IN PARTNERSHIP WITH IRELAND’S BLUE BOOK
Whether you’re seeking a countryside escape or a cosy city stay, these intimate properties will inspire with their charm, character and comfort …
Cashel House Hotel, Co Galway
Welcoming guests for the last 40 years, Cashel House in Connemara is that perfect blend of old world charm and modern comfort. It’s set within 50 acres on the beautiful coastline of Cashel Bay. The location is an ideal base from which guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area and its beaches. Activities on offer include sea and lake fishing, golf, horse riding, as well as day trips to Kylemore Gardens and the Aran and Inishbofin islands. Pets are also welcome to stay in the guest bedrooms which overlook the majestic Twelve Bens mountains; there’s plenty of scope for peaceful walks in the vicinity.
Rathmullan House, Co Donegal
Secluded and elegant, Rathmullan House is defined by its spacious drawing rooms and low-key charm. There are 34 rooms – book one of the large bay-windowed ones to the front with sea views. The hotel is a stone’s throw from a (3km-long) Blue Flag beach which overlooks the hills of Inishowen on the far side of the water. It couldn’t be a more inspiring corner of Donegal and a good base from which to enjoy the Wild Atlantic Way. With the second generation of the Wheeler family now looking after this four-star gem, good food with a relaxed personal service are guaranteed. Its award-winning restaurant, The Cook & Gardener is renowned for its locally sourced and expertly cooked food, with many ingredients sourced from the hotel’s Victorian walled garden. Rathmullan village is only a short stroll away, via Batts Walk, and from the pier you can catch a ferry across the lough to Buncrana.
Delphi Lodge, Co Galway
Delphi Lodge is a historic Georgian country house located in the beautiful Delphi Valley of Connemara, surrounded by mountains and overlooking tranquil lakes and rivers. The lodge, on a 1,000-acre estate features 13 spacious bedrooms, which are warm and inviting. Many stay at this hideaway for flyfishing instruction as it offers a salmon club with permits, licenses, rods and other equipment. But there’s also plenty of scope for unwinding in comfortable reception rooms (with log fires) or enjoy a game in the snooker room. The culinary offerings are exceptional, with menus highlighting local seafood, salmon, lamb, game and fresh produce, all complemented by an extensive wine list featuring over 200 selections. Guests can also choose from six sympathetically restored country cottages on the estate.
The Wilder Townhouse, Dublin City
Located on one of the prettiest residential streets in the city yet just moments away from the restaurants and bars of Camden Street, this handsome Victorian townhouse is full of character with 43 pretty bedrooms, a lovely terrace and top-notch bar. Its allure is down to its thoughtful details: a generous sprinkling of thoughtfully chosen books, gorgeous artworks, Dublin bikes on hand and picnic hampers available to residents. Breakfast in the Garden Room is particularly memorable (the hotel holds a One Michelin Key). This is an impeccable, peaceful retreat and base from which to explore Dublin’s many cultural, historic, and retail attractions.
Ireland’s Blue Book Vouchers are welcomed at all properties. For more information, see www.irelandsbluebook.com.
