2022 Award Winners ‘SMALL STAY’ AWARDS 2022

'Small Stay' Awards 2022

COUNTRY HOUSE: Rathsallagh House Dunlavin Co Wicklow

A favourite destination that has delighted guests (including wedding guests) to West Wicklow for many a year, the O’Flynn family’s large, rambling country house on the Wicklow-Kildare border is still ‘just a lovely, relaxing place to visit’. Although only an hour from Dublin, it could be in a different world and the O’Flynns have always been insistent that it is ‘not an hotel’. It has a classic country house atmosphere - but it’s very professionally run, stylish in the classic country house manner, really comfortable and exceptionally hospitable. Good food has always been central to Rathsallagh too - starting with seasonal produce from the farm and beautiful walled garden (a lovely spot for a quiet walk), guests will eat well here.

GUESTHOUSE: Bedford Townhouse & Café Limerick

Close to the Hunt Museum and within comfortable walking distance of the city's main attractions, this sympathetically restored four-star guesthouse and daytime café offers an interesting and moderately-priced alternative to hotel accommodation - and everything about it reflects a sense of pride in the city and the house itself, which was once home to the Limerick Clothing Factory. When Denise and Peter Brazil opened Bedford House in 2018, they wanted to provide 'a truly unique guest experience', and its history is relfected in everything 'from our needle and thread logo to our Bedford Row Heritage Trail on display in The Parlour Room'. The Brazils and their team do everything possible to create a home from home for guests - they even offer a Personalised Concierge Service to ensure that guests get the most out of their visit to Limerick – and breakfast is available in the café, which suits many guests better than a guesthouse dining room. A very useful place to know about when visiting Limerick - a city that is full of interest and pleasing surprises.

B&B: Frewin Ramelton Co Donegal

The true Irish B&B - where genuine hospitality combines with good, simple food and a desire for guests to be really comfortable and have the best possible experience of the area - is an absolute gem.

The stereotyped image of a B&B as a charmless bungalow is very far from what’s on offer at many places in Ireland these days, and Frewin is one of the best examples of a more appealing stay. A large Victorian house set in mature gardens Thomas and Regina Coyle’s home is a lovely relaxed place, and the rooms have individual style and old-fashioned charm. They restored the property with great attention to period detail – and, as Thomas specialises in restoring old buildings and is a collector by nature, much of his collection finds a place in this interesting house. Thomas and Regina are great hosts - and, while evening meals are not normally offered (the pretty riverside town of Ramelton is just a short walk), Regina provides a delicious
breakfast, including freshly baked breads warm from the oven, served at a long table where guests can chat about their experiences and plan the day ahead.
`definitely not yoiur average B&B.

HIDEAWAY: Killiane Castle Country House & Farm Drinagh Co Wexford

Everyone loves the idea of a hideaway, and this is one of our most popular awards. Whether it’s the establishments itself which offers that sense of privacy and seclusion, or its location, there is something very appealing about a place that you can disappear to and escape everyday pressures.

Once known as a family-friendly destination, Killiane Castle is now a tranquil retreat for couples looking for an alternative to the hotel experience, Paul and Patrycja Mernagh’s magical 17th century country house is the perfect place for stressed townies. As well as offering luxurious and exceptionally comfortable accommodation, plenty to read (notably the history of the 15th century Norman castle standing beside the house) and a lovely garden, stand-out details include an honesty bar in the comfy lounge, a snug tea and coffee station with
homemade goodies available 24/7. Other attractions include the farm walk, driving range and croquet, also honey for sale, which may also be part of an outstanding breakfast. But best of all is the personal attention - Paul and Patrycja are true hoteliers.