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The Best Mid-Range Hotels
Moy House (County Clare; tel. 065/708-2800; www.moyhouse.com): This unusual 19th-century tower house atop a hill overlooking the sea is beautiful inside and out. Rooms have comfortable, modern beds covered in crisp Irish linens, and are decorated with original paintings and period antiques. Bathrooms are beautifully designed to combine modern conveniences with the building's old architecture (a glass panel in one room provides a look down into an old well). Downstairs, the small, attractive dining room serves up excellent food and has a sea view. It's a snug, warm, friendly place to visit.
Temple House (County Sligo; tel. 071/918-3329; www.templehouse.ie): Roderick and Helena Perceval's grand Victorian manor house is an extraordinary place where ceilings soar to the stratosphere, marble stays solidly underfoot, and the family's working farm stretches out for miles around you. A Templar castle lies in ruins on the banks of their lake, well stocked with fish. To spend a few days here is to experience a different world.
The Bastion (County Westmeath; tel. 090/649-4954; www.thebastion.net): This simple and peaceful guesthouse in the heart of colorful Athlone is a find. Run by brothers Vinny and Anthony McCay, it has a minimalist approach, with clean white walls and crisp white linens contrasted with dark polished wood. The big, rambling house is comfortable, friendly, and perfectly located for touring Athlone or as a base for exploring the surrounding countryside.
Bruckless House (County Donegal; tel. 074/973-7071): This mid-18th-century farmhouse, restored with impeccable taste, has many charms, including award-winning gardens and a stable of Connemara ponies. Spacious, welcoming, and comfortable, Bruckless House feels like home (or better) after only a very short time.
Rathmullan House (County Donegal; tel. 800/223-6510 in the U.S., or 074/915-8188 in Ireland; www.rathmullanhouse.com): This getaway lies at the end of a long private drive on the banks of the mirrorlike waters of Lough Swilly. Rooms are big and beautifully detailed, with a soft color scheme, claw-foot tubs, and private patios. There are half a dozen drawing rooms in which you can relax on big leather sofas by open fires. The staff is friendly and open, and the atmosphere is one of pure rural rest and relaxation.
The Bervie (County Mayo; tel. 098/43114; www.bervieachill.com): Views really don't get any better than this -- right at the edge of the sea, overlooking the cliffs across the bay. This cozy retreat is an ideal place to stay for those exploring Ireland's wild west coast. Owners Elizabeth and John Barrett are charming hosts who greet you with fresh scones and will cook you a delightful dinner if you wish. The house is a former Coast Guard station -- as solid as a rock, and as comforting as a security blanket. This is one of our favorite places in Ireland.
Ross Castle and House (County Cavan; tel. 043/81286 castle, or 049/854-0218 house): A tower room in a centrally heated, haunted castle awaits you at Ross Castle. It won't take too big a bite out of your wallet, either. It might not be elegant, but it is unquestionably memorable. Warm, comfortable Ross Castle and nearby Ross House are great places to relax beside Lough Sheelin, a noteworthy source of trout and pike.
Slieve Croob Inn (County Down; tel. 028/4377-1412): Whether you want to drop anchor and set up a home away from home in a self-catering cottage or just spend a night in a stunning landscape, you'll adore this tasteful hideaway in the magical Mournes.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
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