Hotel review: This four-star retreat is a slice of coastal paradise in West Cork

10

Style & design

Think coastal elegance mixed with contemporary comfort, with a design reflecting its surroundings. The impressive lobby exudes a soothing, beach-inspired aesthetic, connecting the indoors with the wild beauty outside. Natural materials like wood, stone, linens, and sheepskin abound with unexpected pops of colour and fresh flowers. The artwork is exceptional, with pieces by renowned Kinsale furniture maker Joseph Walsh and paintings from Sherkin Island-based Majella O’Neill Collins, whose work has been purchased by George Clooney. The hotel is like a gallery, indeed we spot some pieces for sale.

Sensational wall-to-ceiling glass in the dining room, windows in the relaxation room, and sea view bedroom balconies capitalise on the views.

9

Service

Owned by Bandon native Des O’Dowd since 1998, the resort sits on the site of the original Inchydoney Ocean Hotel. Many staff are local and have been with O’Dowd since the beginning, and it shows. From the welcome drink — a delicious tipple of Co Cork’s Five Farms cream liqueur — to the greetings from every staff member, the service is among the best we’ve experienced; genuine, warm, and expert. Turndown service is excellent, with little chocolates on a cute seashell, with tomorrow’s weather report.

9

Guest rooms

The first thing we notice? The light. It draws us through to the private balcony, with its uninterrupted view of the Blue Flag beach below. A loveseat invites us to take it all in, before we even get a chance to settle in the room. The design is a blend of sophistication and seaside charm, with bang-on-trend panelling throughout. Twin beds dressed in crisp white linens deliver a restful sleep, the lull of the sea undoubtedly helping. The palette is soft hues of warm creams, sea-foam greens, and dusky blues. Thoughtful details — a cosy armchair by the window, a sleek writing desk and coastal artwork— add warmth and personality. The en suite has everything we need, with a rainforest shower and loads of space for our bits and pieces.

8

In-room perks

A personal Nespresso machine is made very good use of. There are fluffy robes, slippers, biscuits, and Elemis toiletries (though we’d prefer not to see single use bottles). The fridge includes complimentary water, and there’s a homemade petit four selection on a slate. Smart TV, and the papers are delivered, too.

8

On the menu

The Gulfstream Restaurant is quite an experience, with panoramic seascapes that elevate breakfast to something special. The aroma of Blue Butterfly coffee starts us off, with a brilliant buffet of warm pastries, homemade granola and breads, local honey and yogurts, and a DIY pancake station. Cooked-to-order dishes include the West Cork full Irish, with handmade Caherbeg sausages and Clonakilty pudding. Eggs are free-range Upton eggs and the morning’s catch is served with homemade brown soda bread.

Dinner here is just as impressive, fine dining with a focus on local. With over 60% of Irish artisan producers located in West Cork, the chef doesn’t waste the opportunity to showcase the best of the best. The stuffed monkfish is a showstopper, and the service is impeccable.

9

Activities & amenities

This was the country’s first seawater spa. We enjoy all the benefits of saltwater — without the chill. There’s a steam room, sauna, and a range of treatment features scattered throughout the pool. The spa offers excellent thalassotherapy treatments, and the relaxation space has a luxe beach vibe. Fresh fruit bowls, herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and wonderful staff make it a memorable afternoon. And complimentary yoga classes are a great way to start the day. Inchydoney surf school is on the doorstep, with whale watching and kayaking tours also on offer.

8

The bill

The Island Break includes two nights of bed and breakfast with dinner, from €620 for two people.

Our rating: 9/10

Room to improve? There are UHT milk pods in the room, but without being asked, the lady restocking suggests a jug of fresh milk from downstairs for our fridge, and then delivers it minutes later. There is a small wait for breakfast, not surprising as it’s peak time, but we are invited to wait in the adjoining library where there is tea, coffee, pastries, papers, and yet another sea view. A smooth touch.

Accessibility? Inchdyoney has two wheelchair accessible rooms.

EV chargers? Two in the carpark. Download the app to access during your stay.

Family-friendly? Very. With dedicated family rooms; buckets and spades, DVDs and books available to borrow; a well-stocked playroom, as well as that beach life right on the doorstep, kids will have a ball.

Dogs welcome? Service dogs only. However, the self-catering guest apartments adjacent to the hotel allow pets.

inchydoneyisland.com

The Hotel Examiner was a guest of Inchydoney Lodge & Spa.