Jetsettersblog

The whole family will thrill to the sight of the Dromoland School of Falconry’s feathered friends

Newmarket-on-Fergus, IRE. — What could be better than a destination vacation at a luxurious castle hotel in Ireland? Why, the opportunity to experience a legendary creature in its native habitat, of course–and at a package rate.

Dromoland Castle in County Clare is a wonder unto itself, with its lavish interiors, fine dining, deluxe accommodations, spectacular amenities, and wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities. Add the Dromoland School of Falconry to the mix, and flights of fancy surely follow. The falconry school is home not only to the eponymous falcons, but also to creatures even more mysterious, known for being lethal night hunters, incredibly beautiful, and the favored companion of Harry Potter. Yes, it’s the owl!

Seeing an owl in the wild is a rare treat, but with this Owl Evening Family Package experience, guests will get to spend time with them up close and personal. The experience begins when an expert falconer explains what to expect from the evening. Guests are then guided on a journey through the ancient walled garden, with the owls’ spooky evening calls haunting the night.

The Owl Evening Family Package, available through April 22, 2012, includes one night’s accommodation in a luxurious guestroom and a full Irish breakfast for two adults and up to two children (under12 years). Rates begin at € 295.00 EUR total per room.

Dromoland Castle: sending spirits soaring at every turn

About Dromoland Castle:
Dromoland Castle, located in Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare, was built in the 16th century. Majestically set on the shores of Lough Dromoland, it is surrounded by over 410 acres of breathtaking scenery, including a championship parkland golf course. Lavish interiors, fine food and superb wines complement the deluxe accommodations of the Castle’s 99 guest rooms, while Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club, an intimate spa and traditional outdoor recreational opportunities ensure a unique guest experience.

Dromoland Castle is located at Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare, Ireland. The hotel can be contacted at 011 353 61 368144 or 1-800-346-7007; website www.dromoland.ie.  Reservations can be made through the hotel (sales@dromoland.ie); through The Dromoland Collection at www.dromolandcollection.ie ; or through Preferred Hotels & Resort at 1.800.323.7500 or www.preferredhotels.com.

The Dromoland Collection comprises Dromoland Castle and Castlemartyr Resort, two of Ireland’s finest and most celebrated hotels. The hotels in this collection embody the legendary Dromoland tradition of incomparable hospitality complemented by exquisite surroundings, yet each possesses a distinctive style, character and charm all its own.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Just as Texas has its own style of music, it also has its own style of golf: Hill Country golf.

The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa’s Arthur Hills-designed championship course is among the very best around. Consistently ranked among Texas’ best courses, it’s a test of both strength and skill as it winds its way through rolling meadows, steep hillsides, peaceful creeks and tree-shaded plateaus. Dotted with colorful native wildflowers and mature oak trees, and populated by a variety of wildlife, it’s as breathtaking as it is challenging.

To help sharpen your game, all our carts offer a GPS system so you’ll always know exactly how far your ball is from the hole. Prior to arrival, please contact the Hyatt Hill Country Golf Club (210) 520-4040 to reserve your tee time. At check-in, you will receive a voucher for 1 day of unlimited golf for each night of your stay.

Dates: Good through April 25, 2012.

Price range: $299

For more information, please click here.

offers golf getaway member packages

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday — the Grand Strand’s golf marketing cooperative — is highlighting a diverse cross-section of customized, member packages perfect for spring golf getaways.

The offerings span the antebellum atmosphere of the “South Strand,” bustling “Central Strand,” and picturesque fishing communities of the “North Strand.” Packages feature roomy villa accommodations and layouts wrought by household names such as Jack Nicklaus, Pete Dye, Tom Fazio, as well as hands-on craftsman like Tom Doak, Mike Strantz and Tim Cate.

Prices are per person and include green / cart fees, lodging, taxes and surcharges.

The sample lineup includes:

- Big Cat Package — Play three rounds on the “Big Cats” — Lions Paw, Panthers Run and Tigers Eye — at Ocean Ridge Plantation. Starting at $209, stay three nights in a two-bedroom luxury villa at Brunswick Plantation and enjoy a “safari” of championship golf with clubs in tow.

http://www.golfholiday.com/packages/?hotelid=202

- North End Four Nights / Four Rounds – Tee it up on Carolina National, Crow Creek, Sandpiper Bay and Rivers Edge for $370 per player until May 20. Lunch / two beers daily and accommodations at Brunswick Plantation (quad occupancy) are included. http://www.golfholiday.com/packages/?hotelid=278

- Pay For Three, Get Five Rounds Free — Play three of the acclaimed Glens Group courses – Glen Dornoch, Heather Glen, Shaftesbury Glen and Possum Trot — and receive two additional rounds complimentary as well as free prebooked replays – which may be secured in advance.

