Hayfield Manor in Cork City is one of Ireland’s finest 5 star hotels. Set next to the grounds of UCC amongst its own park land, it feels as if you are in the countryside; a stately manner at the end of a tree lined drive rather than 10 minutes from the heart of Ireland’s 3^rd city. Cork offers so much to see and do.

Hayfield Manor’s lobby maintains the style and grandeur of a country manor house; it is decorated with chesterfields and other period furniture. Rich mahoganies and deep red carpets. There are tome laden book shelves, with guests relaxing in front of open timber fires.

The rooms of the Hayfield Manor are equally as sumptuous, offering Chaise Longue’s, glorious

There are 2 restaurant options at Hayfield Manor, “Orchids” and Perrot’s Garden Bistro. The award winning head chef, offers contemporary Irish dining with a French twist, using much of the artisan food produce that County Cork is famous for. Main dishes including; Whole Roasted Irish Lobster Flambé with Whiskey, served with Spring Vegetables, and Tournedos of Wicklow Beef.beds and a decor that is impressive but not dauntingly so. The rooms are spacious and you can even get ones that have room for a putting machine. Soaking in the marble bathroom after a day’s shopping is the only way to distress in the evening time.

One thing that I have always noted about the Hayfield Manor, is how cordial and friendly the staff are. They really stand as genuinely pleasant people to stay with. This is not trained customer service, this is instinctive.

While you are staying in Hayfield Manor. I recommend that you venture in to Cork City Centre and visit the English Market, one of

Europe’s oldest food markets. Fota Wildlife park, a Safari style park is also a must see, it is readily accessible on a commuter train.

I hope that you enjoy your stay in Cork’s finest Hotel – Hayfield Manor.

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Over the last 15 years, as Ireland’s economy boomed, prices and costs to tourists rocketed accordingly. This affected our affordability as a destination for tourists. This seems to have changed substantially and Ireland is rapidly returning to being a very affordable destination for holidays.

A survey by Hotels.com, of 130,000 bookings across the world has placed Ireland as having the cheapest hotels out of 44 countries surveyed. No other Western European country had cheaper hotels rooms.  This new affordability has led to a 11% increase in tourist no’s for Ireland, after several years of declining revenue and volumes. This growth was primarily driven by an influx of American tourists but also a doubling of Chinese visitors. A market that has Irish hotel operators salivating, any potential growth in that market will be significant due to the large Chinese Middle Class.  It is a welcome return to positive growth, as the tourism sector has been severely hit by the downturn with 83 golf courses and Hotels closed in the last 2 years.  1000 bars have also being shut since it began. A significant loss of jobs has resulted.

The average across the state in prices is €79 euros ($104 dollars), and within Dublin it is only €73 for a room. This compares quiet favourably to other European capitals, with Paris at €120, London at €135 and Rome at €113.  The most affordable holiday destination in Ireland was Waterford, where hotels rooms were priced at €56.

The most popular areas for tourists to visit in Ireland continue to be Dublin and Kerry, the West of Ireland continues to decline. A real pity as it is one of the real hidden treasuries of visiting Ireland.

The Irish Govt. has committed to supporting the tourism industry and making it a central plank of growth in the economy, it is labour intensive and it brings in hard cash and it is an indigenous sector that will not relocate.

Tourism in Ireland is turning a corner, costs cutting is starting to reflect in the bottom line but it will take more time for that to lead to a stabilized sector.

Good news for the sector though is welcome, it has been in short supply after the last few years.

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Clonakilty is located in the heart of West Cork, a town of several thousand that has a great energy and buzz about it. It is noted as a thriving centre of musicians both modern and contemporary. For a town of 5000 people, it often has more live music than a small city like Kilkenny. It’s vibrancy has proven a strong draw to famous musicians, with Noel Redding, the bass guitarist from the Jimi Hendrix Experience residing there. Clonakilty is a place apart, like all of this region, although in Cork, it is always referred to as West Cork by the locals. They know that it is different.

Clonakilty hosts several festivals every year, among these are The Clonakilty International Guitar Festival in mid-September ,The Motion festival and The Waterfront Festival in August.

So where to stay in Clonakilty?. Here are my top 5 hotels in Clonakilty.

1.  Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa Hotel, Clonakilty.

Inchydoney Hotel & Spa Clonakilty

This wonderful hotel is located just outside the town of Clonakilty and is situated on one of County Cork’s finest beaches – Inchydoney. It has stunning views of the Atlantic from its rooms, it is very pleasant to hear the soft murmer of the waves at night as you are going to sleep. Inchydoney has been voted Ireland’s best Spa in 2010 and Ireland’s leading resort 2009, by the World Travel Awards.

