Ard Na Sidhe Hotel

Caragh Lake, Killorglin, Co. Kerry Ireland

On the shores of Caragh Lake, Ard Na Sidhe is a wonderful escape from modern life. Built in 1913 for Lady Gordon, the 18-bedroom property feels more like a family home than a hotel. There are no TVs or radios, instead there is a roaring fire, picture books and antique telephones. Then, of course, there’s the view. With a name that translates as ‘hill of the fairies’, and rambling gardens dotted with toadstools and a fairy fort, you could sit for hours taking in the magic. and being so close to Killarney, it is a good base from which to explore the Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park. The dining room serves hearty fare with an emphasis on local seafood – Kerry Coast smoked salmon, atlantic turbot, Dingle Bay seafood linguine – followed by sticky toffee pudding and irish coffee. Details Double with breakfast from €220. Caragh Lake, Killorglin, County Kerry

Foodie diversion The Brasserie at The Europe hotel serves irish steaks and atlantic seafood in a chic setting (00 353 64 6671300; theeurope.com).Come here for traditional irish hospitality and total escapism.