With the magnificent 13th-century castle rising above the 350-acre estate in County Mayo, Ashford Castle is truly exceptional. And as the only hotel in Ireland to achieve two prestigious Five-Star Forbes Rankings, having this week earned the coveted award for its spa, it’s also truly luxurious. But that’s not the only reason why Ashford Castle is the ultimate Mother’s Day getaway. From the stunning location and historic rooms to the lavish amenities and world-class service, Ashford Castle promises to treat your mom like royalty this Mother’s Day. 

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The Spa

Having recently been named as the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Ireland (only ten properties in Europe have achieved this status), you won’t find a better place to relax and rejuvenate than The Spa at Ashford. There’s a relaxation pool with jets, a steam room, and a terrace overlooking the peaceful Lough Corrib, along with an extensive treatment menu including massages, body wraps and facials. Beyond the classics, you’ll find heated stone beds and crystal therapy treatments. You’ll be in expert hands with skilled therapists and they only use organic products from the iconic Irish brand, VOYA. 

The soothing atmosphere has been perfectly crafted with low lighting, gorgeous decor, wall-to-wall windows, and a stunning mural depicting the Celtic tree of life by South African artist Jane du Rand. Our pick for your mom this Mother’s Day getaway? Go with the 60-minute Ashford Castle Ritual. From the warm Elemis massage and frangipani hair mask, to the therapeutic scalp massage, Superfood Pro-Radiance facial with Hydra Gel eye compresses, and pressure-point foot massage, this is the ultimate full-body experience.

Read more: Ashford Castle: An Idyllic Country Escape

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The Bedrooms

The best Mother’s Days ensure mom gets a good night’s rest and Ashford Castle certainly delivers here. Each room and suite is designed with impeccable taste and attention to detail. From the plush beds and luxurious linens to the antique furnishings, the bedrooms exude timeless elegance. Every room offers breathtaking views of the castle’s expansive grounds, Lough Corrib, or the River Cong, making for an unforgettable stay for your mom.

Read more: From a festive cruise to parading puddings, this is how Ashford Castle celebrates Christmas

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The Dining

Your mom will dine like royalty at Ashford Castle, with a variety of dining options and locations. Start the day with a sumptuous breakfast in the regal George V Dining Room, where you can savor both traditional Irish and international dishes. For a more casual atmosphere, visit the cozy Dungeon, where you can enjoy bistro-style fare, including Irish-inspired dishes.

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In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at the renowned Cullen’s at the Cottage. You also have the option to enjoy farm-to-table delicacies at the Chef’s Table. Here, the estate’s Executive Chef uses only the freshest ingredients from Ashford’s gardens and local producers. No Mother’s Day getaway would be complete without a traditional afternoon tea in the elegant Connaught Room, where you can enjoy a delightful selection of sandwiches, pastries, and teas. If your mom has a sweet tooth, be sure to sample some of the signature pastries at Paula Pastry, the new pâtissier & chocolate concept located on Ashford Estate.

Read more: Hives and honey: Meet Ashford Castle beekeeper, Steve Watson Oughterard

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The Grounds

Ashford Castle’s remarkable 350-acre estate offers a range of opportunities to get some fresh air in the great outdoors. You can wander through the immaculate Victorian Walled Garden, go on a lake cruise, or take a peaceful stroll along the shores of Lough Corrib. If your mom has an adventurous side, you can go horseback riding, cycling, fishing, clay shooting, try archery, or have a round of golf on the nine-hole course.

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You can even get acquainted with the falcons at Ashford’s Falconry, the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland. Whether you roam through the ancient woodlands or explore the 800-year-old castle that has been home to royals and the Guinness family, you’ll cherish this enchanting experience with your mom.

Read more: ​​Our top 10 hand-picked luxury hotel stays for 2023

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The Services

Ashford Castle prides itself on exceptional service. From the moment you arrive, the dedicated staff will make your mom feel like a queen. Ask your concierge to arrange an experience, or relax in the on-site cinema, or billiards room. You can even go wine tasting in the underground wine cellar. Whatever you do, your mom is sure to feel appreciated with a Mother’s Day getaway at Ashford Castle.