The hotel has apartments or rooms to choose from, 2 wonderful restaurants and they consistently have events going on. Shortly they will be featuring “A taste of West Cork”, which is a 7 course tasting menu of the finest produce that West Cork has to offer.  Two quiet unique features that Inchydoney lodge have is that their beach is world famous for surfing and for whale watching.

2. Fernhill House Hotel, Clonakilty.

Fernhill House Hotel Clonakilty

Located on the edge of Clonakilty, Fernhill House Hotel is a period style residence, set on 4 acres of wonderfully kept gardens. The really are breath taking, West Cork receives the full warmth of the Gulf Stream, so the variety of exotic plants is exceptional. Fernhill House Hotel has a restaurant that provides. Their Clonakilty Black Pudding Spring Roll is a very original touch on a local delicacy and their fresh cod from Union Hall bay is superb. They have been perfected their hotel in Clonakilty for the last 40 years and they have reached their goal.

3. Dunmore House Hotel, Clonakilty.

Dunmore House Hotel is a 3rd generation family run hotel in Clonakilty, the hotels is very much in the tradition of the gentry house in look and its decor is very original as well, the elegance of a period house. The hotel has 28 rooms that are all individually decorated in a fresh contemporary style, . Dunmore House features views of the Atlantic and a 9 hole golf course on site. The staff really make this place there is absolutely nothing that they will not do to help. Great views, Great food, Great Times!

4. The Clonakilty Hotel

This Georgina Campbell recommended hotel is located in the heart of Clonakilty. It has a charm all of its own, a real character hotel, that really appeals to guests, who have become jaded by the carbon copy hotels that have sprung up worldwide. Costelloe’s Malthouse Restaurant nearby is owned and run by the same family and provides excellent food at a reasonable price. There is food in the Clonakilty hotel as well, in their new restaurant iCollins, a reference to the noted chef from Costelloe’s.

5. o’Donovans Hotel, Clonakilty.

O’ Donovan’s Hotel or “Óstán Uí Dhonnabháin” is a sixth generation family run hotel in the heart of Clonakilty, West Cork. It is a quiet historical hotel, and interesting photo’s and antiquities can be found throughout. It has had many famous guests in its time, including the great Irish Republican leader Micheal Collins, Charles Stuart Parnell and Marconi. It is a competitively priced hotel. One of the great features of this hotel in Clonakilty is “An Téach béag” – the small house. It is a small cottage that was originally a storehouse for the hotel but is now used as a music venue, it has had glowing reports in Lonely Planets and other more guides. Indeed Holidayaroundireland.com have enjoyed it as well. ;0.

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A very special light has been lit on the Cork-Waterford coastline. The Cliff House Hotel is a stylish hideaway offering a unique, 21st-century take on the intimate sea-side hotel of yesteryear.  Steeped in history and carved into the Irish coastline at Ardmore fishing village, The Cliff House Hotel, one of only three members of Relais et Chateaux in Ireland, is a chic boutique hotel, full of personality and signature ocean features.  Independently owned, the hotel is managed by Adriaan Bartels, formerly the General Manager of Sheen Falls Lodge, Co Kerry.

The Cliff House Hotel is like no other hotel in Ireland. With its imposing granite stone façade, the entrance to the hotel acts as a gateway to the breathtaking vista ofArdmoreBay, rolling out to theIrish Sea. The panoramic se view seen through the floor to ceiling windows makes one momentarily feel like a passenger aboard a luxury liner.

Encompassing 39 bedrooms, a restaurant and private dining room, 2 reception rooms and a bar, The Cliff House Hotel dramatically spans seven floors gradually edging down to the shore.

Service at The Cliff House Hotel is friendly and relaxed. It’s One Michelin Star restaurant, The House Restaurant, headed up by Dutch culinary genius Martijn Kajuiter, has become a gourmet haven. The jewel in the crown of this luxurious hotel is its expansive terrace which extends onto landscaped gardens and offers unbroken ocean views, ideal for all-day dining and entertainment.

The Cliff House Hotel is a virtuoso building with a difference. The cleverly designed interior draws the landscape inwards using natural materials and warm and inviting furnishings which create an extremely relaxing and luxurious environment.  A palette of deep marine blue, fuchsia, aubergine and sea green instantly evoke the surrounding coastline and countryside. Interestingly, the hotel houses the largest private collection of antique Campaign furniture in Ireland.

BEDROOMS

Bedrooms are akin to secluded beach residences, each with their own private terrace overlooking the sea.  The bespoke rooms are styled with Campaign antiques and oversized furniture upholstered in modern linens and tweeds. Beds are back lit with unique headboards designed by a number of local artists using indigenous Irish materials such as linen, wood, glass and dried petals.

Rooms at The Cliff House Hotel range from the Cliff Veranda Suites to Sea View deluxe doubles, all featuring Wi-Fi and flatscreen TVs.

