Stay at Sheen Falls Lodge this summer and expect to be spellbound by its Irish charm.
Ireland is a magical place. From the wailing banshees to the Leprechauns and the little people, legend is what this island is known for.
Yet, when the Celtic tiger began roaring in the late 90s and noughties, this was all but forgotten. No longer about finding a pokey little pub to drink Guinness with the locals and listen to traditional music, Ireland became synonymous with stag dos, crazy property prices and ubiquitous bars you could find anywhere in Britain.
While those areas are suffering with the recession now, there are other parts or Ireland that never strayed from their roots and continue flourishing today. One such place is Kenmare in Kerry, the south west of Ireland.
A town dating back to the eight century, you’ll fall in love with its narrow streets, charming little shops, friendly locals and the jewel in its crown, Sheen Falls Lodge, one of Ireland’s most renowned five-star hotels.
Set in what can only be described as an enchanted forest just minutes from Kenmare, the first thing you’ll notice on arrival is the view – waterfalls swishing downwards on one side and rolling hills rising up on the other. It’s a place you can’t fail but be spellbound by.
Inside, there are 66 bedrooms, split into rooms and suites of all shapes and balcony sizes, and even cottages on the grounds that families can rent.
Everything here is about helping you unwind. From the tranquil décor - cream walls, high ceilings, huge windows with panoramic views – to the hospitality which is a mix of Irish charm and impeccable Polish service.
By day, languish in the swimming pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi, or even opt for a massage or beauty treatment by the therapists on hand. Then get your trainers on and tackle a few of their famous walks, giving your lungs the freshest, cleanest air they’ve had in months.
By night, dine at La Cascade, their fine-dining restaurant which is modern cuisine with an Irish twist, like the salmon that’s smoked onsite and the delicious scallops caught locally each day. But before that, be sure to take a tour of their extensive wine cellar, one of the largest ones in Ireland, then let the sommelier help you make your choice (the house champagne is delicious!).
By check out, don’t be surprised to be feeling relaxed, renewed and ready to tackle the real world again. And that, unlike the Leprechauns and little people, is not a myth.
For more information or room rates, visit www.sheenfallslodge.ie or call 00 353 (0)64 41600. Fly London to Kerry with Ryanair, to Cork with Aerlingus and Waterford with Aer Arann.