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You can enjoy a luxurious three-night stay at Ashford Castle as part of our Ultimate Ireland luxury tour. The experience begins with a royal welcome as a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge to the estate. Your stay includes dinner at the exceptional Cullen’s at the Cottage and a unique falconry experience. You’ll also enjoy a tour of the castle to see the beautifully restored castle interiors and original artwork and antiques. 

Under the Tuscan sun, immerse yourself in fine vintages and fascinating conversation at the sublime Castello di Fonterutoli. Take a timeless journey with us to Italy on a Founder’s Collection departure and be personally welcomed into the home of La Famiglia Mazzei, the renowned Tuscan winemaking family.

An exclusive invitation from la Famiglia Mazzei

For over six centuries, ‘la Famiglia Mazzei’ has dedicated itself to winemaking, with a passion and commitment handed down from one generation to the next. In 1938, Ser Lapo Mazzei became known as the pioneer of Chianti Classico, as the author of the first document known to mention ‘Chianti.’ Then in 1435, when Ser Lapo’s granddaughter Madonna Smeralda Mazzei married Piero di Agnolo from Fonterutoli, the Castello di Fonterutoli estate became a family heritage.

Enjoy an exclusive lunch and wine-tasting with either Marchese Francesco Mazzei or his grandson Lapo Mazzei, at their centuries-old Tuscan estate. Through this intimate meet and greet, learn about the family themselves, their beautiful home, the Mazzei wine dynasty and how they are preserving the local eco system for future generations.

Experience this on a Founder’s Collection departure of Ultimate Italy

Castello di Fonterutoli

“My family has owned Castello di Fonterutoli since 1435, so for 25 generations. We’ve been living here forever, it’s our paradise,” Marchese Francesco Mazzei explains.

Set in the picturesque village of Fonterutoli, Castello di Fonterutoli is more than a winery. This small rural settlement is located in the heart of Chianti Classico between Florence and Siena and is considered one of the most important institutions of Chianti Classico and Tuscany.

Built at the end of the 1500’s, the Marchesi Mazzei have taken care to preserve the authentic charm and atmosphere of the village, and today it retains much of its original spirit. Cobbled paths, beautiful rustic buildings decorated by rose pink flowers and a strong community prevail. Visitors can enjoy a coffee in the village bar, a chat with the locals or, of course, sip some famous Castello di Fonterutoli wines.

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Ancestors celebrated through their wines

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The Mazzei family describe their wines as ‘the maximum expression of their terroirs.’ Maybe one of their most renowned products is the ‘Siepi’. Credited as ‘one of the 50 wines that changed Italy’s wine style’ this has been produced by the Mazzei family since 1435.

Much of the family history is told through its wines. With their outstanding ‘Chianti Classico Riserva’, the Marquis Mazzei celebrate their notable ancestor Ser Lapo, and a sublime vintage named ‘Philip’ is dedicated to Philip Mazzei (1730-1816). An illustrious ancestor and political thinker, together with Thomas Jefferson, Philip was a pioneer of the viticulture in Virginia.

Captivating stories and connections

As part of your visit, you will have the opportunity to see inside the impressive wine cellars. This vast space is taken up by thousands of barrels, all decorated with the Mazzei family’s official stamp. On your tour you will learn about the various vintages, and the barrelling process.

“If I could bring anyone here, past or present, it would have to be Thomas Jefferson. He was a real wine connoisseur,” Marchese Francesco Mazzei tells us. Jefferson also happened to be a close friend of Francesco’s ancestor, Filippo Mazzei, and was a Founding Father of the United States, contributing to the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

Filippo Mazzei is credited for being the inspiration behind one of its famous quotes: “All men are by nature equally free and independent. Such equality is necessary in order to create a free government,” something later acknowledged by President John F. Kennedy in his book, “A Nation of Immigrants”.

