Tour Host Pick of the Month

Renvyle House Hotel

by Sheri Leigh

Renvyle House, is without a doubt the most comfortable and comforting hotel I have ever visited. Turf fires lit the common areas; the long narrow sitting room, solarium, cozy reception and of course, the bar, warming the body and the soul with the welcome only a fine country house can offer. Situated seemingly at the end of the world, this delightful resort surrounded by ocean, rivers and forest, on the wilds of the Connemara coast has offered 150 years of hospitality to weary travelers and the well-healed alike.

The staff is a delight, and the patrons anxious to make conservation ensuring a friendly and charming stay. Awash with activities, you can keep on the go your whole stay or relax with a book. Renvyle House is a haven of respite in a busy world. Old time charm and luxury envelope your every action. Rooms are comfortable and spacious, every room with a fabulous view and luxurious bath. Suites even have a sitting room and their own fireplaces, complete with Jacuzzi baths and extra large showers.

But the real star is the restaurant, or more accurately the Chef! Tim O'Sullivan, Head Chef for over 20 years, creates masterpieces each evening from the freshest Connemara lamb, Irish beef and fish straight from the shore. Combined with world class wines and the best desserts, the evening meal is an affair not to be missed. No matter how many nights you stay at the hotel— and be warned one is definitely not enough, the menu changes everyday so you need not ever venture off the immaculately maintained grounds.

My only disappointment was I only had one night! My next trip to Ireland will include another stay, this time long enough to curl up by the fire and read one of Ireland's (four!) Nobel winning authors.

By Sheri Leigh