Lynn Hill’s charming and unusual house on the Ballynahinch River near Roundstone was built as a sporting lodge in the eighteenth century and, true to its name, fishing remains a major attraction to this day.
But you don’t have to be a fisherperson to warm to the special charms of The Anglers Return: Lynn’s warm welcome and natural hospitality, peace and tranquillity, the opportunity to slow down in a quiet, caring atmosphere in this most beautiful area - this is its particular appeal.
It’s a place to spend time outdoors: as well as fishing, there is golf nearby, riding and boat trips can be arranged for guests - and there are maps and information for walkers too.
The house is set in three acres of natural gardens (open every day in spring and summer; best in late spring) and makes a good base for the Connemara Garden Trail - and, of course, for painting holidays in this stunningly scenic area.
In tune with its special away-from-it-all ambience, there is no television; instead there are views of the river and garden and lots of books to read. Tea and snacks are available at any time, to be enjoyed in the secluded back garden in fine weather, or beside the log fire in the soothing drawing room.
Lynn is constantly making improvements that add to her guests’ comfort, but without compromising the character and old-world charm of this lovely house in any way.
The five good-sized bedrooms are all bright and very comfortably furnished in a fresh country house style; only one is en-suite (the other four share two bathrooms between them), but this is not a major problem. All rooms have washbasins and are very near a bathroom or shower; bathroom arrangements are gradually being improved - one features a restored Victorian ball & claw cast-iron bath and separate shower - and it all emphasises the genuine country house ambience.
Breakfast is served at separate tables in a sunny dining room with double doors leading out to the lawn; it will include freshly baked breads, home-made yoghurts, marmalade and jams, and freshly picked herb teas from the garden - and you are even invited to collect your own egg.
Dinner is not normally offered (except perhaps by arrangement, for groups staying several days), but Lynn can make bookings from a choice of good restaurants nearby.
Rooms 5 (1 en-suite, 4 with shared bathrooms; all no smoking). B&B €48, ss by arrangement. Not suitable for children under 8. *Special interest breaks offered (painting, walking); details on application. Walking, fishing, garden. Closed mid Dec - Feb. No Credit Cards.
