Cellar Tours Blog

The annual Georgina Campbell Awards are here for 2010! Discover fabulous places to dine and stay in Ireland…

The 2010 Award Winners are:

Hotel of the Year - The BrookLodge & Wells Spa – Macreddin, Co Wicklow

Restaurant of the Year – Campagne – Kilkenny

Chef of the Year – Eamonn O’Reilly – One Pico, Dublin

Pub of the Year – The Ballymore Inn, Ballymore Eustace, Co Kildare

Just Ask Restaurant of the Year Award Sponsored by Bord Bia- Rathmullan House - Rathmullan County Donegal

Natural Food Award- Good Things Cafe – Durrus, County Cork

Casual Dining Award -The Sheelin Tea Shop – Bellanaleck County Fermanagh

Taste of the Waterways Award 2010 Sponsored by Waterways Ireland
Cafe Merlot at Blakes of the Hollow – Enniskillen County Fermanagh

Host of the Year -Kay McEvilly – Cashel House Hotel - County Galway

Wine Award of the Year -Ballymaloe House - County Cork

Atmospheric Restaurant of the Year-Sha Roe Bistro – County Carlow

Hideaway of the Year -The Old Convent Gourmet Hideaway - County Tipperary

Country House of the Year -Gregans Castle – County Clare

Newcomer of the Year -An Port Mor – Westport Co Mayo

ROMANTIC IRISH CASTLES-

The green, misty, and alluring island of Ireland boasts a treasure trove of castles and here is our selection of our favorite castles in the Emerald Isle, many of which you can visit inside and one of which which is even a luxury hotel!

1. Lismore Castle

This stunning fairy tale castle is surprisingly not on the main tourist path in Ireland, and thanks for that. Located in the southeast of the country close to both Cork and Waterford, Lismore is absolutely one of the prettiest castles and gardens in Ireland, if not greater Europe.

More info

2. Ashford Castle

One of the most striking castles and grounds in Europe- and you can sleep here! Located in the west of the country in the atmospheric county Mayo, not far from where the Quiet Man was filmed.

More info

3. Kilkenny Castle

One of our favorite towns in Ireland is also home to one of its loveliest castles.

More info

4. Cahir Castle

Off the beaten track, this little secret corner of county Tipperary is delightful. There are some wonderful sights, restaurants, adorable B&Bs and heritage centers like the castle of Cahir here. Even if driving from Cork to Dublin, it´s worth a quick look and coffee, very picturesque.

More info

5. Ross Castle

Think “Excalibur” as this is the kind of epic setting where you can imagine the sword rising from the lake. The backdrop of the purple mountains, smattered with snow in winter is just gorgeous. You can take boats here at Ross castle out to the meeting of the waters, and this whole part of county Kerry has wonderful uplifting landscapes.

More info

6. Blarney Castle

The ultimate castle visit in Ireland. Yes, very touristy and the legend about kissing the Blarney stone sounds embellished, but the visit here is genuinely fascinating, and climbing to the roof top overlooking the delightful wooded grounds is a major highlight. Love it and a “must do” while in Cork.

More info

7. Classiebawn Castle

This striking castle is unfortunately privately owned (well, fortunate for the owners!) and not possible to visit, but if you happen to find yourself in the dreamy northwest of Ireland, this castle overlooking the village of Mullaghmore is worth seeking out to get a look at and a quick pic.

More info

8. Johnstown Castle

This handsome castle in country Wexford in the southeast of Ireland dates back to the 1800´s and sits amid splendid gardens and woodland. The castle cannot be visited but you can visit the gardens, complete with peacocks!

More info

9. Trim Castle

Anglo Norman castle located in a “heritage town” in County Meath, lovely.

More info

10. Bunratty Castle

Your first impression is that it might be a tourist trap as it is listed in virtually every tour guide there is. What a nice surprise to discover that it is actually a tastefully restored medieval castle complete with a sympathetically replicated traditional Irish village. Recommended! And located within arms reach of the wonderful Adare Manor and Dromoland castle hotels. They do fun medieval banquets for dinner, too.

More info

Do you have any tips for our readers on your favorite castle in Ireland?

Keeping things light:

Here are some of our suggestions for the weirdest and wackiest museums in Europe.