Available until Sept. 5. http://www.golfholiday.com/courses/?courseid=96

- Grande Collection Four-Round Special – Thru June 3, play four Grande Collection courses and save 25 percent. Choose from nine of Myrtle Beach’s best designs, including lauded Grande Dunes, Pine Lakes and Tidewater. The more you play, the more you save. Four nights / four rounds packages with accommodations at Myrtlewood Villas begin at $249 per golfer. http://www.golfholiday.com/packages/?hotelid=39.

- Ambassador Golf & Beach Vacation’s “Play Four, Get One Free” — Enjoy four rounds and a get a fifth round gratis on 14 signature layouts including Aberdeen Country Club, Willbrook Plantation, Pawleys Plantation, Long Bay Club and Wachesaw East. http://www.golfholiday.com/packages/?hotelid=1

“No destination on Earth offers the scope of opportunities for exceptional golf vacations as we do in Myrtle Beach,” says Bill Golden, president of Golf Holiday. “Whether adding a ‘Top 100′ course to your resume, playing designs by the ‘Who’s Who’ of architects or booking yearly ‘golf buddy’ trips – our members have perfect packages for all.”
For more information about golf packages in Myrtle Beach, visit www.GolfHoliday.com.
About Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday
Myrtle Beach Golf Holiday is a non-profit trade association comprised of 79 championship golf courses, 99 golf package providers and five golf schools in the Myrtle Beach, South Carolina area.

Founded in 1967, the organization continues to be the driving force behind the growth of the region’s thriving golf market.

The originator of the “Stay and Play Package,” Golf Holiday provides non-biased information about accommodations and golf courses to assist golfers in making the most informed decisions when planning for their next vacation.

Golf Holiday also hosts seven events and tournaments annually to help to foster continued growth of the game. In addition to hosting the Hootie & the Blowfish Monday After The Masters Celebrity Pro-Am Golf Tournament each spring, Golf Holiday also manages the GOLF.com World Amateur Handicap Championship – the world’s largest single-site amateur golf tournament, the Summer Family Golf Tournaments, the Palmetto High School Golf Championships, the Veterans Golf Classic and the Myrtle Beach Never Forgets Memorial Golf Outing.

Save 20% on All Spa Treatments at THE ROYAL’S SPAzul & the Gran’s SPAreal

Cancun/Riviera Maya, MX — Forget March madness — at Real Resorts March is Spa Month so come and relax! Book any all-inclusive vacation between now and February 26th for travel during March 2012 and receive a 20% discount on all spa services at THE ROYAL’S SPAzul and the Gran’s SPAreal.

Enjoy a 20% discount on all holistic and Mayan inspired massages, facials, body treatments and wraps, hydrotherapy treatments, couples massages, as well as manicures, pedicures and salon services. In addition, guests of the ROYALS can use the SPAreal’s hydrotherapy pools and sauna at anytime, as well as enjoy yoga, spinning and Pilate’s classes without any additional fees.

March value packages feature all-inclusive suite accommodations, fine dining, adult beverages, taxes and gratuities.

SPA Month is available for bookings at THE ROYAL Cancun priced from $563 per night for double occupancy; THE ROYAL Playa del Carmen priced from $520 per night, for double occupancy; the Gran Caribe Real Cancun from $301 per night for double occupancy; and at the Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen from $368 per night for double occupancy.

Reservations must be made using the code SPA2 and this offer is not valid for previously booked reservations. Guests will receive a 20% discount voucher upon arrival that is good for any and as many spa services as they would like at their respective resort’s spa. For more information and reservations contact your travel agent or visit online at www.RealResorts.com.

THE ROYALS – Cancun & Playa del Carmen

Designed for the most discerning guests seeking a truly romantic experience, THE ROYAL Cancun and THE ROYAL Playa del Carmen offer service from the heart.

This luxury gourmet, all-inclusive, all-suite, adult only resorts exude romance. Each offers an array of warmly appointed suites with features that include ROYAL® bedding, double Jacuzzi tubs, in-room adult beverage bars with premium liquors, a choice of aromatherapy candles, a flat screen TV and a Boise sound system equipped for an IPOD.

