Ireland’s Blue Book
Hotels & Restaurants
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Wild Atlantic Way
Spanning 2,500 km from Donegal to Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the world’s longest and most dramatic coastal touring routes.
discover
Mayo
Belleek Castle
Belleek Castle…an iconic Castle, gourmet restaurant, hotel and spectacular wedding venue on the Wild Atlantic Way… Built on an Abbey dating from mediaeval times, the 1820’s neo-gothic Castle is informal, cosy, warm and friendly, rich in decor and antiquities, with open log fires to light your steps back through this cultural adventure.
discover
Cork
Blairscove House & Restaurant
For the active, the Sheep’s Head peninsula boasts miles and miles of scenic walks.
discover
Kerry
Cahernane House Hotel
Killarney has walks to suit all interests from a short scenic stroll through Killarney National Park to exhilarating hiking in the MacGillicuddy Reeks – the highest mountain range in Ireland. Walks of Killarney National Park can start from the hotel or bicycles are available for guests who may prefer to cycle. Why not bring a picnic, supplied by the hotel, along with you? Details of hikes in the Kerry area are available for guests or private guides can be arranged through the hotel.
discover
Kerry
Carrig Country House
Following (reasonably closely) the route of the Ring of Kerry, but taking in even more tranquil areas and breathtaking scenery, is the Kerry way. The Kerry Way is the longest way-marked trail in Ireland, taking in Killarney National Park, mountain passes, and coastal paths. Its circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula is 215km (135 miles).
discover
Galway
Cashel House Hotel
Situated in the heart of Connemara, on the west coast of Ireland, Cashel House Hotel is set in 50 acres of award-winning gardens containing many woodland walks.
discover
Donegal
Castle Grove Country House Hotel
Castle Grove is one of the few remaining private estates in the northwest of Ireland. Pass through the gates and you are in a different world, an oasis of privacy and tranquillity rarely found today. This Georgian house, overlooking Lough Swilly is ideally placed between Letterkenny and Rathmullan and within driving distance of 20 golf courses. Come and dine, stay and relax at Castle Grove in an atmosphere of comfort and hospitality.
discover
Mayo
Clare Island Lighthouse
Clare Islands’ remarkably varied topography offers the ideal terrain for both the serious hill-walker and the casual visitor out for a relaxing stroll. Maps of suggested walking routes and looped trails are available for walkers and hill-walkers at the harbour.
discover
Sligo
Coopershill House
Coopershill, with its delightful paths through acres of woods and deer pastures, is a walker’s paradise. For those on a walking holiday, some of the more popular walks are clearly signed, particularly in Yeats’ County. Coopershill provide walking guide books with marked walking routes for the more adventurous
discover
Galway
Currarevagh House
Old fashioned (in the best sense of the word), Currarevagh House is a Victorian country manor romantically situated on the shores of Lough Corrib, within 150 acres of private woodland, Currarevagh House offers guests 4-star quality guest accommodation, on the shores of Lough Corrib.
discover
Galway
Delphi Lodge
For anyone considering holidaying in Connemara with walking or hillwalking in mind, Delphi Lodge is a superb location, sitting within the borders of County Mayo & County Galway in the West of Ireland. Delphi Lodge is a charming 1830’s Country House set in the Delphi Valley and surrounded by some of Ireland’s most beautiful, dramatic and challenging mountain ranges. Delphi Lodge is the ideal base from which to avail of the endless low, medium and high level walking that Connemara and the West of Ireland are famous for.
discover
Clare
Dromoland Castle
Surrounded by five hundred acres of unspoiled parklands and woodlands, steeped in a thousand years of eventful history, and brimming with an irrepressible spirit of five-star delight, the 16th century Dromoland Castle is a self-contained world of lighthearted luxury.
discover
Kerry
Dromquinna Manor Estate
Welcome to the Dromquinna Manor Estate, a 40-acre waterfront setting that feels as if it is a million miles away from the rest of the world. The estate with its extensive woodland and rolling grounds is sprinkled with a unique collection of places to stay from Luxury Camping, Estate Houses, The Hideaway, Potting Sheds to the Courtyard Mews.