Enjoy this silly list, and feel free to send us your tips for weird museums or tourist attractions you have encountered while travelling in Europe-

1. Museum of Sewers, Paris

Info

2. Stockfish museum, Norway

Info

3. Phallus Museum in Iceland- seriously…

Info

4. Medieval Torture and Crime museum in San Gimignano, Italy

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5. The Fan Museum, England

Info

6. Moscow Cat Museum

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7. The German Leather Museum

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8. Bandit Museum, Ronda, Spain

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9. Witchcraft Museum, England

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10. Erotic Museum Amsterdam

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Are you thinking of popping the question and just can’t think of where to do it or how to make it special?

Do you want to organize the time of her life and cherish the memories of your proposal day forever?

Are you looking for a unique, incomparable, ultra romantic and creative wedding proposal idea?

Well, you have come to the right place! We are incorrigible romantics and have a few ideas that are sure to make her so impressed, she will say “yes”:

1). VERONA, ITALY- ROMEO & JULIET

Spend a night in one of the most romantic historic hotels in Italy- in the courtyard of Juliet’s house in Verona, booking the room “Il Cuore” at the magical “Il Sogno di Giulietta”, overlooking Juliet’s courtyard and balcony. In the morning, go out to your private terrace for a champagne breakfast where she will see a medieval style banner hanging from Juliet’s balcony, saying “Will you marry me?”. Below, a private serenade with local musicians will be the final coup de grace!

2). BARCELONA , SPAIN- JEEP RIDE THROUGH THE VINES & PICNIC

Your Mercedes will pick you up at your hotel in Barcelona and sweep you away to the Penedès wine country, about an hour south. Upon arrival to the wine estate, meet your charming hosts and hop into the jeep to tour the beautiful vineyards. Stop at a the 13th century hermitage on the property, at the hill´s summit and a romantic picnic will be set up for you. When the Cava bottle is popped, you can pop the question while looking out at the vast vineyards and Mediterranean sea in the distance. Follow with a private tour of the estate and celebrate with a glass of their excellent “Honeymoon”, an interesting single varietal wine, made with 100% Parellada, an aromatic Catalan grape.

3). DOURO VALLEY, PORTUGAL- WINE CRUISE

If you or your partner are port wine lovers, there is no better place to spend this special day than in the breathtaking Douro Valley. Stay at the luxury spa hotel Aquapura and about an hour before sunset take a private Rabelo cruise on the Douro River. These are replica Vintage boats traditionally used to carry the wine down the river from Douro to the lodges in Oporto. Sip chilled white port while taking in the views of the vineyards and colonial style Quintas. On one of them, a banner with “WILL YOU MARRY ME?” will be displayed when the boat passes by. When you get back to the hotel, rose petals will have been spread around your hotel room, and a bottle of bubbly awaits…

4). MADRID, SPAIN- WINE, ART AND ROMANCE

For art and wine lovers, Madrid is an interesting destination. Begin the morning with a private guided tour of the outstanding Prado museum with a focus on wine throughout the ages and in art.  To follow, enjoy a supremely entertaining private wine tasting masterclass in a 19th century refined building with exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable hosts. Among the bottles lined on the table, one will have a custom made label saying  “Will you marry me?” Your celebratory toast will be with the stunning Krpta cava.

5). VENICE, ITALY-PRIVATE COOK´S TOUR AND SUNSET GONDOLA

No woman can resist a man who cooks. So, why not organize a market tour and a private cooking class for the two of you as part of your vacation in Italy. Venice is the ultimate romantic destination and you can spend a day taking in a Rialto market tour with gourmet tastings and learn how to cook the perfect Italian meal!  After the lunch with your private and charming chef, tasting your own creations, you will get a diploma. On your girlfriend’s one, it will read “Will you marry me?. Finish this unforgettable day with a gondola ride at sunset with bubbles on board!

6). TUSCANY, ITALY- HOT AIR BALLOON AT SUNRISE

As a day excursion from Florence to Siena, head to the Chianti wine country at dawn and watch the spectacular colors of the early morning over the olive groves and medieval villages as you float over this fairy tale land on your own private hot air balloon. When your champagne toast is served on board,  a note will accompany the tray saying “Say yes and let´s have a reason to celebrate, marry me!” When you land, your driver will be waiting and you´ll spend a day in the wine country including an incredible Michelin starred lunch in a 14th century hamlet.

7). BORDEAUX, FRANCE- SUNSET PROPOSAL AT TOP CHATEAU

Spend a night at a gorgeous Chateau in Bordeaux´s left bank on the “Chateaux Route”, taking in a private dinner in the historic dining room. At sunset, go for a walk on the manicured grounds, and as you are served your aperitif by elegant waiter, the box for the ring will be presented with the wine along with a single rose. Voilà, the perfect moment to propose.

