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Rock Cottage

Garden-lovers, especially, will thrill to the surroundings of Barbara Klotzer's beautiful slate-clad Georgian hunting lodge near Schull, which is on a south-facing slope away from the sea, nearby at Dunmanus Bay.

A fascinating combination of well-tended lawns and riotous flower beds, the rocky outcrop which inspired its name - and even great estate trees in the 17 acres of parkland (complete with peacefully grazing sheep) that have survived from an earlier period of its history - create a unique setting.

The whole of the main house has been redecorated recently but it has always been known for its style and comfort, with welcoming open fires and bright bedrooms which - although not especially large - are thoughtfully furnished to allow little seating areas as well as the usual amenities such as tea/coffee making facilities, and en-suite power showers.

There's a sheltered courtyard behind the house and also some appealing self-catering accommodation, in converted stables.

And Barbara is an accomplished chef - so you can look forward to a dinner based on the best of local produce, with starters like fresh crab salad or warm Ardsallagh goat's cheese, main courses of Rock Cottage's own rack of lamb, or even lobster or seafood platters, beautiful vegetables and classic desserts like home-baked vanilla cheesecake or strawberry fool.

Extensive breakfast choices include a Healthy Breakfast and a Fish Breakfast as well as traditional Irish and continental combinations - just make your choice before 8pm the night before.

Barbara also offers laundry facilities - very useful when touring around.

Rooms 3 (all en-suite, 2 shower only, all no smoking); not suitable for children under 10. B&B from €70 pps, ss €30. Breakfast, 8.30-9.30 (order by 8pm the night before). Residents D Mon-Sat, €50, at 7.30pm; BYO wine. No D on Sun. No pets, garden, walking. Open all year. MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

From Schull, 10km, at Toormore, turn into R591 after 2km. Sign on left.