Enjoy signature touches including private butlers to help you unpack and press a few items of clothing; complimentary room service either delivered discreetly through a Magic Box in each suite or on a fine dining table; a Romance Concierge who will assist with the special planning of private events such as a moonlight beach dinner for two;

Beach Butlers to keep you cool and comfortable with sunscreen and frozen treats; and gourmet dining at a selection of international a la carte and buffet restaurants that feature show cooking stations and nouvelle cuisine.

The Gran Caribe Real Cancun & The Gran Porto Real Playa del Carmen

Gran Resorts consider fun a serious pursuit and has perfected the art of a vibrant, yet relaxing vacation. With premium beachfront locations in Cancun and Playa del Carmen, the Gran Caribe Real and Gran Porto Real are dedicated to providing heartfelt service and the extras that create a memorable holiday.

Both all-inclusive resorts offer luxury suites and amenities appealing to singles, couples and families. The Family Junior Suites with bunk beds are favorites for kids, while the spacious suites with indulgent amenities including a complimentary mini bar appeal to all ages. Guests enjoy international dining, resort activities, and most importantly — exclusive personal service that comes from the heart.

About Real Resorts

Real Resorts is a privately owned hotel company in Mexico. THE ROYAL in Cancun and THE ROYAL Playa del Carmen are repeat recipients of the prestigious International Star Diamond Award, a recognition awarded by The American Academy of Hospitality Sciences to select five star hotels that exceed a selection of criteria for facilities, operations and service.

The Gran Caribe Real in Cancun and the Gran Porto Real in Playa del Carmen offer personal service and upscale accommodations appropriate for families and travelers seeking a casual vacation experience. Reservations can be made by calling 800.760.0944. For more information visit online at: www.RealResorts.com

Tenerife is to host the Tenerife Golf Trophy 2012, a friendly tournament aimed at amateur golf players, from 21st to 28th April 2012. Organised by the Association of Golf Courses in Tenerife, the event is expected to gather golfers from all corners of Europe on the island of Tenerife.

Designed to offer an informal and fun environment, the competition will be held at 3 of Tenerife’s championship golf courses; Abama Golf, Golf Costa Adeje and Golf Las Americas.

To take part, visitors must book a golfer package, which includes a 7-night stay at any of the participating hotels, 3 green fees (with a picnic included), transfers to the courses throughout the tournament and a closing awards gala dinner.

Non-golfer packages are also available for partners and travel companions that do not wish to participate.
Of varying budgets, packages include stays at Sheraton La Caleta, Iberostar Anthelia, Hotel Jardin Tropical, Arona Gran Hotel, Sandos San Blas Hotel and Compostela Beach Apartments.

While enjoying the pleasant sunny climes of Tenerife, visitors can also expect to relax and unwind on the nearby beaches, enjoy the hotel’s facilities and explore the island’s magnificent landscapes, such as the Teide National Park, featuring Spain’s highest mountain.

With 8 world-class golf courses, a variety of hotels catering for golfers, year round sunshine and just four hours away from the UK, Tenerife is an ideal choice for both golfers and visitors alike.

Further information on the Tenerife Golf Trophy 2012, as well as information on how to book, is available on http://en.tenerifeisladegolf.com/tenerife-golf-trophy

Paris’ Hotel Fouquet’s Barrière is offering two new high-end packages for guests seeking a beach-city experience and a golfing-city experience. With the “Fly Me to Deauville” offer, the property gives guests a chance to get away from Paris for day by flying them in a private helicopter to picnic on the beach in Deauville.

The one-day “Fly me to Deauville” offer includes: roundtrip car between the Hôtel Fouquet’s Barrière and the Paris heliport; a roundtrip 45-minute helicopter flight between Paris and Deauville; a “luxury” picnic on the beach prepared by Jean-Yves Leuranguer, the hotel’s chef, or a lunch at the Hôtel Normandy Barrière Bar, as well as one night in a room or suite at the Hôtel Fouquet’s Barrière, including breakfast and a VIP welcome. The offer, valid from through Dec. 26, 2012, is priced from 5,070 euros ($6,670) in an executive room. Other categories of suites are available on request.

Hotel Fouquet’s Barriere also is offering guests the opportunity to learn golf from one of France’s most renowned golfers, Jean-François Remésy, with the new Ultimate Golf Experience package. Remésy, a two-time winner of the French Open, will train guests for two days on the Le Golf National course (where the 2018 Ryder Cup will take place) and another course of choice. With this package, guests will also dine with Remésy one evening at Le Fouquet’s.

