Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel

I'd like to recommend for your consideration a very charming and quaint hotel called the Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel and Restaurant in Doolin, Co. Clare, Ireland, that my husband and I have been visiting for 25 years. I think your readers would be very interested in knowing about this hotel/manor house, one which I consider to be a home away from home. The hospitality of the O'Callaghan family, who own the Ballinalacken, the beautiful surroundings and views, the wonderful breakfasts, gourmet dinners, peace and quiet, are the reasons we return so often. The location of the Ballinalacken is fabulous. Right on the coast, it sits up high and boasts magnificent views of the Atlantic, the Aran Islands and the local countryside. It's a spectacular setting and very peaceful. It would be very easy to sit and read a book in their drawing room taking in the quiet surroundings. There are so many spectacular driving tours you can do along the coast there, the magnificent Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Galway and cruises over to the Aran Islands from Doolin. If you need help with your itinerary or any suggestions for places to see, Declan, Denis and Cecelia are always helpful, pleasant and welcoming. They'll also give you a tour of the castle ruin right next door. Bedrooms at the Ballinalacken are very comfortable, very nicely furnished and some have beautiful views of the coast and over to the Aran Islands. It's so relaxing there, that sometimes you don't want to wake up in the morning! Meals at the Ballinalacken are delicious. At breakfast, everything is always so fresh. Starting with the continental, especially the fresh fruit, raisin scones, home made Irish brown bread by the wonderful Mary O'Callaghan, to the fabulous Irish breakfast, I don't think you can find a better one. It's a wonderful start to your day conversing with Cecelia and her staff. Dinner there is an absolute delight. We highly recommend staying there for a gourmet dinner. The chef, Michael, always has an interesting and creative menu. There's lamb, beef, fish and other choices on the menu, and it's always flavorful, perfectly cooked and beautifully presented. They have an extensive wine list. Desserts are gorgeous. Staff members are professional and pleasant, service is very good. You can enjoy a cocktail or soft drink in the bar before dinner or sit in the lobby with a glass of wine enjoying the ambiance and peace in front of the beautiful Connemara marble fireplace with peat fire. After dinner, if you're not too tired from the day's adventures, it's always pleasant to listen to some music in the bar or have a nice talk with Denis, the owner, over your favorite beverage or Irish Coffee! The town of Doolin, a short drive from the Ballinalacken, is famous for their traditional music. Your stay wouldn't be complete without visiting one of the pubs one night to hear the music of the area by highly accomplished musicians. Magnificent! It's always a pleasure to return. Regards, Chris and Rosie Mohn Brussels,Belgium/U.S.A. The Ballinalacken Castle Hotel is located in County Clare, Ireland, on coast road R477 approximately 3 miles from the town of Lisdoonvarna and 2 miles from Doolin.