Owned since 2013 by the Kang family of Xiu Lan Hotels, who also own the Kingsley Hotel in Cork city, this is one of Ireland's most desirable destinations.
A beautiful tree-lined driveway curves its way onto this private island in East Cork setting the tone for a special stay in a magical setting - and the large lobby with open fire and plenty of comfortable seating continues the good impression.
Directly off reception are is the bright and spacious Amber Bar with views over the lawns and a generous decking area for fine weather. It shares a fire with the adjoining formal restaurant and is a pleasant spot for afternoon tea or perhaps a post dinner whiskey from the specialist collection.
Accommodation is luxurious with a muted contemporary colour scheme and many of the suites and rooms enjoy panoramic views over woodlands or the resort’s golf courses; all are spacious and extremely comfortable, with large beds and flat screen TV. Beautiful bathrooms are chic and spacious, with double-ended baths with headrests and separate walk-in shower. A thoughtful in-room folder contains helpful itinerary suggestions for day trips, adventure, shopping and family excursions.
Serving local food has always been a focus here and hotel guests, holidaymakers staying in the self-catering lodges on the grounds, golfers and locals come here for the all day food in the Amber Lounge, casual fare in The Spike Bar or evening dining in Fota Restaurant (see below). Breakfast is also served in this attractive room and can be a high point of a stay, with a generous buffet, freshly baked goods, a cooked to order menu and charming service.
The Fota Spa is a big attraction, with a large pool and separate children’s pool that enjoys wonderful natural light, as well as 18 beauty rooms and a hydrotherapy suite. And golf is a reason to visit for mny, of course although - despite offering 3 championship golf courses - tee times can be hard to come by at the adjacent Fota Island Golf Course. The resort also offers tennis courts, jogging trails and a dedicated kids programme over school holidays, as well as kids buffet and a small playground.
The Cove
Luxury is very much to the fore at this fine dining destination - the unspoiled views, the beautiful setting with its well appointed tables, the professional service, the carefully considered menus...Artisan produce is strongy favoured and the team takes pride in showcasing local Irish ingredients like Skeaghanore duck, St Tola cheese and Clonakilty black pudding.
The à la carte menu features a broad selection of gourmet treats like lobster, black Dover sole, truffles, beef fillet with foie gras and Patanegro ham. Imaginative table d’hote and children’s menus are also available.
Detailed information is given on the main food suppliers, and all menus at the resort highlight vegetarian and coeliac friendly dishes, and indicate any containing nuts. An extensive wine list offers plenty of choice and the combination of relaxed setting, attentive staff and special occasion dishes should ensure a pleasant experience