The Ultimate Golf Experience includes two nights’ accommodation in a deluxe junior suite; breakfast each morning; welcome VIP gift; golf session with Remésy, including training, long game, short game, and video analysis (equipment provided); two rounds of golf with Remésy, one at Le Golf National course and another at a course of choice (within Paris); lunch at the Club House (at Le Golf National); dinner at Le Fouquet’s with Remésy; roundtrip transfers to and from golf courses and airport. The package is priced from 3,850 euros ($5,385) per night, is based on double occupancy, and is valid through Nov. 30, 2012. Additional nights can be added for an extra charge. For more information, call 011-33-(0)1-40-69-60-40 or email reservationsfouquets@lucienbarriere.com

St. Patrick’s Day in an Irish castle might be just the short break some clients are looking for at the end of winter this year. Adare Manor, located near Ireland’s Limerick City, has announced its “St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Escape” package for 2012.

Adare Manor is one of western Ireland’s five-star Gothic castle hotels. At the front gates to Adare Manor is Adare Village, with thatched-roof houses and specialty shops, quaint streetscapes, 19th century churches and much more. The Castle at Adare Manor’s “St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Escape” package includes three nights accommodations; full Irish breakfast each morning; dinner for two one evening in the Oakroom Restaurant; live traditional Irish music in the Tackroom Bar, located in the castle’s lower level, Saturday and Sunday night; and private transportation to and from Limerick City for either the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17 or the International Band Parade on March 18.

The package is priced at 720 euros ($1,080) per couple. For guests travelling with children, accommodations are complimentary for two children under 12 years old when sharing a deluxe room with parents. Children’s meals are additional to total package price. For more information, call 011 353-61-605200.

Put a spring in your step with The Mere Golf Resort and Spa’s first Residential Spa Package

The Mere Golf Resort & Spa in Knutsford, Cheshire has launched its first Residential Spa Package for Easter, the perfect way to enjoy a well-earned Easter escape in luxury. Guests can enjoy overnight accommodation in a Club Room, a half hour spa treatment of their choice and make the most of the extensive Health Club facilities which include a 20 metre indoor pool and thermal zone, all rounded off with a two course dinner for two in the new Browns at The Mere brasserie.

This first residential spa package is available throughout March and April, following the resort’s redevelopment and re-opening in March as a luxury Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa, offering world class conference and event facilities, golf course and spa, along with a new build hotel comprising of 81 beautiful guest rooms and suites, and three dining options across the resort.

“Taking a luxurious Easter escape break is the perfect way to spend time over the holiday period. This is the first time guests will be able to enjoy our spa experience as residents following the re-opening of The Mere resort, and this package gives them a chance to sample at their leisure the hotel, the spa and the new brasserie dining experience.. We’re sure guests will leave revived and rejuvenated,” comments Graeme Nesbitt, Resort General Manager at The Mere.

The full package consists of:
Overnight accommodation in one of the hotel’s exquisite Club Rooms
Full English Breakfast
One half-hour treatment in the Spa
Two course dinner for two at Browns at The Mere
Full use of the health club facilities

The Spa Residential Package costs from £125 per person, per night, based on two people sharing a Club Room. The Spa at The Mere has a 20m indoor swimming pool, a large hydrotherapy vitality pool with massage jets and thermal zone, complete with hammam, caldarium, aroma steam room, salt infusion, and rejuvenating experience showers. The Spa offers a range of premier spa treatments including purifying facials & skincare rituals, relaxing massages and body treatments.

It is conveniently located in Mere, Knutsford close to Manchester and Liverpool and just off the M6 and M56 motorways.

Editors Notes:
The Mere Golf Resort & Spa was purchased by the Boler family in 1984 and is an independently owned luxury resort. From March 2012 the resort will offer an 81 bedroom hotel and two new restaurants including ‘Browns at The Mere’ and the ‘Club Lounge and Bar’ alongside its existing championship golf course, conference and event facilities for up to 550 people and a state-of the-art health club and spa. Situated in the heart of Cheshire, the resort is close to Manchester, Liverpool and Chester.

Further Information:
To find out more please visit: www.themereresort.co.uk
You can also follow The Mere Golf Resort & Spa on Facebook and Twitter at:
www.facebook.com/TheMereResort  www.twitter.com/LifeatMere

Hamilton Grand, overlooking the Old Course in St Andrews, is the second most photographed building in the world of golf after the R&A headquarters.

It is undergoing a multi-million pound redevelopment by The Kohler Company, owners of five red star Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort and Spa – and on Wednesday 1st February, it will be crowned with a dome, restoring a missing part of its original Victorian grandeur.

The original dome was replaced after a fire in 1976 with a fibreglass replica. The new dome – made in Scotland – is a lead-clad timber frame weighing 3.5 tonnes, true to the original structure.

