You could be forgiven for thinking that Edmund and Eunice Power’s fine guesthouse in Dungarvan has been here for a long time - although quite new, the garden has matured well and this, together with traditional country house style of both the house and furnishing, gives it an unexpected sense of age.
Antiques and interesting fabrics create a soothing and relaxing atmosphere throughout the house, including a comfortable, homely sitting room as well as bedrooms which have been individually decorated and finished to a high standard, with smart bathrooms and all the necessary comforts.
Eunice is an enthusiastic professional cook (she teaches cooking classes in house, details on application, and at The Tannery Cookery School, nearby) and offers dinner to residents by arrangement; her menus are based on local produce and their own vegetable garden is now fully productive, allowing Eunice to be self-sufficient in seasonal produce during the summer.
The breakfast offering is a moveable feast, depending on what’s in season, and it's always a treat. Much of the produce used is organic and eggs are from the their own hens, happily scratching outside. Don't expect a formal menu though, or an elaborate buffet. Instead, Eunice explains what’s available to guests, and she will happily prepare pretty much anything requested.
On a recent visit, seasonal dishes heartily enjoyed included stewed gooseberries with yogurt and granola, served with fresh raspberries; also Ardsallagh goat’s cheese served on toasted bread with grilled tomatoes,mushrooms and toasted hazelnuts - a very refreshing and healthy change to the more usual ‘Full Irish’ (which, of course, is also available).
Powersfield is a lovely, friendly place to stay and would make a good base for exploring the area - and it's worth staying for the breakfast alone.
Rooms 4 (all en-suite, no smoking & shower only, 1 family); B&B €55 pps, ss €10. Children welcome (under 4 free in parents' room; cot available without charge; children's playground, baby sitting arranged). Dogs allowed in some areas by arrangment (kennel in garden); Room service (limited hours). Residents' D by arrangement about €25-35; house wine €20-30; sc discretionary. *Cookery Courses available, details on application. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.
