Cromleach Lodge Country House Hotel & Spa

Castlebaldwin
Boyle
Co Sligo
The Cromleach Lodge Country House enquiries
www.cromleach.com

• Stunning location and views.
• Fabulous food, beautiful design and attention to every detail.
• Perfect romantic hideaway.

We drove the winding roads through Ireland’s serene lake district, and discovered the real gem that is Cromleach Lodge. Originally a guesthouse with a renowned restaurant, this great Irish hotel now includes every luxury on the list while remaining family owned and run. If you wanted an idyllic wedding venue; a get-away-from-it-all retreat; a gourmet or spa holiday or a very special relaxing break; Cromleach Lodge is the place to head for. We were particularly lucky when we visited recently as the sun shone on the blooming countryside and the lakes shimmered and the views were breathtaking.

ACCOMMODATION AT CROMLEACH LODGE

Both the elegant original bedrooms and the stunning light-filled new rooms all share one thing, space. We have rarely stayed in such a spacious bedroom with understated luxury and unobtrusive elegance. Our huge bed faced out the glass doors and on to the totally unspoilt countryside. Colours are mooted and in tune with nature, and nothing takes the eye or mind away from that perfect natural view over Lough Arrow. The bathroom was also spacious, separate bath and huge shower and tiling colours that again were in harmony with the countryside. Television was tucked away on the wall at the side so as to facilitate viewing without obstructing the natural vista. A separate desk with internet access, large wardrobe, robes and slippers, complementary water and super toiletries were just some of the touches that completed this super comfortable room. We would have loved to have stayed for ages and watch the seasons change the colours from our bedroom and balcony!

THE RESTAURANT AT CROMLEACH LODGE

The restaurant is the real thrill at Cromleach Lodge. Owners Christy and Moira Tighe have earned a reputation over 30 years for their superb cuisine, and run one of the best restaurants in the north west of Ireland. Service and setting are perfect and the food has that real “wow” factor. We started with Roast Quail with Apricot, Pine Nuts & Caramelized Red Onion for herself, and a succulent Peppered Angus Beef Salad with St Agur Blue Cheese for me. The crispy outside and melt-in-the-mouth inside of this beef was sublime. Perfection continued throughout our meal with a delicious Fillet of Dover Sole & (huge) lagoon Prawn with Spinach & Masala Wine Reduction, and a perfect Fillet of Irish Beef a la Layonnaise. Other choices on the menu included Saddle of Rabbit, Guinea Fowl, Rack of Lamb, hand-made pasta with Crab Meat and vegetarian parcels with goat’s cheese and vegetables. Provenance is given for all the key ingredients and the balance of flavours and sauces is perfection on a plate.

Desserts offer light, classic and indulgent choices, and while choosing one is difficult, not having one at all is an impossibility!
A well balanced wine list and good selection of wines by the glass compliment the menu and our classic Pinot Noir worked wonderfully with the meal.

THE SPA AT CROMLEACH

Just about to open in the weeks after our visit was the CIUNAS Spa, and we had a good look around as the finishing touches were being put in place. This is a serious spa on three levels and like the whole property it takes full advantage of the panoramic views. Organic products Uspa from Australia are used and an extensive range of therapies will be on offer. The seaweed baths that the area is famous for will also be available and to lie in a bath of mineral-rich organic seaweed to detox while taking in the serenity of the surroundings is something we are dreaming about.

We are looking forward to visiting Cromleach Lodge again, it is without doubt a property that we would recommend most highly. Over the years it has grown into a truly wonderful place to stay.
Cromleach Lodge Country House Hotel, Sligo