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Gorman's Clifftop House & Restaurant

Beautifully situated near Smerwick Harbour on the Slea Head scenic drive and Dingle Way walking route, Sile and Vincent Gorman's guesthouse is, as they say themselves "just a great place to relax and unwind".

Natural materials and warm colours are a feature throughout the house, and open fires create a welcoming laid-back atmosphere.

The bedrooms are attractively furnished in a pleasing country style with thoughtfully finished bathrooms and include some on the ground floor with easy access from the parking area; four superior rooms have jacuzzi baths and other extra facilities but all are very comfortable.

The Gormans are knowledgeable and helpful hosts too, advising guests on everything they need to know in the area.

Breakfast - an excellent buffet with hot dishes cooked to order - is a treat that will set you up for the day.

*Gorman's was our Guesthouse of the Year in 2002. Children welcome (under 3s free in parents' room, cot available free of charge). No pets. Garden, cycling, walking.

Rooms 9 (2 junior suites, 2 superior, 1 for less able, 1 shower only, all no smoking). B&B about €85 pps, ss €35. Short breaks offered - details on application.

Restaurant:

With large windows commanding superb sea views, this is a wonderful place to enjoy Vincent Gorman's good cooking.

Begin with a fresh seafood chowder, perhaps - or an attractive speciality of potato cake & Annascaul black pudding sandwich with mushroom & bacon sauce, main courses include several seafood dishes (roast fillet of monkfish with roasted peppers, balsamic vinegar & olive oil dressing is a speciality) and the ever-popular sirloin steak; vegetarian choices are always given too.

Desserts, including home-made ice creams and a wicked chocolate nemesis, are a strong point too, or you can finish with an Irish cheese plate. Sile, who is a warm and solicitous host, supervises front of house.

An interesting and informative wine list offers plenty of good choices for all pockets and includes organic house wines and eight well chosen half bottles.

Seats 35. D Mon-Sat, 7-9pm. Set D €32/38.50. House wine from €18.50. Restaurant closed Sun. House open Oct-Mar by reservation only; Closed 1 Jan-10 Feb. MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

12.5km (8 m) from roundabout west of Dingle Town - sign posted An Fheothanach. Keep left at V.