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Natural treatments in the vineyard

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Guaranteeing the stability of the ecosystem and its biodiversity is very important to the Mazzei family. At Castello di Fonterutoli and their other estates, they’ve eliminated chemicals for weeding and recycle their production waste (shoots, grape stalks, olive pomace, and horse manure) as organic fertilizer.

To reduce their carbon footprint and preserve of the surrounding landscape, they’ve adopted various methods, including their ledge-shaped terraced vineyards. This reduces erosion and preserves the heritage of the landscape.

Water is used carefully, including as a natural coolant for the wine cellar. Through the recycling of the fast flowing spring water through the rock walls of the cellar, no climate control system is required.

An elegant and intimate lunch

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Traditional Tuscan dishes, reinterpreted in a gourmet-style await you in the family’s osteria. This quaint restaurant, surrounded by stunning views of the rolling Tuscan countryside, is where Founder’s Collection guests enjoy an exclusive and delicious rustic meal during their trip to Castello di Fonterutoli.

Sip some more of the estate’s wines and dine on dishes made exclusively with fresh, seasonal local produce. Each plate respects the Tuscan heritage, with a particular eye to the wild game that roams wild in the estate’s meadows and woodlands.

Time with family is precious, so make your next vacation together exceptional. Whether you are seeking a spectacular safari, a luxurious train journey through the mountains or a decadent city escape, find out why a Luxury Gold tour is just perfect for families with grown-up children.

Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences

There are few experiences more exhilarating than getting up close and personal with the earth’s most majestic wildlife. And for families with grown-up children, sharing these moments together is even more special. Seeing wild animals in their natural habitat is both a privilege and unforgettable experience that will create a lifetime of memories.

Join us on our 9-day Spectacular South Africa tour, and spend three sublime days immersed in wildlife at the famous Kruger National Park. Experience the thrill and excitement of tracking Africa’s Big Five: the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo.

Safari by day and dine on a candle-lit terrace at night, listening to the sounds of wild animals in the evening air. And rest your heads at night at your exquisite 5-star retreat.

Read more: Where the wilderness and luxury combine: Step inside the Lion Sands Game Reserve

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In Ranthambore National Park, India, search out the elusive tigers in their natural habitat as you stalk the former private hunting grounds of the maharajahs.

On our Essence of India tour, join a Local Expert on a quest for these spectacular tigers and explore the lakes and palace ruins of the park with an Expert Naturalist. These include traditional Chhatri dome-shaped pavilions, old fortifications and a magnificent 1,000-year-old fort.

Read more: Walking with the king of the big cats in India’s royal hunting grounds

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Take a luxurious train journey

Imagine taking a luxurious train journey with your children on some of the world’s most iconic routes, enjoying first class service and magnificent views across stunning landscapes. Relax, share memories and precious moments, dine in style and watch the world unfold.

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Travel with Luxury Gold on Majesty of the Rockies and journey though snow-capped peaks and lush valleys aboard the Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Service. Plush carriages offer 360-degree views of the unparalleled beauty of the Canadian Rockies. A large outdoor viewing platform, exclusive to GoldLeaf passengers, offers a wild and intimate view. On-board gourmet dining will see you treated to exceptional dishes created by award-winning chefs.

Read more: The Rocky Mountaineer, North America’s most luxurious train journey

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Or in Europe, travel to the United Kingdom on British Royale and extend your vacation with a journey aboard the Royal Scotsman. Immerse yourself in Edwardian elegance and the rugged beauty of the Scottish highlands, stopping en route at distilleries, castles and quaint villages. This iconic train combines 5-star service, Mother Nature’s beauty and comforts of a country house, with the best of Scottish gastronomy and traditional live entertainment.

