Home and Away 4th May

Weekend Hotspot

For many tourists to Ireland the Ring of Kerry journey instills their image of Ireland and very often as natives we tend to forget its true aura. The scenery, coastline towns and villages are all spectacular and I once heard it said that the landscape varies a hundred times in 100 km such is its diversity. Even in recessionary times the Ring of Kerry drive is crowded and you may find yourself behind a convoy of tour buses at almost anytime of the day so a visit in off peak is my advice. Most of the tourists who drive themselves prefer to drive the same route in a clockwise direction to avoid the crowds. Sneem is a colourful little village that has an "artsy" orientation and is one of the most popular stops on the ring. You will find several galleries here, as well as sculptures and the town is a popular family holiday destination. There are a variety of safe beaches in the area and the surroundings attract adventure sports enthusiasts. `The village is also home to a sculpture park featuring international works by a variety of artists, a Geo-Park exploring local geology, a sensory garden and riverside wildlife trail. Nearby Parknasilla an indulgent Victorian hotel has been reinvented for the modern era, with a magnificent new spa overlooking Kenmare Bay. This historic hotel is set in 500 acres of rolling green countryside, surrounded by subtropical vegetation, mountainous backdrops and tranquil Atlantic sea views. Best of all is Parknasilla’s attitude to children if you have a large family to consider, In fact they are perceived as guests of the future and catered for accordingly with special menus, entertainment and activities. Up the sweeping staircase and past the stained glass window, another reminder of a bygone age, the older bedrooms at Parknasilla Hotel are full of character, with classic dark wood furnishings and tall bay windows. The property has 92 bedrooms and suites but the 24 two-bedroom courtyard lodges just off the main building and the 38 spacious three-bedroom villas are particularly suited to families. The older block with higher ceilings would be my preferred choice and the new rooms are quite small so know what you want before you book. The cuisine at Pygmalion Restaurant is a triumph for Head Chef Peter Brennan and the original Victorian dining room overlooking the splendour of the bay adds a sense of sophistication. A very large and beautifully appointed formal room, this is an impressive restaurant by any standards and diners are left in no doubt that this is dining in a style that befits the age and history of the building. Presentation is exquisite throughout, adding to the sense of a special occasion. The best tables, in a large semi-circular conservatory style area, have views over the garden but you need to book early to avoid disappointment. The newly developed spa and leisure centre has 13 treatment rooms and the thermal suite has a south easterly aspect incorporating a mix of wet and dry, warm, hot and cold cabins. Two different relaxation areas and the wall herb sauna face directly to private woodlands and I found the views across the ocean

breathtaking. Two outdoor hot tubs allow guests both hydro and thermal experiences in one and its fun to sit there on a cold spring day and feel the warmth of the sensation. The selection of outdoor activities at Parknasilla has come of age with something to suit everyone. On offer miles of walks, both guided and independent, tennis, a private 12 hole golf course, horse riding, petanque, croquet, archery, clay pigeon shooting, fishing, falconry and boating. Parknasilla Resort continues to be one of Ireland’s most romantic getaways, so make sure and sign the guest book on departure and join many well known visitors throughout the years including Bertie Ahern, Princess Grace of Monaco and General Charles de Gaulle to name but a few. Stay 2 nights in a standard double room with sea view including breakfast each morning and an evening meal on the night of your choice from €169 per person sharing per night. www.parknasillahotel.ie