A ‘country way of life’ is preserved at this traditional hotel on the edge of a village on the west Cork coast. Kathleen O’Sullivan, who welcomed newcomers and regular returnees for many years, has now retired; her nephew, Ronan O’Sullivan, has taken over stewardship of this popular place. In private grounds overlooking Bantry Bay, the house is filled with family heirlooms, ornaments and objets d’art; there are books to borrow in the cosy library. Tea can be taken in the garden on a sunny day. Bedrooms of various sizes have fine furniture and art on the walls. When cool evenings draw in, gather for an aperitif by the fire in the lounge before sitting down to a dinner of home-cooked country food, served in the garden-facing restaurant. 4 km N of Bantry town.