8). CHAMPAGNE, FRANCE-TOAST IN THE BIRTHPLACE OF THE WORLD´S BEST BUBBLY

Take a day tour to Champagne from Paris. After a morning of wine tasting, enjoy a gourmet aphrodisiac´s lunch on a private terrace facing the vineyards. Your waiter will be working with you on this, now when you select the wine, he will come back with a magnum bottle of champagne. On it your fiancée´s name will be painted on it, along with the message of your choice. A variation of the champagne theme can be a private “sabrage” in a champagne cave like at the beautiful Pommery cellar, where you will have the perfect private moment to propose.

9). PRIORAT, SPAIN- HELICOPTER WEDDING PROPOSAL AND WINE TASTING

If money is no object and you want to have the experience of a lifetime, spend a day visiting a top Priorat vineyard Costers del Siurana by private helicopter from Barcelona. When you arrive to the wine estate the owner himself will board the helicopter with you and you´ll get expert commentary on this gorgeous region with its terraced vineyards from the air. Land again and cruise the vineyards by landrover before carrying on to a vertical tasting of top vintages at the winery. An 8 course gourmet feast is next, each course paired with estate wines. When things can´t get any better, the dessert will be presented, with the ring inside the tart. Absolutely fantastic way to propose.

10). ROSS CASTLE, IRELAND- PRIVATE BOAT AND PROPOSAL IN MYSTICAL LAKE

Your driver and vintage Rolls Royce will collect you at your hotel in Ireland´s Kerry or Cork regions and you´ll travel through idyllic landscapes to the ethereal Killarney lakes. Board a private boat at Ross Castle, and once you have sailed tot he middle of the lake, your gourmet picnic basket will be presented. Smoked organic salmon, artisan Irish cheeses, homemade Gubbeen oatcakes and of course a chilled bottle of champagne will be included. Present your lover with an Irish Claddagh ring as the engagement ring…

More great ideas of how to pop the question:

* Treasure Hunt in a Castle

* Horsedrawn Carriage Proposal

* Horseback riding at sunset through the vineyards

* Private dinner in a vineyard

* Venetian Carnival and Masquerade Dance Proposal

More info: Cellar Tours offer fabulous custom designed marriage proposal tours

Do you love all things food, wine and travel? Are you a wine expert, culinary whiz or geography nerd like us? Every month you can test your knowledge on our fun new quiz, check it out here:

Work those little brain cells and see if you can guess things like :

* Where is the Txakoli wine region located?

* Where is the birthplace of Pesto?

* What is the most expensive Italian ham?

* Which European country consumes the highest amount of fish and seafood?

* Which Northern Italian celebrity winemaker is famous for using Roman Amphora now?

* and many more, 10 each month to be precise!

By playing the quiz you are entered into a monthly contest to wine a prize, as well as an annual grand prize, it pays to play

Galway Oyster Festival, September 24-27, 2009- The mythical Galway Oyster Festival takes place on the west coast of Ireland in the atmospheric and “wild” region of Connemara. This festival has been taking place annually in Galway  for over 50 years and features plenty of oysters, Guinness (the classic pairing) and Irish “craic” (fun and warm spirit). The city comes alive with the influx of visitors (the event attracts over 10,000 local and international guests on average, who consume over 100, 000 oysters over the course of the festival!).  This festival also features jazz bands, gala dinners and champagne & oysters VIP events.

Where to stay: We love the G Hotel with its contemporary design and FABULOUS spa (a “must” on a grey day).

Where to eat: Oyster lovers head out of Galway to the quaint 300 year old Moran’s Oyster Cottage (which attracts locals and celebrities alike, from Woody Allen to Pierce Brosnan). In Galway itself, our top choice is Oscar´s.

VIP Touring: Cellar Tours offer gourmet private tours in Galway with private chauffeured Mercedes, visits to artisan smoke houses in Connemara, private cooking classes and unique luxurious experiences.

Connemara Mussels Festival, May 1-4, 2009- also in Connemara, the Killary Mussels are celebrated in Letterfrack (County Galway), in this new seafood festival. This year´s activities include mussels cooking competitions, children´s treasure hunts, Irish music and of course plenty of great local stouts.

