2017 Award Winners HOST OF THE YEAR 2017

Kathleen O'Sullivan, Seaview House Hotel, Ballylickey, Co Cork

Time after time, visitor satisfaction surveys tell us the same story about the things people love about Ireland - everyone loves the wonderful scenery and the warmth and friendliness of the people. While not the whole story - training plays a major role - warmth and friendliness are of course the foundation of real hospitality, and essential characteristics in a good host and it is interesting to note the number of otherwise excellent hotels that fall short because of one single failing - lack of a host.

Down in the South-West, where such shortcomings are very rare, a warm welcome and personal supervision are the hallmarks of one of Ireland’s most restful and best-loved country house hotels.

Beautifully located at the heart of scenic West Cork, Seaview House Hotel has been in business now for over three decades and, like every other Irish hotel, it has been through good times and bad. But repeat business has always been the secret weapon of this delightful place.

This is partly due to the lovely location, the beautiful gardens, the very comfortable accommodation (with sea views from many of the spacious rooms), the immaculate maintenance and housekeeping, and the excellent local food served in the restaurant.

But most of all it is owner Kathleen O’Sullivan’s special brand of quiet and understated hospitality that has made it a home from home for so many regular guests down through the years - and, should you have reason to wait at Reception while guests are checking out, the chances are very high that you will hear them making plans for the next visit before they leave. It’s that kind of place.