The bathrooms are a real treat to the eye with luscious coloured mosaic tiles and vibrantly coloured glass, which smartly contrast with the granite grey stone characteristic of the hotel. Etro luxury bath products sit easily atop the egg-shaped floor standing baths; while in the Veranda Suites, guests can shower quite literally under the stars as the enclosed glass surrounding the double shower extends onto the balcony.

FOOD

The House restaurant, having achieved a One Star Michelin in January 2010, has become a gourmet retreat for food connoisseurs who want to take a culinary journey that culminates in a truly magical dining experience.  Head chef Martijn Kajuiter has worked with many Michelin star chefs in the past including Marco Pierre White in The Restaurant at The Hyde Park and Pierre Koffman of Le Tante Claire.  Prior to joining The Cliff House, Martijn was Head Chef at Restaurant De Kas which is one of Amsterdam’s most exciting and successful restaurants.

The House restaurant offers a seasonal menu where only the freshest and finest food is served – perhaps lobster caught that morning, crab from the bay or locally reared meat served with home grown vegetables. Martijn is passionate about sourcing food locally and has already established an organic vegetable garden with St Raphael’s Centre in Youghal.  The Chef’s table seats 18 diners and is adjacent to the restaurant. Children are well catered for with early suppers prepared from fresh and seasonal produce.

LEISURE AND BEAUTY

The serenity of the sea is carried through to the Well Spa making it a tranquil retreat for guests. The family-sized swimming pool virtually disappears into the sea with only a glass wall separating the two. The surrounding floor is made of smooth, pebble stones reminiscent of the sandy Irish coast-line.

The Well Spa also features an outdoor Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, fully-equipped gym and three treatment rooms where expert therapists work their magic.  The restorative nature of the Voya organic seaweed products or the luxury of an Ann Semonin facial can be enjoyed whilst basking in soulful views over theIrish Sea.

OUTDOOR

 For outdoor activities few will be able to resist the lure of the sea that can be accessed directly from the hotel via a private pontoon, a first for an Irish hotel.

A gentle stroll on Ardmore Beachcan be followed by the cliff walk or an exploration of the historical Round Tower and St Declans Well which markArdmorevillage as the oldest Christian settlement in Ireland.

Organised water activities can be arranged by the hotel including water-skiing, deep sea fishing, sea cruises, windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving and sailing. Golf enthusiasts can be assured tee-times in nearby award winning courses such as Dungarvan Golf Club,FotaIslandinCorkor The Old Head, Kinsale.

The Cliff House Hotel is a retreat for all seasons whether it is time spent in winter curled up by the fire as waves crash against the rugged coastline, or basking in the summer sunshine whilst sipping refreshments on the terrace.

The old Cliff House Hotel served the historic village of Ardmorefor 80 years; the new Cliff House Hotel is as true to those roots. It is a complete hide-away where you can escape to your room where the only sound you will hear is the sea lapping at the shore.  It’s perfect!

www.thecliffhousehotel.com (024) 87800

For further information, please contact The Hotel directly on 024 87800 or email: info@thecliffhousehotel.com.

Architects: Coughlan Dekayser Associates

Interior Designer: Garry Cohn for Douglas Wallace

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Ashford Castle in the West of Ireland has had quiet a distinguished history in the 900 years since it was built by the DeBurgo family. The castle has been transformed from a defensive Irish Castle, next a Chateau style building and now in its latest re-incarnation – a Victorian Gothic Castle. At the moment Asford Castle is a hotel, it has been since 1939 when Noel Huggard purchased it. Given its location in the wilds of Connemara, it quickly developed a reputation as one of Europe’s best destinations for fishing and shooting.

Ashford Castle Hotel, Ireland

Indeed  the Prince of Wales, George 5th, a passionate hunter came for three days and ended up staying for 3 months. Other famous hotel Guests at Ashford Castle, include John Wayne and Maureen o’Hara, both of whom stayed there while filming “The Quiet Man” in the nearby village of Cong. Ronald Reagan and Nancy stayed for a night during his visit to Ireland in 1984. The vast grounds and richly decorated interior of the Castle caused the Secret Service agents no end of trouble, as every nook in the castle is filled with antique furniture. All of which had to be examined for Hotel to be deemed safe for the President to visit.

Ashford Castle itself has 83 bedrooms, and numerous halls and drawing rooms in which guests can relax, in many of the drawing rooms open fires are lit, in vast fireplaces, burning turf from the nearby mountain bogs.  Giving a rich glow and a special scent to the air. One that is unique nowadays to the west of Ireland. All of the rooms are spacious and individually designed, bathrooms are fitted out to an exceptional standard. They all offer stunning views across the magnificent gardens and waterways, whether that be Lough Corrib or the River Corrib.

