Rathmullan House
There is nothing quite like the gorgeous crunch of the driveway at the entrance of Donegal’s Rathmullan House to signal the beginning of a marvellous stay at this Georgian family-run country house. The house and its heavenly surrounds with serene gardens, are just a stroll from a beautiful sandy beach on the shores of Lough Swilly. Enjoy a refreshing aperitif by the roaring open fire before perusing the menu from their stunning Cook & Gardener fine-dining restaurant. It changes daily to reflect the best from their kitchen garden as well as local suppliers like Mulroy Bay mussels, Noones free-range chicken and local venison. Expect scrumptious things like squash, chard, and herbs from their garden on the menu. The breakfast here is truly something to cherish. You’ll find unforgettable Carrageen moss, poached pears from the walled garden and porridge with Fanad Head honey before a delicious, cooked breakfast. To enjoy even more of the local delicacies, visit the Blue Goat Delicatessen or take a day trip to sample a nip of whiskey at Croithlí Distillery.
Rathmullan House, Rathmullan, Co. Donegal
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Gregans Castle
One of the most inspiring things about Gregans Castle is the passion with which head chef Robbie McCauley speaks about its staggering surrounds in the glorious Burren, Co. Clare, which, coupled with their own kitchen garden, provides a unique larder of gourmet charms like sloes, hazelnuts, and the incredibly rare juniper. This family-run hotel dates from 1750 and is a true gem of the west coast with its own gorgeous gardens as well as stunning views of the Burren and Galway Bay. Owner Simon Haden and chef Robbie are keenly aware of how special this awe-inspiring location is, and it is palpable how proud the team are of this gem. Robbie lights up when he speaks about the daily conversations with his kitchen gardener about what’s ready to harvest that day, and how he can create a dish for that evening’s menu to best show it off. Fantastic game, root vegetables, rich greens and decadent desserts will all feature on Robbie’s menus this autumn and winter. The beauty outside is honoured within its own stunning interiors. This, along with each delectable dish served, culminates in a truly unforgettable stay at this magical haven.
Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare
Cashel Palace Hotel
If something was good enough for Elizabeth Taylor, you would be right to envisage something fit for Hollywood royalty at County Tipperary’s Cashel Palace Hotel. From the moment you are greeted at the enchanting entrance of this magnificent 1732 Palladian manor, which has been beautifully restored with a multi-million renovation, it feels like you’ve stepped into a classic movie. With views of the famous Rock of Cashel, this five-star hotel offers an exquisite range of dining options utilising the best of its surrounds and local suppliers from the Golden Vale. Enjoy a pint of the black stuff in their Guinness Bar before an unforgettable meal in their fine-dining restaurant, The Bishop’s Buttery. Set in the vaults of the original Palace, its intimate interior coupled with open fire is like an inviting hug where you can savour their incredible six-course Table d’Hote menu. Expect dishes like the beef fillet or pan-roasted halibut with violet artichoke, mussel and beurre blanc. Luxury is threaded throughout the Cashel Palace experience ideal for a winter stay with fantastic food that will linger long in the memory.
Cashel Palace Hotel, Main St, St. Dominick’s Abbey, Cashel, Co. Tipperary
Mount Juliet Estate
The Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant at Mount Juliet Estate is a jewel in the crown of this beautiful country destination which dates to the 18th century and ideal for food lovers seeking a break this autumn and winter. This luxurious five-star hotel enjoys spectacular views and activities like golf and woodland walks amongst its 500 acres of grounds in the Kilkenny countryside. There are two properties on the estate, the stunning Georgian Manor House and the elegant Hunter’s Yard with everything from Michelin-starred cuisine to more casual dining and afternoon tea. Executive Head Chef John Kelly celebrates local Irish suppliers and farmers to design stunning dishes which includes the freshest produce from their walled garden. You can enjoy dishes like west coast turbot or Tipperary organic veal. For a truly special indulgence book their Decadent Delights package that includes a two-night stay in Manor House with a welcoming bottle of champagne, one lavish afternoon tea in Manor House, one unforgettable dinner in the Lady Helen and a cheese and wine tasting in the 1757 bar in Manor House.
Mount Juliet Estate, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny
Park Hotel Kenmare
Two of the island’s finest hoteliers Francis and John Brennan decided to make something positive out of lockdown with a €1 million refurbishment for their wonderful Kerry landmark hotel, Park Hotel Kenmare. The hotel, which dates from 1897, saw revered Irish designer Bryan O’Sullivan, who has worked on Claridges, create a new cocktail bar, champagne bar, and dining room. Head Chef, James Coffey, is behind the spectacular seven-course tasting menu which is something to behold. Expect dishes like cured and torched mackerel and Skeaghanore duck breast. Like many Blue Book properties, Coffey works closely with what comes from the kitchen garden as well as artisan suppliers from the stunning Iveragh and Beara peninsulas to create outstanding dishes. After a blissful tasting menu, the following morning’s breakfast is another joy with local eggs, bacon and sausages and kitchen garden seasonal gems like tomatoes, berries, and spinach. Each food experience here is extraordinarily special with warm, incredible hospitality that guests keep returning year after year.
Park Hotel Kenmare, Kenmare, Co. Kerry