Looking for your next small corporate board retreat, incentive trip or simple getaway to the rural landscapes of western Europe? Look to West Ireland and Burgundy, France, two countryside destinations each with their own upscale hotels embracing the scenery and history of the region.

© Liss Ard Estate

Liss Ard Estate, Cork, Ireland

This historic estate is the country’s premier destination for corporate and board retreats, private celebrations, gatherings and more. Located in Skibbereen, a popular seaside town in Cork, Liss Ard boasts more than 50 meditation spots, yoga and Pilates studio, 40-acre private lake (perfect for cold plunging), miles of trails and manicured gardens, and James Turreel’s Irish sky Garden. The estate’s reception room caters up to 100 guests, while the Walled Garden and Terrace can both accommodate up to 130 guests. Liss Ard’s meeting room is ideal for up to 40 people and, for those seeking total exclusivity, Estate buyouts are available for private events with three-night minimum stays.

On-site dining includes breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner, while the estate’s Lakeside Wellness Centre invites guests to relax in its two wood-burning saunas, gym, treatment rooms and more.

© Abbaye de la Bussière

Abbaye de la Bussière, Burgundy, France

In the heart of Burgundy lies this beautiful property offering high-quality services within its 900-year-old walls. This hotel provides unparalleled and prestigious framework for organizing professional events, seminars and board meetings. The Garnier II room pays homage to the nobleman who donated the abbey lands to the monks, with a capacity for 20 in a meeting set-up and 60 for a banquet layout. The hotel can organize exclusive experiences for groups like corporate retreats, executive leadership meetings and intimate business gatherings.

© Abbaye de la Bussière

The Abbaye de la Bussière boasts several lounges, including the Music Lounge, ideal for an aperitif, and the Hunting Room. Guests can also find the Salon des Dames ladies lounge, a peaceful spot for reading or enjoying a cup of coffee. The hotel is home to Le 1131, a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving refined cuisine beneath ribbed vaults.