Lough Corrib is a vast lake of 41,000 acres and has hundreds of Islands contained within. Many of which feature ancient monastic settlements and are a popular day boat trip from Ashford Castle. The lake is noted for its wild Salmon and Trout fishing, with anglers from all over Ireland coming there. Frank Costelloe, the “Orvis” rated Ghillie, has lived next to Lough Corrib all his life, and knows the best spots on the lake for fishing Salmon, from their runs in February to the high-points in the lake in July.

The hotel provides several eating and entertainment options. The “George v” Restaurant features a Michelin Star Chef and harkens back to a time when dining was more refined, and formal dining experience. For a more casual eating experience there is Cullen’s Cottage, which features a bistro style menu.

The Dungeon bar, is where guests can go at night to unwind, relax and enjoy themselves. It is quiet an experience, as it feature many excellent Irish musicians and artists, singing, dancing and storytelling. Their Irish Coffee’s are fantastic, as is their selection of Irish Whiskey, a real conneseurs haven.

Outside of the Castle itself, Ashford estate has 300 acres of gardens, boasting specimen tree’s from Ireland and from around the world. On the edge of the garndens, there is a beautiful 9 hole 2996 yards par 35 parkland course, that was designed by Eddie Hackett, a renowned Irish golf course designer, who was behind Dooks Golf Course, one of the finest links courses anywhere in the world.

Ashford Castle is Ireland’s most exclusive Castle Hotel and has built up a reputation for luxury over 60 years in operation. I am certain that if yo visit that you will find it just as wonderful as I and many other have.

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Waterford has a wonderful selection of hotels and is becoming a more popular tourist destination all the time.

Cliffhouse Hotel of Ardmore, Waterford

The Cliff House Hotel is a stylish hideaway offering a unique, 21st-century take on the intimate sea-side hotel of yesteryear.  Steeped in history and carved into the Irish coastline at Ardmore fishing village, The Cliff House Hotel, one of only three members of Relais et Chateaux in Ireland, is a chic boutique hotel, full of personality and signature ocean features.  Independently owned, the hotel is managed by Adriaan Bartels, formerly the General Manager of Sheen Falls Lodge, Co Kerry.

Whites of Wexford

Photo by flickr.com/photos/litlg/

This four-star hotel is conveniently located in a central location near Westgate Tower, Selskar Abbey and the Irish National Heritage Park. Business travelers will find many useful amenities including a business center, meeting rooms and administrative assistant services. Amenities that are sure to satisfy all guests include complimentary daily breakfast, full-service spa, indoor pool and steam room. If you are hosting an event in Wexofrd, the Whites of Wexford can accommodate your group with various ballrooms, exhibit space, and full banquet services. 24-hour room service is available in addition to an onsite restaurant.

Whitford House Hotel

This family-managed, 4-star hotel is situated a short distance from a vast array of outdoor attractions. The pristine beaches, numerous golf courses, and the Opera festival are just a few minutes away. If one is hosting an upcoming event, the Whitford House’ distinctive furnishings and design set it apart from the standard hotel. Your guests will be thanking you for choosing this hotel for your next conference or social gathering. They provide full conference facilities including an innovative conference center. Families will be just as pleased with the kiddie pool, kids club, health club that includes a spa and fitness center, and a highly-rated restaurant.

Maple Lodge Bed and Breakfast

If one is looking for a cozy, home-away-from-home environment, Maple Lodge Bed and Breakfast should be on the list. This 4-star bed and breakfast offers the comforts of home including a hearty, homemade breakfast every morning, which includes bacon, sausage, egg, porridge, eggs and more. For evening tea/coffee, the community lounge affords a serene setting to rest, read, or play one of the many board games on display. Maple Lodge Bed and Breakfast is in an ideal location, which affords serenity, yet it is within a driving distance to many of the local attractions including Johnstown Castle.

Dunbrody Country House and Spa

This luxurious 4-star hotel is within 30 minutes from Wexford, but upon checking-in, one will realize that the short drive was well worth it. This hotel recently won the Gold Medal Award for Excellence. The setting is unique in that it is situated amongst acres of beautiful gardens. Dunbrody truly caters to every travelers needs. For business travelers, you will find a library and small meeting room for conference calls or private business meetings. For the event planner, you will find various conference rooms that will accommodate your next event, along with full banquet services to provide the food and beverage for your event. For individuals or families simply traveling through Wexford, you will appreciate the full spa and steam room, and top-rated onsite restaurant. This hotel will exceed the expectations of the most finicky traveler.

Wexford, Ireland is home to numerous high-quality hotels that strive to exceed the expectations of every guest. By doing this, each hotel affords its own unique style that guests are sure to appreciate. Hotels are set up differently in that some are bed and breakfasts, which provide a homely feel, and others are luxurious and extravagant.

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