The Merrion Hotel

Set in a restored, Georgian building, this formal hotel is a 6-minute walk from the National Gallery of Ireland and 2 miles from Dublin Castle. Decorated in neutral tones and country-style furnishings, the genteel rooms and suites feature flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi and minibars. Suites additions range from Nespresso machines and sitting areas to fireplaces and claw-foot tubs. An acclaimed, upscale restaurant overlooks the gardens. There’s also a cocktail bar, an 18th-century wine vault turned pub, and an eatery offering traditional Irish dishes. In addition to spa treatments, leisure facilities include an infinity pool and a fitness centre.

Situated to the south of Royal Dornoch, Tain is a heathland/links course with spectacular views. Designed originally by Old Tom Morris as a fifteen-hole course in 1890, it was extended to eighteen holes in 1894; eleven Morris holes are still in play today. This is an easy walking course with the river meandering through three of the holes. Always presented in beautiful condition, Tain is a good test of golf, with clever bunkering and natural water hazards. Tain is located 35 miles north of Inverness.