discover
Cork
Dunowen House
Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, Dunowen House is surrounded by stunning landscapes, coves and beaches, offering plenty of options for walkers.
discover
Mayo
Enniscoe House
Enniscoe House is listed as a heritage house of Ireland and has passed through twelve generations of the family to the present owner, Susan Kellett. She has since been joined by her son, DJ Kellett.
discover
Cork
Fernhill House & Gardens
Fernhill House, owned by the fourth generation of the O’Neill family, is a historic Georgian Mansion House set on 13 acres of outstanding gardens overlooking West Cork’s rolling countryside. Fernhill’s gardens are among the finest in Ireland and were designed by Chelsea Gold Medal winner Mary Reynolds. The gardens inspire everything at Fernhill including their own gin and food which features produce from their Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden encouraging sustainability. Fernhill is currently ranked as the 7th best hotel in Ireland on Tripadvisor and won the award for ‘Irelands Best Wedding Venue’ at the Gold Medal Awards this year. Fernhill is perfect for exploring West Cork with its many walks, scenic drives, beaches, islands, Michael Collins sites, West Cork Garden Trail and more.
discover
Galway
Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate
Nestled peacefully on a stunning 138-acre estate on the edge of Ireland’s largest lake, Lough Corrib, the 5 Star newly-refurbished Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate offers the discerning traveller a warm, personable and luxurious base during their travels to Galway.
discover
Clare
Gregans Castle Hotel
The Burren is one of Ireland’s surprises for the stroller or the serious hiker. A special area of limestone mountain scenery, with a distinctive beauty and holding a wealth of treasure for the botanist and explorer of historic ruins. In the midst of this wilderness lies Gregans Castle Hotel, at the foot of the Corkscrew Hill, with breathtaking views over the mystical Burren mountains and Galway Bay.
discover
Mayo
Ice House Hotel
There are many interesting walks ranging in difficulty, depending on how far you would like to go. The Ice House can provide you with all the information and equipment you need, so simply stroll on down to reception and get started.
discover
Kerry
Killarney Royal Townhouse
The beautiful Killarney National Park uses a self-guided nature trail which follows in the footsteps of the English agriculturist Arthur Young who visited Muckross in 1776. You start and finish the walk at Muckross House. The terrain is mainly level paths and roads. Walking in Killarney will bring you to see nature and unique wildlife wherever you go. 2007 saw the start of a reintroduction programme of the white-tailed sea eagle in Killarney. Today you can regularly see these eagles in the Killarney/Kerry area and beyond.
discover
Cork
Liss Ard Estate
Breathe in the fresh country air and take in the stunning scenery as you stroll by the glittering and ever-changing lake at Liss Ard Estate. Succumb to the breath-taking views over Lough Abisdealy. The woods are awash with golden light in the mornings as the sun rises! There are a whole host of exceptional walks, from short jaunts to longer leisurely strolls on the Estate and around the local townland.
discover
Limerick
No 1 Pery Square Townhouse & Spa
Overlooking the handsome, tree-lined Peoples Park in Limerick’s historic Georgian Quarter, No.1 Pery Square is a luxurious and intimate boutique townhouse. Situated just 5 min’s walk from the city centre & train/bus station.
discover
Kerry
Park Hotel Kenmare
Since 1897 many world travellers have enjoyed the pleasure of Park Hotel Kenmare and its renowned restaurant. Set in a heavenly location overlooking Kenmare Bay the hotel is in the heart of Ireland’s most scenic countryside.
discover
Cork
Perryville House
A trip to Kinsale is not complete without taking in one of the beautiful walking or running routes our town has to offer. You’ll enjoy unique vantage points of area that you may not otherwise see, from breathtaking coastal paths to superb views of the town, you won’t be disappointed by the various loops and trails on hand. Routes include the Scilly Walk, a stroll to Charles Fort or enjoy a guided walk around the town where you will not only get your steps in but also enjoy a rich education of the town’s history.