Baltimore Seafood Festival, May 22-24, 2009- This absolutely darling little coastal village in West Cork holds an annual seafood festival called “A taste of Baltimore”, in association with the Baltimore Wooden Boat festival (a vintage sailing fest). This year there will be dozens of local food artisans serving up stunningly fresh seafood from West Cork- crab, oysters, mussels, prawns and more; handmade local cheeses (West Cork is famous for its artisan cheese producers); and smoked salmon. There will be fun events to accompany the great food and live Irish music, like a harbor race, vintage regatta and kids crab fishing competition.

Where to stay: In West Cork, one of our favorite “hotels” is the elegant Bantry House in the lovely seaside village of Bantry (on extensive grounds with historic gardens and sea views).

Where to eat: The possibilities are endless in West Cork, but if pushed to make a few recommendations they would include: Good Things Cafe in Durrus, Island Cottage on the Heir Island, and  Casino House in Kilbrittain. For charming pub ambiance, don´t miss “The Algiers” in Baltimore itself.

VIP Touring: Cellar Tours offer spectacular gourmet private tours throughout Baltimore and West Cork.

Taste of Dublin, June 11-14, 2009- The “Taste” festivals are relatively new and have been a roaring success. The Taste of Dublin festival is set in the romantic Iveagh gardens, with four days of cooking demos (by Michelin starred chefs, tv chefs and emerging culinary stars) and various seafood tasting opportunities.

Where to stay: Our top choices are the Dylan for design and style and the Merrion for old world charm.

Where to eat: Don´t miss Chapter One and L´Ecrivain!!

Taste of Cork, June 25-27, 2010- the Cork version of this fabulous food festival, Taste of Cork, will be held next year. This is the gourmet epicenter of Ireland and you can expect fresh seafood, artisan cheeses and tantalizing smoked and cured meats and fish. Check out a video from last year´s Taste of Cork:

Where to stay: Hayfield Manor is a relaxing and elegant place to stay in Cork city, our preferred choice when you want to be near the center of Cork.

Where to eat: “Must do” restaurants include the mythical Cafe Paradiso, the much loved “Les Gourmandises” and of course in nearby Kinsale, the Fishy Fishy cafe.

A Taste of West Cork, Skibbereen, September 16-21- the 2009 calendar is not live yet, so keep your eyes peeled on their web. This festival is a must for local foodies and features the creme de la creme of Irish culinary personalities, emerging chefs and boutique producers. Skibbereen is located in West Cork, see travel tips above under the Baltimore Seafood festival.

Hillsborough International Oyster Festival, September 4-6- Northern Ireland is embracing “foodie-ism”, with a culinary renaissance taking place. The north is home to many food festivals including the Hillsborough International Oyster Festival (founded 15 years ago). The nice thing about this event is apart from all of the entertainment (from gala balls, Canadian boat racing, and oyster eating competitions), the purpose is for charity (last year´s proceeds went to Action Cancer). The historic town where this festival takes place is located in County Down, travel info here.

We had high expectations for the Irish artisan suppliers we had researched for our new tours, based on what we have been hearing over the last year in the gastro press and word of mouth and after the inspection visits we are delighted to say this summer has been a roaring success in terms of finding enthusiastic suppliers and entrepreneurial food producers. Our new tours will be online as soon as we create the new itineraries with our new cheese producers, chefs, smokehouses, luxury hotels, limo drivers and entertaining guides! Why are we so excited? Some info on what’s happening in the foodie scene in Ireland:

GOOD FOOD IRELAND

We were put in touch with this fantastic non profit organization, Good Food Ireland, through the managing director of the superb Merrion Hotel in Dublin (also included in our new tours) and met the director Margaret Jeffares in her beautiful home near Wexford to talk about the association. Over fresh scones and coffee Margaret passionately told us talked about some of the producers in her association and their dedication to preserve and promote Irish small scale and high quality food production.  GFI says ” The Good Food Ireland ethos is to prioritize the core indigenous ingredients of Irish cuisine and promote local and artisan food producers. ” Members include famous Michelin starred chefs like Derry Clarke (L’ Ecrivain, Dublin); the organic Apple Farm in Cahir; superb Irish farmhouse cheese producers like Gubbeen,  Knockanore and Ardrahan; Smokehouses like the Burren Smokehouse in a gorgeous part of County Clare and the Connemara Smokehouse in the wild west; artisan butchers like McGeough´s in pretty Oughterard and Jack McCarthy in Kanturk (Cork).