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You may enjoy reading: 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys

Discover a new culture through gastronomy

Whatever your nationality, age or religion, food brings family together. Sharing a meal is sharing precious time, for conversation, reflection, stories and laughter. Nourishing for the body and the soul, exploring a country through its cuisine is also the perfect way for families with grown-up children to connect with new cultures as you discover new aromas, tastes, languages and customs.

On Cambodia & Vietnam in Style you’re invited to step into a mystical world of rainforests, beaches, mountains and bustling cities, packed with ancient temples and friendly locals. A culinary journey second to none, dine at Saigon’s splendid rooftop restaurants in and enjoy a meal and private concert at the home of celebrated painter and singer, Camille Huyen. Feast on pho and crab spring rolls as you join a local foodie to explore the street food culture of Hanoi and roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class with a local chef.

Discover this on: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

Read more: Fine dining, dressed down: the cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia

Discover the delights of Majestic Japan from the stunning Oirase Gorge to the metropolis of Tokyo. A country known for its hospitality, innovation and tradition, unwrap its history as you savor tempura, sushi, kyo-Kaisekiand teppanyaki cuisine. Dine on Mount Fuji, visit a traditional teahouse, meet a sake brew master and learn how to make sushi with a master chef.

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Read more: A journey of a lifetime: unearthing Majestic Japan, with Luxury Gold

Stand in awe of iconic monuments

The world’s iconic monuments. Everyone has these on their bucket list and what better way to see them than with family. From the Pyramids of Egypt to the Colosseum of Rome, they do not disappoint.

Instantly recognizable as an iconic symbol of Australia’s landscapes and heritage, Uluru tops many a traveler’s bucket list. On Inspiring Australia we invite you to witness this powerful place at her best. Enjoy multi-colored sunsets, a dawn performance of renowned artist Bruce Munro’s Field of Light art installation of colored glass spheres and dine to the sounds of the digeridoo.  A luxurious stay at the five-star Sails in the Desert, Ayers Rock Resort, a beautiful oasis amid the raw beauty of the Outback, will make your family holiday complete.

Discover this on: Inspiring Australia

Read more: The irresistible lure of Uluru, Australia’s spiritual hub

One of the most sought-after destinations on earth, Machu Picchu in Peru stands 2,430 m above sea-level in the middle of a lush tropical mountain forest. Join us on Treasures of the Incas and access the enigmatic Lost City of the Incas by train. First-class seats and panoramic windows make for sublime views en route. Arrive before the day trippers and join your expert guide for a fascinating and unforgettable journey back in time.

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Read more: Step inside Peru’s blissful Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel

Explore spectacular cities

If your family loves to be in the heart of the action, then the world’s greatest cities might be top of your list for a vacation together. From busy markets, museums and galleries to eclectic festivals and delicious restaurants, cities are the hub of a country’s culture and full of endless surprises.

In the vibrant American South, the cities of Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans take center stage on our Southern Grace tour. An idyllic combination of music, culture and cuisine, each day in these world-famous cities is bookended with delicious dining and magnificent hotels.

Perfect for families with grown-up children, get together to participate in a rare recording session at Nashville’s famous Studio B. Join a singer/songwriter to learn the stories behind the hits before getting out your dancing shoes for a lively performance at the Grand Ole Opry. Visit Graceland, the home of The King of Rock n Roll in Memphis and take a private cooking class in New Orleans.

Read more: Why New Orleans’ Ritz Carlton Hotel is a cut above the rest

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Take a timeless journey on Ultimate Italy and explore iconic cities that have amazed visitors for generations. Cruise canals and explore Doges Palace after hours in Venice. Follow in the footsteps of gladiators at Rome’s mighty colosseum. Lose yourself amongst the masterpieces and frescos of the Vatican Museums. See Michelangelo’s David in Florence, feast on local delicacies and join a hunt for delicious truffles.

And, as a brief respite from the hustle and bustle, a sojourn to the stunning Isle of Capri will see you savoring Michelin-starred dining and embracing the celebrity lifestyle.

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Read more: Making it personal: How Travel Concierge Anna elevates your Italy experience