Couples, families, getaways with the gals, mother-daughter bonding...

It's not often that a hotel manages to cater for every taste but Inchydoney Island Hotel Lodge and Spa isn't far off. Visiting this beachside gem was on my staycation list and I finally made the trek to West Cork a couple of weekends ago. Pulling up to the hotel, the sight that greets you is nothing short of stunning. The vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean set off by lush greenery and the picturesque Inchydoney beach, Blue Flag status no less, to your right. Bracing the November cold for a brisk walk provides an opportunity to appreciate the peaceful surroundings and clear a mind that's full of a million different things. Another reason to brave the weather is the fact that when you head back to reception, there's an open fire to greet weary travellers topped off with a glass of warm apple cider. The soft furnishings, comfy couches, carefully chosen artwork and friendly reception staff help to create a chilled-out atmosphere that puts guests at ease. The relaxed atmosphere of this hotel gets my vote but a special nod must go to the Gulfstream Restaurant. The homemade soda bread, well-chosen wine list, mouth-watering scallops and the best mashed potato I've ever tasted... I pride myself on this particular adjudgment. Also if you're acquainted with the humble potato farl, you'll be glad to know that Inchydoney includes it as a breakfast option (if you haven't tried yet, DO IT, game changer). Inchydoney is home to a seawater spa with a hydrotherapy pool. Working in a desk job, I have what you might call a dodgy back and was happy to make use of the jacuzzi, complete with bubble seas and a selection of jets, fancy. Seawater is pumped directly from the ocean to the pool and heated to 31 degrees. If you suffer from muscular pain, hanging out here is a must. Another favourite feature of mine was the relaxation room. Some spas don't include magazines, encouraging you to embrace the 'zen' but I like to have the option. Fresh orange juice and tasty watermelon, not to mention a full body massage, meant I had no excuse but to completely chill out. For all of half an hour anyway. Elemis products are used in the spa and as a longtime fan of their treatments, this was another win for Inchydoney. A really lovely addition to the hotel is the Children's Room, full of toys and playthings. It's a thoughtful idea to have a dedicated space to entertain little ones and there's also a snooker room for any big babies in your life... This place is the definition of cosy (the main lounge, pictured below, SWOON) and you'll settle in quickly. A home from home, so much so that you'll find it difficult to leave and head back to reality.

Inchydoney is running a Twixmas Getaway from 27th-30th December and it includes two nights bed and breakfast, mulled wine & mince pies, board games, Christmas movies, and a back massage from €310 per person sharing.

If you'd rather a pre/post-Christmas break, there's also the Breakaway Day package which offers overnight accommodation for two people sharing, dinner and a treatment each in the spa, from €250 per person sharing.