Carrig Country House

A former hunting lodge, this attractive yellow 1850s building has a 'sublime setting' by a lake facing the MacGillycuddy Reeks. It is owned and managed by Mary and Frank Slattery, who greet their visitors warmly. In the evening, drinks are served with canapés in a handsome drawing room with an open fire; the Slatterys take orders for dinner. In the restaurant (open to non-residents), the chef, John Luke, cooks an extensive seasonal menu of Irish/continental dishes, eg, potted pork coppa, grain mustard, bulgar wheat; Kerry beef bourguignon, roasted pearl onions, basmati rice. A pianist sometimes accompanies the meal, or there might be background music. The bedrooms 'have everything you need', and views of lake or woodland (ground-floor rooms have a patio). In the large grounds are camellias and azaleas, 950 species of trees, rare flowers and shrubs; also marked walks, a stream and waterfalls. Outdoor activities of all kinds are available in the area, and the Slatterys offer an 'exclusive massage and beauty treatment'. More reports, please.