Special Places to Stay - More than a bed for the night

This is a seriously lovely house and the chances are you’ll be tempted to hole up in rural bliss and do nothing at all, but in case you have the urge to venture forth, you’ll find some of Ireland’s most epic attractions on your doorstep: the mountains of the Burren rise behind, Galway Bay looms through the trees, the Cliffs of Moher are a short drive. As for the house, it sits on land owned by the descendants of Brian Boru, high king of Ireland a thousand years ago. Built from stone rescued from Hynes castle, it stands in four lawned acres. Inside, you discover the fruits of 20 years of renovation – smart interiors and the deep feel of home. There’s a peat fire in the sitting room, a sofa on the landing with watery views, a snug that opens onto the large garden and a stone terrace beyond the orchard. Bedrooms have a country-house feel with Laura Ashley fabrics and lovely bathrooms, while much of the art comes courtesy of Edward Hynes, who lived here for many years. There are good restaurants locally, but the kitchen is fully-loaded, so you’ll probably choose to stay put.