Offering a seamless blend of luxury and pure comfort, this five-star retreat should be at the top of your list for a special 2025 getaway.
After a very busy Christmas with two young kids and lots of family time, my partner and I managed to escape to Sheen Falls Lodge in Kerry for two nights of much-needed quiet time in January.
After a (gorgeous and quiet!) four hour drive, we arrived at Sheen Falls at sunset, and as we pulled up, the shoreline to the lodge was glowing in the winter evening sun. Inside, a crackling fire and welcoming staff greeted us, as did a very welcome glass of warm whiskey. The tone was set for what would be the most perfect, restorative stay.
Our accommodation, the Oscar Suite, was perfection. Spacious, elegant, and exceptionally comfortable; it was decorated with Irish art and there were beautiful tactile fabrics covering every surface. Thoughtful touches were everywhere, from the king-size bed and marble bathroom (complete with a roll-top tub and Elemis toiletries) to the large sitting area that opened onto a private terrace, overlooking the roaring falls. The terrace was a highlight, I could very comfortably sit there every morning with a cup of tea and a white fluffy robe taking in the dramatic January landscape.
Dinner on our first night at the Stables Brasserie was relaxed and very enjoyable. The atmosphere was cosy and the menu offered all the classics, think burgers and pasta but elevated. The next morning, breakfast in the main restaurant hit the spot while overlooking the falls. I’d recommend getting a window seat if you can, as the view is the perfect complement to your meal.
We spent part of the day exploring the grounds, and then enjoying a crisp stroll along the Bay Walk (bring wellies if you’re going in winter). This was followed by a visit to Kenmare where we browsed a few gorgeous interiors shops (Mango Crafts in particular had furniture I was dying to take home), before enjoying a drink at the very trendy, cosy bar at The Lansdowne Hotel.
Later that afternoon, we visited the Easanna Spa, which was another highlight of the weekend. The treatments, provided by the award-winning Irish brand Ground Wellbeing, were exceptional. My massage, tailored to address real-world stresses, was one of the best I’ve ever experienced. It was relaxing yet deeply effective, and left me floating off to dinner.
For our second evening, we dined at The Falls Restaurant, which was a more formal affair that didn’t disappoint. The scallops, steak, and raspberry soufflé were perfectly prepared, and paired with the live music and lovely staff, you couldn’t help but feel spoiled. It’s clear the restaurant team takes pride in every detail. We were particularly impressed with the thoughtfully curated wine list and helpful sommelier.
The stay reminded us how important it is to carve out moments of quiet and pause where possible, especially in January when the world can feel, let’s be honest, bleak. Sheen Falls Lodge offers a seamless blend of luxury and pure comfort, making it an ideal destination for anyone in need of some rest and rejuvenation. If you’re considering a break in 2025, this five-star retreat should be at the top of your list.
Dominique McMullan was a guest of Sheen Falls Lodge.
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