We visited one of GFI´s most dedicated members, the Arlington Lodge, run by the very charming owner Maurice Keller and had our first fantastic lunch of the gourmet inspection- homemade game paté, St Tola Goat’s Cheese Bruschetta with red onion marmalade, local Atlantic crab claws (in photo above), corn fed Irish chicken…. delicious. Maurice passionately explained his belief about about using all local ultra high quality produce to try and fight the wave of cheap food imports to Ireland (tough and inferior chicken and tasteless frozen fish- mainly from around Asia). The Arlington is a pretty little historic Georgian house with period style furniture, and fabulous food indeed, highly recommended. We are putting together a ten day gourmet itinerary in Ireland for our foodie clients featuring Good Food Ireland members (many luxury hotels, high end restaurants and charming Irish country hotels are also members!), so keep an eye out on our website for this.

SLOW FOOD IN IRELAND

You might be surprised to discover that Ireland has one of the most active and exciting Slow Food chapters in Europe, much more so even than France or Spain. Celebrity foodie Clodagh McKenna (whose Irish Farmers Market Cook Book is highly recommended!) writes this in the Slow Food Ireland guide´s foreword, “For anyone with even a passing interest in food, Ireland has become an extremely interesting place to live or visit. Of all the many developments, two are particularly thrilling. The first is the emergence of the producer as hero. Suddenly farmers, fisherman, growers and artisans are being recognized and rewarded for the skill and care they devote to their chosen work. The second is the rapid expansion of farmer´s markets and specialist food shops. Crucially, the sense of connection between producer and consumer, which was under threat, is growing stronger”.

Slow Food Ireland´s members include many small producers like the Biddy Early Brewery (Ireland´s first microbrewery), excellent bakers like Arbutus Bread, air dried hams such as Krawczyk´s West Cork Salamis (West Cork, by the way is gourmet paradise with the highest concentration of gourmet producers, also stunning scenery) and then of course the gourmet goddesses Giana Ferguson of Gubbeen and Darina Allen of Ballymaloe (who head the local Slow Food chapters of West Cork and East Cork respectively).  This month, Slow Food organized the first Terra Madre gourmet extravaganza event in Ireland, in the Norman town of Waterford. It brought together foodies, journalists, consumers, and showcased the creme de la creme of Irish food producers. Various conferences were held on sustainability of food production, ethics questions, genetic modification, etc. From all accounts, the event was a roaring success and definitely was a chance to discuss the trends, controversies and predictions for the future of Ireland´s food scene.

ARTISAN CHEESE PRODUCERS

We visited some fantastic dedicated cheese producers, hardworking and exceptionally charming people who are very open to the idea of gourmet tourism. Highlights included Gubbeen and Durrus and there are still many, many more producers to visit!

Gubbeen- The Ferguson family are culinary pioneers in Ireland and over the last decade have gained international fame for their cheeses and more recently for their smokehouse products, but the history of the farm goes back much longer, for five generations! Husband Tom is proud of of their “cheesemaker´s herd” of British Friesan, Simmenthal, Jersey and Shorthorn, as well as the indigenous Kerry Cow.  Wife Giana began making cheese at this gorgeous West Cork farm back in the late ´70´s, and has cultivated the Gubbeen brand over the decades. The estate makes the flagship Gubbeen cheese (semi soft with creamy and nutty flavors), and a smoked Gubbeen which son Fingal smokes in the onsite smokehouse. Fingal also makes a range of exquisite smoked salamis, hams, bacon and sausages (no ordinary sausages!), many flavored with herbs that daughter Clovisse grows in her onsite herb garden(photo below). A large portion of the Gubbeen products are sold at local farmers markets around West Cork and Cork city, such as the fantastic market in their own village of Schull (a pretty fishing hamlet on the coast).

Durrus- Located in the same-named pretty hamlet in a breathtakingly beautiful corner of West Cork, we visited Jeffa Gill´s small, pretty estate. This award winning cheese (now sold at the famed Murrays Cheese Shop in New York) is made from a local herd which grazes on the Sheep´s Head Peninsula, and is made using all traditional methods.  Durrus is so famous on the international foodie scene that they have had French students come to doing a “stage”  and annually host a group from Slow Food in Italy who come to picnic in their peaceful garden (in photo below) on their delicious cheese. Jeffa, along with Giana of Gubbeen, is keenly involved with Slow Food activities and is a member of the Irish Farmhouse Cheese Association. Just a few minutes down the road is the fabulous Good Things Cafe, one of this areas gastro gems. The drive here from Gubbeen (in Schull) has to be one of the loveliest drives in Ireland!

