Farnham is trying to uncover yet another hideaway — of which there are many, both indoors and outdoors. There’s a swing bench with a table, perfect for a spring picnic, or copious areas overlooking the lake where you can simply rest and take in the views.
Then, of course, there is the stunning spa. The 44,000 sq ft area was designed by Heinz Schletterer, whose previous projects include spas at the Waldorf Astoria in New York, Sandy Lane in Barbados and the Queen Mary cruise liner.
For me, the indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool is the highlight, with the latter enjoying incredible views of the estate. These can also be enjoyed from the relaxation rooms and the Water Mint thermal suite. ESPA and Yon-Ka products are used for treatments and I can highly recommend the ESPA Signature Treatment. This begins with a foot massage, followed by a back, neck and shoulder massage, finished off by a personalised facial and a scalp massage.
Your therapist will help you choose which oil is best suited to your needs and you will be utterly floating after it.
Having looked at those views for so long, you have to get closer to them, following one of the estate’s many designated walks. Choose the length and intensity you require and signs will bring you on a nature-filled journey through ancient forest, rolling meadows and pristine lakeland.
Having worked up an appetite, there are several options for food. Cedar’s Steakhouse offers some incredible grilled delights, with starters such as pheasant & girolles terrine served with soft brioche and plum chutney; braised beef cheek, Bourguignon style with roasted barley; and pressed charcoal leek & soft goat’s cheese.
Mains obviously focus on individual and sharing steaks, but also include Hampshire pork; grilled monkfish steak on the bone; skewered wild prawns and free range chicken saltimbocca. Be sure to leave room for desserts such as ice-cream Affogato, vegan dark chocolate mousse, a tart or sundae of the day.
Meanwhile at Maxwells, the table d’hote menu features delights such as crab fish cake and dill & gincured salmon lox, Asian style pork belly and rhubarb blueberry mess.
There are other dining options available at the golf club and spa too so you will never go hungry.
The Jeff Howes-designed golf course is located in a beautiful setting that is sure to distract you as you tee off but there’s no harm in taking in the views as you line up a putt.
Finish off your day at the Wine Goose Cellar Bar, which not only has a vast selection of wine but will also often feature live music to entertain you as you enjoy your tipple.
Cocktail specialist Davide can also shake up some wonderful concoctions, such as Amalfi Coast Spritz, Spiced Gin & Tonic, Berry Velvet or Spumante Prosecco Ca di Ponti.
After a luxurious sleep in the incredibly comfortable beds, enjoy a cooked or continental breakfast before you drive back down that driveway and back to reality, promising as always to return soon.