discover
Donegal
Rathmullan House
For many walkers, Donegal is second to none amongst Ireland’s generous collection of places to explore. Donegal’s mountains are quite modest in height but they offer the chance of some truly superb panoramas. Within an hour’s drive from Rathmullan House, the following walks are recommended Ards Forest Park, Ards Forest Park, Lough Salt Mountain, Melmore Head, Slieve Snaght…
discover
Galway
Rosleague Manor
The Connemara Loop is situated in breathtaking North West Connemara in County Galway. From Rosleague Manor, follow the Loop and be taken on a journey through an ever-changing landscape of majestic mountains, spectacular beaches, the wild Atlantic, mist covered lakes, pre-historic bogs and shady glens.
discover
Kerry
The Lansdowne Kenmare
Kerry is famed for its walks nearly as much as it is for its warm people, one of the most appealing aspects of walking in Kenmare is that there is a range of routes that you can follow without any guides, maps, or specialised equipment. The Lansdowne Kenmare welcome guests with a Heritage Trail Map of Kenmare. This walk is perfect for those who love to walk, explore , have nice stops for refreshments and just love walking in loafers! It can take an hour or two or more depending on stops and really brings the history of the town to life. The Kerry Way is deservedly Ireland’s most famous long distance walk as well as its longest. This 215km walking route loosely follows the route of the famous Ring of Kerry. Enjoy some of the most breath-taking sections of the walk from Kenmare. Climbing enthusiasts, Kenmare is close to the McGillycuddy Reeks, the highest peaks in Ireland. Unless you are experienced in the mountains and are used to reading maps, you should use an insured guide for ascending peaks such as Carrauntoohil. At 1,039 metres (3,414 feet), Carrauntoohil is a beacon for walkers, and with views from the summit extending up to 160km in fine weather, it is well worth the trek.
discover
Limerick
The Mustard Seed
Nestled in the heart of the Co. Limerick countryside is The Mustard Seed, a converted 19th-century convent. This celebrated and comfortable country house is set on ten acres of mature trees, herbaceous borders, orchard and kitchen garden.
discover
Mayo
Belleek Castle
Belleek Castle…an iconic Castle, gourmet restaurant, hotel and spectacular wedding venue on the Wild Atlantic Way… Built on an Abbey dating from mediaeval times, the 1820’s neo-gothic Castle is informal, cosy, warm and friendly, rich in decor and antiquities, with open log fires to light your steps back through this cultural adventure.
discover
Cork
Blairscove House & Restaurant
For the active, the Sheep’s Head peninsula boasts miles and miles of scenic walks.
discover
Kerry
Cahernane House Hotel
Killarney has walks to suit all interests from a short scenic stroll through Killarney National Park to exhilarating hiking in the MacGillicuddy Reeks – the highest mountain range in Ireland. Walks of Killarney National Park can start from the hotel or bicycles are available for guests who may prefer to cycle. Why not bring a picnic, supplied by the hotel, along with you? Details of hikes in the Kerry area are available for guests or private guides can be arranged through the hotel.
discover
Kerry
Carrig Country House
Following (reasonably closely) the route of the Ring of Kerry, but taking in even more tranquil areas and breathtaking scenery, is the Kerry way. The Kerry Way is the longest way-marked trail in Ireland, taking in Killarney National Park, mountain passes, and coastal paths. Its circuit of the Iveragh Peninsula is 215km (135 miles).
discover
Galway
Cashel House Hotel
Situated in the heart of Connemara, on the west coast of Ireland, Cashel House Hotel is set in 50 acres of award-winning gardens containing many woodland walks.
discover
Donegal
Castle Grove Country House Hotel
Castle Grove is one of the few remaining private estates in the northwest of Ireland. Pass through the gates and you are in a different world, an oasis of privacy and tranquillity rarely found today. This Georgian house, overlooking Lough Swilly is ideally placed between Letterkenny and Rathmullan and within driving distance of 20 golf courses. Come and dine, stay and relax at Castle Grove in an atmosphere of comfort and hospitality.