ARTISAN SMOKEHOUSES

Ireland is home to a small select group of master smokers and it seems that the gourmet press is catching on fast.  Smoked Salmon has long been a prized commodity in Ireland and these days, top producers are branching out into smoked cheese, smoked chicken, even smoked eels!  We had the pleasure to visit some of the best Irish smokehouses and some top picks in county Cork include:

Belvelly – Located near Cobh (the Titanic’s last stop), this tiny smokehouse is run by the effervescent Frank Hederman and his lovely wife Caroline (who co-wrote the “Good Food in Cork” guide along with Ireland´s cherished culinary granny Myrtle Allen. We visited on a gusty morning right before the salmon had been delivered and saw the cheeses being smoked. Frank is a real character, well known in all the local markets and the Irish and British gourmet press. He told us all about the history of the business and showed us around.  Belvelly is Ireland´s oldest traditional smokehouse and the salmon, mackerel, and (mythical) mussels that he smokes are cured with organic English salt and hang-smoked using beech wood. Caroline is starting up a gourmet shop on their property to showcase their own products, naturally, but also ancillary products like home smokers, sea salt, and gourmet goods from Ireland. We had some great ideas with Caroline for our tours, keep your eyes peeled.

Ummera- Owned and run by the softspoken and very charming Anthony Creswell, Ummera makes one of the most tantalizing delicacies I have ever tasted- smoked chicken. Sounds simple, right? You could almost mistake it for “roast chicken”, but no- smoked chicken is out of this world. Words cannot describe the chicken bliss….. Luckily Anthony sells and ships abroad, so try it for yourself! Not many smokers are actually licensed for both meat and fish, and as Ireland is ultra (some say even overly) cautious about food hygiene, Anthony had a tough time getting all the papers in order to be able to smoke his famous chickens on this beautiful estate in Timoleague (known for its dramatic 13th century Abbey in the photo below, and for another local foodie producer, “Mella´s Fudge”). The smokehouse is tiny, as they all are, and after a short tour of the production facility we went for a walk (me in high heels!) along the river on his sprawling estate. Anthony worked in the wine business for years, and only in his later life decided to go into his father´s line of work- master smoker. The quality of their products is top class. The dry cured bacon, organic farmed salmon from county Clare and of course that smoked crown of chicken- simple and mouth watering! Ummera also looks after a very interesting blog with plenty of news on their own business as well as other foodie news in Ireland.

When you think of Ireland you think of castles, stately manor homes, cozy Irish hotels with masculine hunting decor and a roaring fire…. you don’t normally think of crazy Alice in Wonderland decor or lamps shaped like designer hats! Well, this summer’s research trips here in Ireland have blown away some of the stereotypes we had about luxury hotels in Ireland. And we are excited to include these two new hotels located on opposite sides of the country:

G Hotel, Galway

Located just outside the city center of this midsize Irish city known for its arts festival, the fairly generic and bland glass facade (the outside kind of looks like a car dealership!), disguises the truly FABULOUS interior of the G. This hotel is very special and you won’t want to leave. Once you enter you could spend the whole day inside, just in their award winning spa (a must if its a drab, gray day). The hotel was designed by famed couture hat designer Philip Treacy (based in London but originally from Galway) and is a treat on the eye. There are various salons and color schemes, a restaurant with a Michelin starred consulting chef Stefan Matz (who also looks after stunning sister hotel the beautiful Ashford Castle in Mayo county further north), a sumptuous Spa (products are Espa and all spa staff train in London at headquarters for Espa). Our favorite room at The G is without a doubt their outrageous Linda Evangelista Suite (Philip Treacy has dedicated this room to his top model friend), over 1500 square feet with a roofed in terrace overlooking the lough. A faux zebra trophy looks onto a sumptuously designed room, and the bathtub is a specimen of design in itself. G Hotel web

