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Delphi Lodge

One of Ireland's most famous sporting lodges, Delphi Lodge was built in the early 19th-century by the Marquis of Sligo, and is magnificently located in an unspoilt valley, surrounded by the region's highest mountains (with the high rainfall so dear to fisherfolk).

Owned since 1986 by Peter Mantle - who has restored and extended the original building in period style - the lodge is large and impressive in an informal, understated way, with antiques, fishing gear and a catholic collection of reading matter, creating a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere.

The guest rooms are all quite different, but they have lovely lake and mountain views, good bathrooms, and are very comfortably furnished. Dinner, for residents only, is taken house-party style at a long oak table - traditionally presided over by the person lucky enough to catch the day's biggest salmon.

The set menu begins with an amuse-bouche ('Tongue Tickler'), of Irish goat's cheese beignets with beetroot salad, perhaps, and has earned a reputation for good cooking that reaches far beyond the valley; current house specialities delighting the happy fisherfolk are classic dishes like langoustine bisque, bouillabaisse and rib of beef - and there are sometimes unusual ingredients like the nephrops from Killary Bay, which might come with warmed rocket butter.

Coffee and home-made chocolates round off the feast in the Piano Room, where, perhaps, the good company of other guests may keep you from your bed.

The famous Delphi Fishery is the main attraction, but many people come for other country pursuits, painting, or just peace and quiet. A billiard table, the library and a serious wine list (great bottles at a very modest mark-up) can get visitors through a lot of wet days.

* Delphi Lodge was our Country House of the Year in 2006.

Small conferences/banqueting (20/28); free broadband wi/fi. Fly fishing, hunting/shooting, cycling, snooker, walking. Sea angling, golf and garden visits nearby. Rooms 12 (all executive standard). B&B €100 pps, ss €35. Residents D 8pm; D €50; L Sun only 1-2pm, €20. 8 well-chosen house wines, all €25; SC discretionary. Closed 20 Dec - mid Jan. MasterCard, Visa, Laser. Heli-pad.

Directions:

13km (8 m) northwest of Leenane on the Louisburgh road.