Gregans Castle Hotel

It may not be a castle but this rambling 18th-century manor house, wrapped in gardens and with views over the otherworldly karst landscape of the Burren, has its own romantic charm. Indeed, author J R R Tolkien was said to have drawn inspiration from the surroundings when he stayed here. Run by the same family since 1976, now headed by Simon Haden and Frederieke McMurray, the hotel is designed to let guests relax and take in the natural beauty, but among modern comforts. Soothing colours, modern art and antiques fill public rooms; the drawing room invites with a fire, books, sofas and large windows overlooking the gardens. Bedrooms are equally calming with fresh colours, original art, more flowers and books. All have views over the garden or towards Galway Bay. Have a drink in the Corkscrew bar with its open fire before moving into the elegant dining room to enjoy Modern Irish dishes that make creative use of local, organic and foraged produce: perhaps beef with salsify, morels and wild garlic. Breakfast on pancakes, eggs Benedict or smoked haddock before a day spent wildlife-spotting or walking the Cliffs of Moher.