What sets this hotel apart is its setting, sense of serenity and style …
VIBE: Relaxing riverside retreat on the banks of the River Moy where guests can’t fail to change gear on check-in. What sets this hotel apart is its setting, sense of serenity and style – an eclectic mix of contemporary design and historical detail.
BACKSTORY: It may be hard to see when you arrive, but the hotel is in two halves. The original building dates from 1836 when it was known as the Ice House or Iceland Cottage, the home of fishery managers. It comprised living quarters, an ice store, workshop and boathouse. Tonnes of wild salmon were preserved under ice here before being shipped to the markets in Dublin and Liverpool.
Architect Joe Kennedy, of Smith and Kennedy Architects (SKA), added the dramatic, contemporary extension composed of steel, stone and wood with its glass atrium when the hotel was commissioned and built more than 20 years ago. Art was an important aspect of the design and guest experience. Initially work by three Irish artists – John Devlin, Martin Gale and Charles Tyrell – was commissioned which take pride of place in the hotel restaurant, or Tunnel, as it’s affectionately known.
ROOMS: Guests can choose to stay in one of four historic suites or in the contemporary riverside suites, named after gems and stones. All enjoy riverside views. My room was bright and spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows which gave the impression I was on a boat floating down stream. It was quite hypnotic watching the ducks glide by from the comfort of my bed. Adding to the sense of comfort and relaxation were the amenities – Nespresso machine, a tray of welcome goodies, Foxford throw, a deep, freestanding bath and monsoon shower with Voya bath products and bespoke artwork. If anything the colour scheme in my room of muted greys felt a bit corporate but did not detract from enjoyment of the visit. I recommend watching the hotel documentary which explains more about the hotel’s fascinating history, design and art collection. One of the best I’ve watched in this niche genre!
ART: There are almost 100 works of art throughout the hotel. As Pearse Farrell, owner of the Ice House, says in the art collection brochure available for all guests: “In essence, the collection focuses on three areas – historical, modern, and contemporary. The historical works are mainly 19th-century paintings that hang in the hallways and bedrooms of the original house, reflecting the era when it was constructed. I have a passion for Irish art of the 20th century and have been fortunate enough to add works by artists like Patrick Collins, Norah McGuinness, and Colm Middleton to the collection. In recent years, with the assistance of curator Eamonn Maxwell, I have added works by leading contemporary artists, including Dorothy Cross, Niamh O’Malley, and Tom Climent. Wherever possible, I like the work on display at the Ice House to have a connection to Mayo and the West, either by subject or reflecting where the artist is from.” I enjoyed perusing these works, a particular favourite was a Brian Ballard I spied. Arguably the Ice House was way ahead of the trend when it came to creating art-inspired stays and it’s great the collection is expanding.
SPA: Chill Spa is an additional dimension to any stay at the Ice House. Guests can relax in the aromatherapy room, refresh in the experience showers and drift away in the snooze room. Spa treatments are extensive and for facial devotees they include everything from HydraFacials, to Ella & Jo treatments, Life and Tone facials, Elemis touch treatments and and reflexology. One of its latest offerings is a new VOYA Resurge Scalp Treatment, €110, to promote healthier, fuller-looking hair. Following any treatment, make the most of the restorative relaxation suite, outdoor seaweed baths, mud baths and sunken riverside jacuzzi, or zone out in the salt room. Great value is the current VOYA Resurge Spa Escape, from €295 per person sharing, which includes a overnight stay with dinner plus a treatment for two guests.
DINING: The finale to any day is supper in the hotel’s 54° 9° Restaurant, set in Victorian vaults surrounded by stunning art and design. Seafood takes centre stage on the menu while the service is friendly and efficient. Panoramic river views provide the backdrop for delicious food, fine wines and clever cocktails. Breakfast is also served here for residents – part generous buffet, part made-to-order with a very good vegetarian offering. Afternoon tea is available from Wednesday to Saturday from 2pm -5pm – the glass atrium has an eclectic collection of teapots on display!
DO: Meander along the river, try a fishing excursion, cycle to Bartra Island, and make the most of the clear skies for some stargazing – Mayo is in Ireland’s International Dark Sky Park. Drive to Enniscrone beach for a walk and don’t leave without a visit to Foxford (and its fabulous café) to stock up on beautiful bedlinen and larder treats.
Verdict: A serene stay. Guests can now get even closer to the River Moy via a private three-house river cruise with Moy Estuary Charters. This cruise option is available until early October and is part of a two-night stay which includes dinner on one evening and a picnic, from €485 per person sharing. A further bonus: you can use Ireland’s Blue Book vouchers here too.