Dylan Hotel, Dublin

Located just over the Baggot street bridge, and steps from one of our favorite restaurants in Ireland, Michelin starred L’ Ecrivain, the beautiful Dylan hotel boats both a stunning interior (completely modern and designer) and a wonderful historic facade (it’s located in the converted royal hospital’s nurse’s home) . While many design hotels are minimalist and can be quite cold, the Dylan is full of luscious rich colors (eggplant, burgundy, silver and gold, etc) and textures (crushed velvet, silk, etc). Rooms are just wonderful with supremely comfortable beds, a range of high end bath products in the bathroom, lots of small touches like lighting around the bed so you don’t trip on the way to the bathroom at night, fresh flowers, CDs in the room, etc. The staff are top class and the candlelit terrace bar and indoor cocktail bar are simply THE place to meet in Dublin. Definitely one of the best hotels we have found lately and can’t wait to send you here! Dylan Hotel web

For the last few weeks we have been on the road, burning rubber across the island to find luxurious country retreats and historic hotels. We visited all kinds of wonderful places from Design Hotels (see our favorite designer hotels here), Country Guest Houses, Manor Homes and Palatial Estates and of course, some Irish castles!

Here is a list of our top picks which we will be including in our new private chauffeured gourmet tours in Ireland.

BEST MANOR HOTEL-ADARE MANOR

Adare Manor is one of the most stunning properties we have see in Europe! Built in the early 1800’s for the 2nd Earl of Dunraven and his wife, Lady Caroline Wyndham, it is a beautiful Victorian Gothic mansion (plenty of bay windows, gargoyles, etc) with a few quirks (for example there are 52 chimneys- one for every week of the year). The ivy clad manor rests in an absolutely gorgeous estate of more than 800 acres of manicured gardens (with a beautiful Cedar of Lebanon), parkland and a river flowing around the hotel. Brown trout can even be fished year round on site, Adare Manor has a private gillie for guests. Adare Manor is also known by golfers for its 18 Hole Championship Golf Course (which regularly hosts the Irish Open) designed by the mythical Robert Trent Jones Senior. Their Manor Oakroom Restaurant run by head chef Mark Donahue is high end traditional cuisine with a discreet creative twist. When we visited this past weekend dishes on the tasting menu included Roast Atlantic Scallops with a thermidore glaze of endives and red onions; roast quail and crisp air-dried Irish pork; and roast breast of Guinea Fowl filled with foie gras mousse. The atmosphere in the dining room is romantic with its original oak panels, high ceilings, and flickering candles. Adare Manor web

BEST CASTLE HOTEL- DROMOLAND CASTLE

Our expectations were not extremely high, as while visiting other properties we had found that many castle hotels live off their name, similar to some of the Paradors in Spain, and rooms tended to be dated and tired. What a surprise when we arrived! Not all hotels have a history dating back to the 11th century and can claim to be the ancestral home of one of the few Royal Gaelic families (Brian Boru, the High King of Ireland). The list of famous guests is long and distinguished including the last few American presidents and a host of celebrities. This gorgeous property is located in the west of Ireland, about an hour south of Galway and two hours northwest of Cork, and a few minutes drive from Shannon airport. It stretches out over 400 acres of lush parkland with a soft rolling golf course (JB Carr & Ron Kirby), sparkling lake (complete with ducks) and beautiful tree lined paths. High Tea is served from 3-5PM in elegant salons that wind around the first floor of the castle. We loved the Earl of Thomond dining room, very atmospheric and pretty and serving haute Irish cuisine (think Roast Monkfish with black pudding risotto and langoustine & asparagus salad). The latest novelty at Dromoland is a fabulous spa, using the Irish – Voya- line of products whose products are made with an organic seaweed base. Treatments could include a – Tangle Me Up- seaweed body wrap for example. Love this place. Dromoland Castle web

BEST GARDENS- BANTRY HOUSE

Wow, location location location. Mama mia, this hotel (really a luxurious B&B) is set in an absolutely idyllic spot. Located in cute Bantry in West Cork, you drive in from the coast about a kilometer through thick woodland before arriving to the Bantry House, surrounded by luxuriant gardens. We arrived late and the gracious owner himself welcomed us. We later found out that Mr. White is the actual descendant of the original owners who had the mansion built in the 1700’s! Our very pretty room faced the formal gardens and had the most comfortable bed I have slept in I think in years! There is an old fashioned billiards room with an honor bar and all kinds of games from scrabble to Mahjong, and an adjoining salon with cozy fire. Gin Tonics beside the fire after a walk in the gardens are a must. We had an informal dinner at their little cafe style bistro but for finer dining head to O’Connors (fine seafood restaurant). The Bantry House, while not ultra luxurious, is one of the most unique places we have stayed, and the views from the gardens over the bay are simply priceless. Bantry House web

