4 Irish hotels with something new to offer this winter

The Christmas countdown is on and while it seems almost every weekend from now until the big day is packed with parties and pantos, it's also the perfect time of year for a little escapism.  Whether you make reservations at a favourite haunt or choose somewhere new to visit, there's plenty of value to be had in the coming weeks. Here are four Irish hotels offering something unique this season: Escape to Connemara Does a weekend in scenic Connemara sound like bliss to you? Delphi Adventure Resort & Spa has launched a €247pps Bliss Package that includes a two-night stay in the luxurious four-star hotel, a healthy breakfast each morning and a five-course Gourmet Taster Meal in The Chef's Table by Stefan Matz. Choose a soothing treatment from the menu (massages, mini facials and foot treatments) too, followed by a Connemara seaweed bath each, using exclusively locally hand harvested organic seaweed and one hour complimentary access to the Thermal Suite. Book here. Winterval in Waterford Situated on its own private Island, Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort is the perfect luxe base for exploring Waterford's Christmas festival Winterval. Once you've had your fill of roasted chestnuts and a few spins of the Ferris wheel, return to your Castle lodgings for a delicious dinner, a tipple or two and a long soak in a claw-foot bath. Family accommodation also available. Use the code 'Winterval' to get 10 per cent off when booking here. Have a Lava Shell Massage in Galway This winter the Spirit One Spa at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Galway has introduced an indulgent new Lava Shell Relax Massage designed to revive the body during the cold winter months. Using the continual heat to relax muscles and ease tension, the smooth texture and shape of the shells contour the body and promote deep relaxation. Book the Lava Shell Relax Massage at Spirit One Spa and enjoy complimentary use of the Thermal Suite, Pool, Hot-Tub for €89 per person or make it a weekend with a room for two for €119. Book here. Read into it at The Westin Did you ever arrive at your hotel only to discover you'd forgotten that book you were looking forward to getting stuck into? The Westin’s new Book Butler service allows guests to choose from the most popular books this Christmas. Simply call the concierge, who will tell you the top choices from Easons, and the books will be hand delivered to your room. The Westin Dublin is offering a number of special festive packages this year, including a two-night luxury Christmas at €535 per person sharing (Christmas Eve dinner, five course Christmas Day lunch, sumptuous breakfasts and special Christmas stockings included. Book here.   MORE on getaways: The Buzz on Belfast