Mount Cashel Lodge

Lawns run down to the lake, a path leads up to the woods; beyond is a garden for veg and a paddock with two donkeys. Pat and Annette so love this place that you cannot conceivably leave unconverted: the view raises your spirit, the peace restores your soul. The two pretty 18th-century stone lodges stand creeper-clung round a courtyard, the stables stand apart. Renovated with a light, sensitive hand, they feel unassuming and genuine, the interiors done in a straightforward modern country style for comfort and practicality: pine kitchens with all the bits, pretty iron beds with excellent bedding, proper armchairs before open fires, French doors to private terraces stretching out to the limpid lake and moorland. All you need, and more: barbecues, babysitting (book ahead), free broadband, satellite TV. The beautiful lakeside position, its paths, boats and rich fishing, are yours for the duration… Pat has built a jetty, provides safety equipment and is ever willing to guide and advise. Amazingly close to Shannon, Limerick, Ennis – and famous Dromoland Castle is just down the road.