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The Smugglers Inn

Lucille and Henry Hunt’s famous clifftop inn enjoys a remarkable location right beside the world famous championship Waterville Golf Links.

Gradual refurbishment of the premises has seen big improvements over the last few years; most recently the whole frontage has been upgraded and, together with colourful window boxes, it makes a welcoming first impression.

This is an attractive place for an informal meal in the comfortable bar or, in fine sunny weather, at garden tables that overlook a mile of sandy beach to the sea and mountains beyond.

The popular restaurant is in a large conservatory dining area which is shaded to avoid glare, and has magnificent views of the golf links and clubhouse, Ballinskelligs Bay and the McGillycuddy Reeks.

Henry Hunt is a talented and dedicated chef, and local ingredients star in cooking which has a classical foundation, but includes modern dishes too, most noticeably on the bar menu. Seafood is the speciality, but non-seafood lovers have plenty of other choices, including Kerry lamb and beef, also some good vegetarian dishes.

Lunch is served every day (the set lunch menu is good value, as is the early dinner), and bar snacks are available throughout the day, making this an ideal place to take a break when on the Ring of Kerry - although a phone call to check availability of food is advisable.

Restaurant/Bar Seats 90. Children welcome before 7.30pm (high chair; children's menu); air conditioning. Restaurant: L 12-3 (to 4 Sun), D 6-9.30; bar food 12-8.30, (snack menu only 3-6 pm). Set Sun L €30. Early D €30 (6-7pm). Set D €41, also á la carte; house wine €18.50. NB - Minimum credit card transaction is €50.

Accommodation is also offered, in pleasant rooms which have all been recently redecorated; they vary in size, outlook and facilities (one has a balcony) and price, but all are comfortably furnished in a homely style.

There’s a large first-floor residents’ sitting room with sofas and armchairs, books, television - and magnificent sea views.

Rooms 14 (9 shower only, 1 family, 3 ground floor); children welcome (under 4s free in parents' room, cots available without charge); free broadband wi/fi; pets allowed in some areas by arrangement. B&B €55, ss €30. Garden, walking, fishing. Closed Nov-Mar. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser

Directions:

Before village of Waterville, on coast road next to Golf Club.