By Marlene Wessels
26th Jul 2022
26th Jul 2022
David Olsthorn
Is there any nicer way to catch up with your loved ones than by booking a hotel break away together? Here, Marlene Wessels shares her favourite Irish spot that's perfect for a night away with your teenagers – the Armada Hotel in Clare.
WHO TO BRING… Your teenagers.
WHAT? A welcoming hotel in the West of Ireland overlooking the Atlantic ocean, this is the perfect base to explore the natural beauty of West Clare, and you’re pretty much guaranteed the sound of crashing waves in the background.
WHY? I have learned that the only way to get our teenagers to spend time with us is to book a night in a hotel. The Armada, with its utterly Instagrammable interior and scenic setting, is the perfect place to bring any moody teenager. Apart from pleasing the teens, I almost lost my husband in the cosy Johnny Burke’s pub, where the Armada’s very own Mist + Moss gin is a must-try.
I fell in love with the incredible uninterrupted sea views, not only from our bedroom but also from the newly renovated Aileen’s restaurant. Work by local artists is scattered throughout the hotel, as are interesting snippets of Spanish Armada history, giving you a real connection to the area. The food did not disappoint either.
The menu featured locally farmed free-range meats and vegetables from their own Armada Farm and nearby Moy Hill Farm and had the whole family happy; breakfast was also superb.
HIGHLIGHTS: Without a doubt, the location is the Armada Hotel’s USP. Even from the comfort of your room, the sea views are incredible, but if you like that windswept feeling there are many winding country roads to explore with stone walls and spectacular views. The Cliffs of Moher are a short drive away or if you’re feeling energetic, hike the Cliffs of Moher Trail Walk, go surfing in Spanish Point or explore the Burren National Park. The Armada Hotel also manages the Gate Lodge at the Armada Farm, a self-catering hideaway with its own outdoor seaweed bath – a real design gem.
THIS SPRING: The Armada is welcoming guests to their newly completed €3 million expansion and renovations, including the 90-seater restaurant, a café, bar, private dining area, and new dedicated space for weddings and events. Bed and breakfast from €195.
Photography by David Olsthorn. This article originally appeared in the Spring issue of IMAGE Magazine.
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