One of Ireland's first seawater spa destinations, this famous hotel enjoys great views over the two ‘Blue Flag’ beaches at Inchydoney, which bring crowds to the area in summer, so many guests prefer it off-season.
Although architecturally uninspired, the building has mellowed as landscaping of the large carpark on the seaward side matures - and once inside the hotel, that pampered feeling soon takes over.
Dramatic artworks in the spacious foyer are impressive, and other public areas include a large, comfortably furnished first-floor residents’ lounge and library, with a piano, extensive sea views, and a soothing atmosphere.
Most of the generously sized bedrooms have sea views and all have been completely redesigned recently, so that they now have balconies in addition to air conditioning, safe and all the more usual amenities – and bold modern décor, with a good seasoning of bling which may noyt be to everyone's taste.
The exceptional health and leisure facilities make this a special destination for many returning guests; these include a superb Thalasso-therapy Spa, which offers a range of special treatments, and makes Inchydoney a particularly attractive off-season destination.
Special breaks are a major attraction - fishing, equestrian, golf, therapies and, more recently, kayaking - and the hotel has introduced some imaginative initiatives for families; kites are available for guests' use free of charge, for example, and picnics can be provided by arrangement. And, of course, the romantic location ensures its popularity for weddings.
Conferences/banqueting (300/250); secretarial services. Self-catering apartments available (with full use of hotel facilities). Thalassotherapy spa (24 treatment rooms); beauty salon; swimming pool; walking; snooker, pool table. Children welcome (under 3s free in parents' room, cots available, baby sitting arranged, play room).
Rooms 67 (3 suites, 1 junior suite,2 for disabled). Lift; 24 hr room service. B&B €75-115 pps, ss €50. Open all year except Christmas.
Gulfstream Restaurant:
Located on the first floor, with panoramic sea views from the window tables, this elegant restaurant offers fine dining in a broadly Mediterranean style. Adam Medcalf, who has been head chef since 2006, uses named fresh local produce, organic where possible, on seasonal menus that always include imaginative vegetarian options - and willingly caters for any other special dietary requirements. A special feature is the 7-course tasting menu, A Taste of West Cork, which is offered every night in the Gulfstream Restaurant and changes to reflect seasonal availability.
Lighter dishes for spa guests are also offered, with nutritional information outlined.
