A crisp, fresh walk followed by a pint by the fire and a delicious meal is perhaps the perfect way to make the most of a spring weekend away – here are some ideas that balance gorgeous surroundings with cosy evenings in.
Ballynahinch Castle, Co Galway
While there’s plenty to do and see in Connemara, Ballynahinch is really one of those rare places you can simply luxuriate in doing nothing. Nab a squishy leather chair by the fire of the Ranji Room and read the paper, or meander out the terrace for a coffee in the sunshine and watch the graceful loops of the fisherman’s lines below as they tempt the salmon in the well-stocked lake.
FOOD AND DRINK There are so many wonderful spaces to enjoy here, from divine plates curated by Danni Barry in the Owenmore Restaurant overlooking the lake to the exquisite walled gardens designed by Mark Grehan. However, The Fisherman’s Pub and adjoining Ranji Room will inevitably become a favourite haunt. Well-worn brick floors and gorgeous muddy green walls merge with high ceilings, wood panelling, and antique furniture. Combined with a roaring fireplace, it creates a space that invites you to linger a few hours. Sometimes it’s difficult to tackle the old pub grub favourites – roast chicken, fish and chips, burgers, but the lunch and dinner menus in The Fisherman’s Pub elevate the typical Irish fare with bundles of flavour and five-star consideration. The smoked haddock, leek and mussel chowder is one of the best in a county littered with excellent seafood restaurants, and the seafood pie is also not to be missed.
WHAT TO DO Earn yourself such a hearty lunch with a walk around the Ballynahinch 700 acres of grounds, taking in woodlands, lakes, rivers and spectacular views of the Twelve Bens and Maumturks mountains. Or rent a bike from the front desk and head out to the new six-kilometre stretch of Connemara Greenway, which can be joined right from the gates of the hotel and meander through woodlands, over winding rivers and along the old Clifden railway line. If you fancy something a little more strenuous, Connemara’s National Park, a half-hour drive from the hotel, is a steep climb but boasts one of the best views over Kylemore Abbey and the craggy west coast.
Benner’s Hotel, Co Kerry
Set in the centre of Dingle, Benner’s is the oldest hotel in the town, dating back to the 1800s. Its location means it’s the perfect place from which to explore, and there is plenty to lure you there all year round. Rooms are cosy and comfortable, and the staff here go out of their way to make your stay memorable. From a friendly welcome to local recommendations, they’re always happy to help.
WHAT TO DO While there is plenty on your doorstep, from restaurants to walks and beautiful beaches, when you’re in this part of the country you should make the trip to Kerry Seas National Park, around half an hour’s drive away. The islands off the Kerry coast, offshore marine reefs, and nearby coastal mainland sites make up Ireland’s first marine National Park, and there is so much to explore. From Skellig Michael to puffin colonies, it’s bound to be a breathtaking trip – just make sure to dress for the weather. Once you’ve had your fill of outdoor adventures, there’s plenty to explore in the town. Head to The Coach House for Irish craft, interiors pieces and gifts; Lisbeth Mulcahy for scarves, wall hangings, and a selection of work from other makers; or Dingle Bookshop to pick up your next read.
FOOD AND DRINK After a day spent in the wilds of Kerry, there’s nothing better than warming up with a good meal and a drink. Head to Mrs Benner’s Bar for comforting pub food and a relaxed atmosphere where you’ll be happy to spend the evening reflecting on the day’s journeys. Choose from classics such as seafood chowder, Hereford striploin steak and Tournafulla black pudding salad, and finishing with a hot whiskey or an Irish coffee would go down well on a chilly day. You’ll also be set up for the day thanks to the extensive breakfast, with hot options as well as a buffet that includes carved ham, smoked salmon, and freshly baked brown bread.
The Cashel Palace, Co Tipperary
Sitting just below the famous Rock of Cashel, The Cashel Palace is a Palladian manor now known as one of Ireland’s most luxurious hotels. Its beautiful façade can be seen when walking through the town, and stepping inside, every detail is exquisite, from the unique bedrooms to the serene gardens.
WHAT TO DO One of the best things about staying here is that you might not want to leave this breathtaking building, and there’s really no need to. Treat yourself to a trip to the spa, a modern, glass-filled space where you can enjoy the tranquillity of the gardens. Book in for a treatment such as a Voya warm spiced mud wrap or an outdoor seaweed bath, or simply make use of the pool and thermal suite. If you do want to venture out, the hotel can organise equine experiences, hike one of the many nearby mountains or visit local food producers such as Cashel Farmhouse Cheesemakers, the makers of Cashel Blue, or The Apple Farm in Cahir, where you can pick up juice, cider, and vinegar all made from homegrown apples.
FOOD AND DRINK You’re spoilt for choice, whether you want fine dining, gastropub fare or just a quiet pint by the fire. Head to The Bishop’s Buttery for Michelin star dining, enjoy afternoon tea or lunch in The Queen Anne Room, or head to Mikey Ryan’s pub and restaurant. While Mikey Ryan’s is set on the main street in the town, the hotel has its own entrance at the back, and it shares the hotel’s same dedication to delicious local produce, with a menu that balances classic dishes with fresh takes. Stay for a drink, or stroll back to the hotel where you can relax in cosy surrounds in The Guinness Bar or Donoghue’s traditional pub. For something more refined, at The Residents Cocktail Bar chat to the mixologist about your preferences, and they’ll recommend something from the menu.
Wild Honey Inn, Co Clare
Quaint and unassuming, Wild Honey Inn stands on the corner of famed Clare village Lisdoonvarna, looking like many other Irish country guesthouses. Only the numerous cars parked out front and the warm glow within give you a hint of the joy to be found when you venture inside. No longer serving its Michelin-star-worthy dinner menu, you’ll have to book into one of the B&B rooms to sample chef Aidan McGrath’s divine dishes. A garden room, with entry onto your own private terrace, is highly recommended.
FOOD AND DRINK Owned by couple Kate Sweeney and front-of-house and chef Aidan McGrath, the interiors are everything you would want from a country pub experience – cosy, inviting and lived in enough that you wouldn’t panic if your wine glass took a tumble. Leaf through a copy of their Wild Honey Inn cookbook with a cup of tea by the fire or park up at the high bar for a chat.
WHAT TO DO As well as the nearby Doolin Caves, famed Cliffs of Moher and surf-central at Lahinch, there’s plenty to see and do within walking distance of Wild Honey Inn. Lisdoonvarna is known for its match-making festival, held in September every year, and you’ll see its remnants all over the colourful village. Book into the Burren Smokehouse, a short walk from Wild Honey Inn, for a salmon tasting menu or a tour of the facility, and make sure to pop into The Roadside Tavern on your way home. This tiny pub is renowned for its award-winning food, music sessions, and its own Burren Brewery, located on site.
This feature originally appeared in the autumn/winter 2024 issue of IMAGE Interiors. Have you thought about becoming a subscriber? Find out more, and sign up here.
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