On the crest of a hill overlooking the Burren, this 18th-century mansion is a cheerful landmark on the Lisdoonvarna townscape, from its yellow-painted facade to its front path lined with blooms. As the fourth generation of the same family to run the show, Martina and John Sheedy are ‘gifted hosts, whose genuine warmth creates a welcoming atmosphere, to a backdrop of the discreet bustle of a well-ordered staff’. There are two open-plan seating areas in lieu of a lounge, and a ‘comfortable, well-stocked bar’. ‘Martina Sheedy expertly directed our preprandial drinks to two heavenly G&Ts, both using artisan Irish gins.’ John Sheedy rules in the kitchen, sending ‘succulent’ vegetarian cassolet or garlicky Garrihy’s crab claws to tables in the atmospheric bar or restaurant, where guests dine by firelight. Upstairs, ‘cosseting, silent’ bedrooms, ‘filled with thoughtful extras’, all but guarantee a good night’s sleep. Morning brings a pick of Irish classics, from porridge served with compote, to a ‘lovely’ full Irish, dark coffee and ‘wonderfully tart, freshly pressed apple juice’. ‘A pot of dairy-free spread for the vegan among us was delivered with toast, a really thoughtful touch.’