Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa makes the perfect getaway for Dominique McMullan and her husband ahead of the festive chaos.
Just before the festive rush began in November, my husband and I retreated to Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, and my goodness, it was the perfect antidote to the business of home. Nestled just outside Clonakilty in West Cork, Inchedoney combines a truly stunning location with beautiful and luxurious accommodation, an award-winning spa and sumptuous dining… in short, everything you could hope for in a short escape.
Our time there was slow-paced bliss. We spent hours simply staring out at the sea nestled in the world’s cosiest bed. Inchedoney straddles two pristine beaches, and every corner feels as romantic and picturesque as the last, from soft sands to shifting skies – the views framed by the windows of our room were honestly out of this world.
We pulled ourselves away from the world’s best bed for an afternoon to visit The Island Spa and of course it was a highlight. Guests have complimentary access to the Seawater Therapy Pool, sauna, hammam, and ocean-view relaxation areas, as well as a refreshing fruit and juice bar. We indulged in a massage and a scrub, both divine, and left feeling lighter, calmer, and completely renewed. The sense of calm you feel while looking out over the Atlantic from the spa is unparalleled.
Dining at the Gulfstream Restaurant was another unforgettable experience. With sweeping views of the sea, the restaurant celebrates West Cork’s exceptional local produce. Over 60% of Ireland’s artisan producers are based in the region, and our meals showcased the best of them: Caherbeg pork, Dinish Island scallops, Skeaghanore duck, and Ummera smoked salmon. I savoured the scallops and a perfectly cooked steak, and of course I couldn’t miss the Clonakilty Pudding in the morning. Each dish was a testament to the quality of the ingredients and a very talented team of chefs. The service was exactly as you would expect from West Cork – warm and friendly, the kind of hospitality that makes you feel instantly at home.
Our final morning brought a magical moment: watching a young man propose at sunrise on the beach, the most breathtaking backdrop imaginable. It felt like the perfect, poetic note to end our stay.
If you haven’t yet visited Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, consider this your sign. Between the serenity, luxury, and sheer beauty of the place… trust me you deserve it.
Dominique McMullan was a guest of Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa
The ‘Unplug, Unwind & Reconnect’ package is priced from €440 per person sharing. To book or find out more, visit inchydoneyisland.com.
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