Helen Parker, Director of Sales for the Old Course Hotel and Hamilton Grand says: “This is a key milestone in the restoration of Hamilton Grand. We are incredibly proud to be the guardians of such an iconic building – and to see the dome back in place will be an exciting day in the property’s amazing history.”

Launched in 1895 as The Grand Hotel, it was the height of luxury – the first building in Scotland to have a pneumatic elevator running between floors as well as hot and cold running water in every bathroom. It set the benchmark for the ultimate in hospitality.

The Second World War saw the Air Ministry requisition the Hotel, transforming the landmark into training headquarters for the Royal Air Force. It then served St Andrews University for more than half a century before the Kohler Co. bought the property and announced their restoration plans.

It is being transformed into a collection of 26 homes of distinction – two, three and four bedroom apartments together with a private residents’ lounge and function suite as well as a new, stylish restaurant and bar that is set to become a firm favourite of those visiting golf’s mecca.

“Our goal is to restore Hamilton Grand and create a dwelling that will make the people of St. Andrews proud,” said Debbie Taylor, President – Hospitality and Real Estate Group, Kohler Co. “We have been honoured to work with community members throughout this process.”

“Hamilton Grand is a unique real estate opportunity for those who want to own a home in the birthplace of golf and a premier destination that is rich in history – the holy grail of golf,” said Taylor. “We are looking forward to restoring the building using our restoration expertise, and returning a piece of Scottish history to its landmark status.”

Scotland’s top golf courses have joined forces with Scotland’s national tourist board to offer several golf deals in 2012. VisitScotland’s Drive It Home promotion even offers a chance to play the PGA Centenary Course, the venue for the 2014 Ryder Cup at Gleneagles, before the professionals do.

Mar Hall is located 10 minutes from Glasgow airport. It has a five-star hotel offering fine dining, spa treatments and the par 70 Earl of Mar golf course. The course has views over the River Clyde and a host of strategically placed bunkers make this a great course for all levels of golfer. From March until end of May, clients can stay and play Mar Hall for £120 ($190). The package includes one night bed and breakfast at the Mar Hall Hotel and two rounds of golf on the Earl of Mar. Other courses in the area to try include The Dundonald Links. Dundonald Golf Club, formerly Southern Gailes, is a member of the Loch Lomond Golf Club family. Recently redesigned by Kyle Philips, Dundonald is a challenging but extremely rewarding course often compared in style to Carnoustie.

Situated on the Fife coastline, Fairmont St. Andrews offers panoramic views across the Tay and the surrounding golf courses. The spa facilities and regular shuttle bus to the center of town make this an ideal golf break. Two championship courses are available — the Sam Torrance-designed Torrance Course and the Kittocks. During March, April, October, November and December, clients receive a night’s lodging, bed and breakfast, and a round of golf for two for £199 ($315). From May to September the cost is £399 ($631). In addition to the wealth of golf at the Fairmont, there are other famous links, including The Castle Course. The seventh course at the Home of Golf is set on a rugged cliff line overlooking the ancient town of St. Andrews and combines breathtaking views with a memorable challenge.

The four-star Meldrum House Country Hotel & Golf Course, Aberdeenshire is set amidst beautiful countryside only a few miles from Aberdeen. Meldrum has a world-class golf academy and teaching center and the course is one of only a few in Scotland measuring over 7,000 yards. Throughout the year, based on two people sharing a twin or double room, two nights in an Executive Room, including dinner and breakfast, a round of golf at Cruden Bay, Murcar Links and Meldrum House will cost £295 ($466) per person. Just a short distance away is the Castle Stuart course, the current home of the Scottish Open. Castle Stuart Golf Links, a championship links course overlooking the Moray Firth and well-known landmarks that are synonymous with Inverness and the Black Isle-Kessock bridge and Chanonry Lighthouse.

The Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa in North Berwick is known for its coastal location and glorious 19th century Victorian architecture. Located at the heart of East Lothian’s golfing coast, the hotel features 83 rooms, superb dining and a spa. On offer for £199 ($315) per person, one night’s bed and breakfast and two rounds of golf on the West Links (North Berwick) and Gullane No. 1.

Gleneagles, set in 850 acres at the foot of the Scottish highlands, is a world-class resort offering guests a choice of sports and leisure facilities. Gleneagles is the host to three championship courses, including the home of the Ryder Cup 2014. During March, one night’s bed and breakfast at Gleneagles and a round of golf (PGA Centenary, King’s Course or The Queen’s) will cost £173 ($273).