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Hollywell Country House

After many years as hoteliers in the town (and a family tradition of inn-keeping that goes back 200 years), Tom and Rosaleen Maher moved some years ago to this delightful period house on a rise across the bridge, with its own river frontage and beautiful views over the Shannon.

It's a lovely, graciously proportioned house, with a relaxed family atmosphere. Tom and Rosaleen have an easy hospitality (not surprisingly, perhaps, as their name derives from the Gaelic "Meachar" meaning hospitable), making guests feel at home very quickly and this, as much as the comfort of the house and its tranquil surroundings, is what makes Hollywell special.

Bedrooms are all individually furnished in period style, with tea and coffee making facilities, and delicious breakfasts are worth getting up in good time for: fresh juice, fruits and choice of teas, coffees and herbal teas, freshly-baked bread, home-made preserves, lovely choice of hot dishes - anything from the "full Irish" to Irish pancakes with maple syrup or grilled cheese & tomato with black olive pesto on toast.

No evening meals, but Tom and Rosaleen advise guests on the best local choices and there's a comfortable guests' sitting room with an open fire to gather around on your return. A pathway through lovely gardens leads down to the river; fishing (coarse) on site.

Lots to do in the area - and advice a-plenty from Tom and Rosaleen on the best places to visit.

Not suitable for children under 12. Pets allowed by arrangement. Rooms 4 (2 junior suites, 2 shower only). B&B about €60 pps, ss about €30. Closed early early Nov- early Feb. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

From Dublin, cross bridge on N4, keep left at Gings pub. Hollywell entrance is on left up the hill.