discover
Mayo
Clare Island Lighthouse
Clare Islands’ remarkably varied topography offers the ideal terrain for both the serious hill-walker and the casual visitor out for a relaxing stroll. Maps of suggested walking routes and looped trails are available for walkers and hill-walkers at the harbour.
discover
Sligo
Coopershill House
Coopershill, with its delightful paths through acres of woods and deer pastures, is a walker’s paradise. For those on a walking holiday, some of the more popular walks are clearly signed, particularly in Yeats’ County. Coopershill provide walking guide books with marked walking routes for the more adventurous
discover
Galway
Currarevagh House
Old fashioned (in the best sense of the word), Currarevagh House is a Victorian country manor romantically situated on the shores of Lough Corrib, within 150 acres of private woodland, Currarevagh House offers guests 4-star quality guest accommodation, on the shores of Lough Corrib.
discover
Galway
Delphi Lodge
For anyone considering holidaying in Connemara with walking or hillwalking in mind, Delphi Lodge is a superb location, sitting within the borders of County Mayo & County Galway in the West of Ireland. Delphi Lodge is a charming 1830’s Country House set in the Delphi Valley and surrounded by some of Ireland’s most beautiful, dramatic and challenging mountain ranges. Delphi Lodge is the ideal base from which to avail of the endless low, medium and high level walking that Connemara and the West of Ireland are famous for.
discover
Clare
Dromoland Castle
Surrounded by five hundred acres of unspoiled parklands and woodlands, steeped in a thousand years of eventful history, and brimming with an irrepressible spirit of five-star delight, the 16th century Dromoland Castle is a self-contained world of lighthearted luxury.
discover
Kerry
Dromquinna Manor Estate
Welcome to the Dromquinna Manor Estate, a 40-acre waterfront setting that feels as if it is a million miles away from the rest of the world. The estate with its extensive woodland and rolling grounds is sprinkled with a unique collection of places to stay from Luxury Camping, Estate Houses, The Hideaway, Potting Sheds to the Courtyard Mews.
discover
Cork
Dunowen House
Located on the Wild Atlantic Way, Dunowen House is surrounded by stunning landscapes, coves and beaches, offering plenty of options for walkers.
discover
Mayo
Enniscoe House
Enniscoe House is listed as a heritage house of Ireland and has passed through twelve generations of the family to the present owner, Susan Kellett. She has since been joined by her son, DJ Kellett.
discover
Cork
Fernhill House & Gardens
Fernhill House, owned by the fourth generation of the O’Neill family, is a historic Georgian Mansion House set on 13 acres of outstanding gardens overlooking West Cork’s rolling countryside. Fernhill’s gardens are among the finest in Ireland and were designed by Chelsea Gold Medal winner Mary Reynolds. The gardens inspire everything at Fernhill including their own gin and food which features produce from their Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden encouraging sustainability. Fernhill is currently ranked as the 7th best hotel in Ireland on Tripadvisor and won the award for ‘Irelands Best Wedding Venue’ at the Gold Medal Awards this year. Fernhill is perfect for exploring West Cork with its many walks, scenic drives, beaches, islands, Michael Collins sites, West Cork Garden Trail and more.
discover
Galway
Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate
Nestled peacefully on a stunning 138-acre estate on the edge of Ireland’s largest lake, Lough Corrib, the 5 Star newly-refurbished Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate offers the discerning traveller a warm, personable and luxurious base during their travels to Galway.
discover
Clare
Gregans Castle Hotel
The Burren is one of Ireland’s surprises for the stroller or the serious hiker. A special area of limestone mountain scenery, with a distinctive beauty and holding a wealth of treasure for the botanist and explorer of historic ruins. In the midst of this wilderness lies Gregans Castle Hotel, at the foot of the Corkscrew Hill, with breathtaking views over the mystical Burren mountains and Galway Bay.
discover
Mayo
Ice House Hotel
There are many interesting walks ranging in difficulty, depending on how far you would like to go. The Ice House can provide you with all the information and equipment you need, so simply stroll on down to reception and get started.
