Ballyfin, 5*

Ballyfin

Ballyfin's magnificent interiors are decorated with Irish art and antiques from around the world, in the same spirit of refined elegance that the early House reflected in the 1820s. For today's guest, though, formality is blended with an informal, relaxed and easy-going approach that is wonderfully warm and welcoming. With just 15 bedrooms, Ballyfin has all the flavour of a grand private house with all the services of an international five star hotel. Step outdoors to enjoy 600 acres of private parkland, a 28 acre lake, ancient woods, follies and grottoes. Activities include archery, boating, horse riding, pony and trap, coarse fishing, hiking in the nearby Slieve Bloom Mountains, biking in the Demesne and clay pigeon shooting.