Formerly known as Iragh Tí Connor, which translates as "the inheritance of O'Connor", John and Joan O'Connor's fine establishment in Ballybunion began as a 19th century pub with potential and, thanks to their scrupulous attention to detail when planning and sourcing materials like real slates and wooden windows for its transformation, their inheritance now has a quality country house feeling and exceptionally large, comfortable bedrooms.
All rooms were carefully refurbished and furnished with antiques to complement the convenience of satellite television, direct dial phones and generous bathrooms with cast-iron tubs and power showers - and many rooms even have working fireplaces, where fires can be lit on request.
Public areas, which include the original public bar and a lounge bar (recently transformed to create a smart contemporary space with a welcoming bistro vibe), are also generous in scale, and furnished with style and individuality. In addition to the good food served in the bar, there's a fine dining restaurant where chef Colm O'Halloran has earned a following for his cooking, and a baby grand adds to the atmosphere.
Golfing holidays are a serious attraction here and Kilcooly's Country House has established a reputation as one of the best places to stay on the discerning golfers' circuits.
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