BEST LUXURY HISTORIC HOTEL WITH SPA- THE PARK, KENMARE

Kenmare is one of the cutest little gourmet villages of southern Ireland and is located in the southwest in the Kerry region. And the much loved Park Hotel is still gorgeous, run by some of the best hospitality professionals we have had the pleasure of meeting. This Victorian landmark hotel faces the Kenmare Bay and houses what is considered to be one of the best spas in Ireland if not Europe. The Samas spa is a real experience and is part of the Park experience. Some of the Samas rituals include a basalt hot stone therapy and the 2 hour ladies ritual (with deep facial cleansing and hypnotic acupressure massage). The beautiful and peaceful location of The Park in this beautiful corner of Kerry, lends itself to a stay focused on relaxation and indeed many guests enjoy simple pleasures like yoga and jogging, followed by cocktails and fine dining in their delicious formal dining room, or head to Kenmare to local gems like Packies.

Park Hotel Kenmare web

BEST LUXURY HOTEL FOR FISHING- SHEEN FALLS, KENMARE

Also in Kenmare is the extremely comfortable Sheen Falls Lodge property, which we also loved for its dramatic riverside location, services, and superb staff. The Danish owners revamped a historic hunting lodge dating back to the 1600’s, although most of the hotel is (tastefully) new. This pampering hotel is a member of Relais & Chateaux, and understands luxury and how to spoil its guests. The hotel will organize a champagne picnic served by the lake after a scenic drive in a vintage Buick dating to the 1930’s for example. Or for our wine loving clients, a private wine tasting in their impressive cellar with their knowledgeable and friendly sommelier. The suites here are great and overlook the cascading waterfalls, and they have thought of everything. A major focus at the Sheen Falls is on fishing and they are very proud of their private gillie who will also act as private river guide. Sheen Falls Lodge web

BEST COUNTRY HIDEAWAY- CARRIG HOUSE

We had the best dinner I think we have had in over a year here at this adorable tiny country house on Caragh Lake in Kerry. Simple dishes like baby lamb chops and roast turbot were cooked to perfection and out of this world!!! This converted 19th century hunting lodge is located in a hidden corner of tiny Caragh Lake near the Ring of Kerry and is very romantic and cozy. While we stayed here in summer, it would be great to go back in winter and just relax in front of the fire and enjoy long walks and gorgeous dinners with brandies to follow in the front salon. The room to go for is definitely their presidential suite with views opening onto the lake, and a delicious bed they personally brought over from India. Carrig House web

ANOTHER GREAT COUNTRY HOUSE FOR DINING- BALLYMALOE HOUSE

The Allen family are the most famous culinary family in Ireland. Darina Allen is the Julia Childs of Ireland and Rachel is a celebrity TV chef- both sell bucket loads of cookbooks and of course they offer those world famous cooking demonstrations and professional classes nearby at their organic farm and cookery school. The house is where foodies can overnight (decor is simple country chic) and above all, eat! The beautiful dining room is most atmospheric at night with a roaring fire, and the food here is all sourced locally (much of it from their own farm) and daily. We enjoyed an excellent lunch here just a few days ago, and can definitely sing their praises. We tried mackerel fished from Ballycotton (a few miles down the road), tender organic steak and free range organic chicken (both from their own farm) in a delicate tarragon sauce- simple and very, very good. We look forward to sending you here and to our other favorite corners of Ireland! Ballymaloe House web

Wine Tours in Ireland? Not exactly! And Ireland may not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of a gourmet vacation. However we have noticed a massive shift towards food awareness and artisan production (cheese, smokehouses, rare whiskeys, etc) in Ireland in the last few years (Des is Irish and we visit Ireland regularly). One of Slow Food’s most active chapters is Ireland, farmers markets have been rejuvenated in many towns, gourmet festivals are sprouting up like mushrooms and cooking classes are all the rage. Pair all of this with huge investments for renovations of historic manor homes and hotels taking place throughout Ireland and it didn’t take us long to decide that Ireland could be a very interesting location for our food and wine loving clients.

So here we are, in Cork, Ireland for the summer, doing research trips for the best part of 6 weeks to visit whiskey distilleries, famous and up and coming restaurants, castles, and new stylish boutique hotels, tidy towns and fishing villages to find the creme de la creme suppliers for our new tours. Keep an eye out for our site inspection notes which will be posted throughout the summer! Oh, and we did actually here rumors of wine being made somewhere near Kinsale, more on that later….