Dolphin Beach House

On a sunny day there is nowhere more magical than Dolphin Beach House, set on its own 35-acre headland at the head of Clifden Bay. The views across the water to Slyne Head and Ballconneely Bay are the best that wild, untamed places can supply. Billy and Barbara tell me that their headland offers views of dolphins, seals, otters, foxes, and all kinds of seabirds. The view changes by the minute with the vagaries of the Irish weather and you can sit for hours just watching the seascape unfold. Warm weather finds guests soaking up the sun on the most private of beaches. The house was built to give views not only from the dining room and sitting room but also from several of the bedrooms—be sure to request one of these. I particularly enjoyed Bay View, and The Cove Room both tall-ceilinged room with wooden floors, king-sized beds, and French windows framing sea views. The Garden Room (no sea view) also enjoys high ceilings and its king bed faces a private garden courtyard. There is no shortage of places to eat in town—dinner is sometimes available with advanced notice. It’s very much a family operation and you may well find several of the Foyles’ working here.