discover
Kerry
Killarney Royal Townhouse
The beautiful Killarney National Park uses a self-guided nature trail which follows in the footsteps of the English agriculturist Arthur Young who visited Muckross in 1776. You start and finish the walk at Muckross House. The terrain is mainly level paths and roads. Walking in Killarney will bring you to see nature and unique wildlife wherever you go. 2007 saw the start of a reintroduction programme of the white-tailed sea eagle in Killarney. Today you can regularly see these eagles in the Killarney/Kerry area and beyond.
discover
Cork
Liss Ard Estate
Breathe in the fresh country air and take in the stunning scenery as you stroll by the glittering and ever-changing lake at Liss Ard Estate. Succumb to the breath-taking views over Lough Abisdealy. The woods are awash with golden light in the mornings as the sun rises! There are a whole host of exceptional walks, from short jaunts to longer leisurely strolls on the Estate and around the local townland.
discover
Limerick
No 1 Pery Square Townhouse & Spa
Overlooking the handsome, tree-lined Peoples Park in Limerick’s historic Georgian Quarter, No.1 Pery Square is a luxurious and intimate boutique townhouse. Situated just 5 min’s walk from the city centre & train/bus station.
discover
Kerry
Park Hotel Kenmare
Since 1897 many world travellers have enjoyed the pleasure of Park Hotel Kenmare and its renowned restaurant. Set in a heavenly location overlooking Kenmare Bay the hotel is in the heart of Ireland’s most scenic countryside.
discover
Cork
Perryville House
A trip to Kinsale is not complete without taking in one of the beautiful walking or running routes our town has to offer. You’ll enjoy unique vantage points of area that you may not otherwise see, from breathtaking coastal paths to superb views of the town, you won’t be disappointed by the various loops and trails on hand. Routes include the Scilly Walk, a stroll to Charles Fort or enjoy a guided walk around the town where you will not only get your steps in but also enjoy a rich education of the town’s history.
discover
Donegal
Rathmullan House
For many walkers, Donegal is second to none amongst Ireland’s generous collection of places to explore. Donegal’s mountains are quite modest in height but they offer the chance of some truly superb panoramas. Within an hour’s drive from Rathmullan House, the following walks are recommended Ards Forest Park, Ards Forest Park, Lough Salt Mountain, Melmore Head, Slieve Snaght…
discover
Galway
Rosleague Manor
The Connemara Loop is situated in breathtaking North West Connemara in County Galway. From Rosleague Manor, follow the Loop and be taken on a journey through an ever-changing landscape of majestic mountains, spectacular beaches, the wild Atlantic, mist covered lakes, pre-historic bogs and shady glens.
discover
Kerry
The Lansdowne Kenmare
Kerry is famed for its walks nearly as much as it is for its warm people, one of the most appealing aspects of walking in Kenmare is that there is a range of routes that you can follow without any guides, maps, or specialised equipment. The Lansdowne Kenmare welcome guests with a Heritage Trail Map of Kenmare. This walk is perfect for those who love to walk, explore , have nice stops for refreshments and just love walking in loafers! It can take an hour or two or more depending on stops and really brings the history of the town to life. The Kerry Way is deservedly Ireland’s most famous long distance walk as well as its longest. This 215km walking route loosely follows the route of the famous Ring of Kerry. Enjoy some of the most breath-taking sections of the walk from Kenmare. Climbing enthusiasts, Kenmare is close to the McGillycuddy Reeks, the highest peaks in Ireland. Unless you are experienced in the mountains and are used to reading maps, you should use an insured guide for ascending peaks such as Carrauntoohil. At 1,039 metres (3,414 feet), Carrauntoohil is a beacon for walkers, and with views from the summit extending up to 160km in fine weather, it is well worth the trek.
discover
Limerick
The Mustard Seed
Nestled in the heart of the Co. Limerick countryside is The Mustard Seed, a converted 19th-century convent. This celebrated and comfortable country house is set on ten acres of mature trees, herbaceous borders, orchard and kitchen garden.
