Weekender

Aoife Hearne’s Cork

A weekend away; oh, the bliss of it!

An ideal weekend away from the kids right now involves a lot of sleeping — that’s what happens when you have three under four! It would also be somewhere close to home in Waterford, but far enough to feel like you’re away.

Cork really is the ideal location

and because weekends away are few and far between, it has to have some luxury, so I love to stay in Hayfield Manor. Knowing me, we would arrive late Friday evening,

for a quick bite and straight to bed, with the smug realisation that no one can interrupt my night’s sleep.

On Saturday, we’d have late breakfast in the hotel.

Hayfield Manor does breakfast like no other! I start with fruit, though my downfall is pastries. and I love their

pain au chocolat. Midmorning it’s straight to the spa for me. Then, the afternoon going around the shops, or maybe out to Blarney for a walk.

On Saturday night, we’d definitely catch up with friends.

If I get my way, we’d go to Tequilla Jacks, as Mexican food is one of my favourites and I can never pass up a good margarita.

Sunday brunch is possibly my favourite meal

and anywhere that serves sauteed potatoes is good for me. I love Cafe Velo, in George’s Quay, but also Blackrock Castle, as we can get in a walk before we head home to the craziness. Aoife Hearne is a registered dietitian known for her work on ‘Operation Transformation’. She is an ambassador for Bord Bia’s National Potato Day on Friday, October 5; see potato.ie