In 'rambling gardens, full of surprises', this 19th-century manor house, 'very much a home', has been run for more than 40 years by the McEvilly family. Kay McEvilly 'seems never to be off-duty', said a returning visitor. 'If she is not in the dining room, she's gardening.' To combine her passions, she has introduced two-night gardening courses hosted by a leading Irish plantsman, Ciaran Burke. The house, 'cleverly extended' to side and rear, has an 'appropriate country house decor, antiques in the hall and the welcoming lounge', leather seating in the big bar. Bedrooms vary in size; not all face the sea. 'Our corner room had big bed, neat sitting area, traditional furnishings, heavy drapes, a little faded.' Ray Doorley assists Mrs McEvilly in the restaurant with its conservatory extension. The five-course menus of Arturo Amit and Arturo Tillo have a wide choice, including locally caught fish, eg, monkfish with saffron and coriander. One couple encountered linguistic problems with foreign staff. Breakfast has a big buffet with porridge, croissants, fresh fruits; three types of fish (a supplement is charged for smoked salmon); leaf tea, 'super bread', home-made preserves. More reports, please.