Last weekend I was invited to Inchydoney Lodge & Spa in my favourite part of Ireland West Cork. Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa is situated just outside the colourful heritage town of Clonakilty, a region blessed with some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery. This 4 star property overlooks the Atlantic Ocean & Blue Flag Beach and has long been appreciated for its romantic and picturesque location. Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa combines a stunning location, contemporary accommodation, unique seawater therapies and sumptuous dining to create a most special getaway.
Located in the heart of the South West of Ireland, West Cork is almost a separate region in its own right. It begins at Kinsale, the gourmet capital of Ireland, and runs in a westerly direction to Dursey Island at the tip of the Beara Peninsula. Both landscape and coastline become more complex and rugged as you proceed westwards. It is festooned with little ports, bays, inlets and harbours and boats of every type and design are there, fishing, sailing and cruising. Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa is a wonderful base from where to begin your adventure into the discovery of West Cork. From fishing villages to market towns, quaint shops to upmarket boutiques, beaches to rugged coastline.
With ocean views and private balcony or terrace, each of the guest rooms is a haven of rest and relaxation. The balcony displays stunning coastline views, the interiors are ocean themed and fitted with all necessary mod cons. You can enjoy a freshly brewed coffee from your personal in room Nespresso Machine while you pore over the morning papers or simply lounge on the balcony over breakfast with a good book. Each contemporary guest room is designed to allow you to appreciate the stunning coastline below. Light floods through the double sliding doors and the hypnotic sound of the sea reminds you just how close to nature you are.
Greeted with two G&T’s and a desert display upon arrival the friendly staff made the whole experience thoroughly enjoyable. The breakfast menu was one of the most extensive I’ve had the pleasure of enjoying and the dinner menu was filled with fresh fish and intricate dish options. Upon departure I was even gifted with some homemade jam; a personal touch that makes all the difference when you regularly stay in hotels. The weather was stormy throughout the stay so I didn’t get to explore as much as I wanted to but it meant I really made the most of the hotel and it’s various amenities including the sumptuous spa.
The Island Spa at Inchydoney is home to Irelands first Seawater Spa, offering a unique experience in Seawater Therapies as well more traditional Spa Treatments and Rituals. All hotel and apartment guests can enjoy complimentary access to the Seawater Therapy Pool, the Ocean View Relaxation Areas and the Fruit & Juice Bar, as well as the Steam Room, Sauna and Gym. The view from the pool is beautifully breathtaking and there’s various jacuzzi spots to relax and enjoy it from. The Island Spa also offers a wide range of Beauty and Body Treatments as well as Rituals and Day Packages. Away from the hustle and bustle, there’s a private sanctuary known as the Couples Suite ideal for those wishing to completely escape. The suite boasts its own private treatment room for two with ensuite showers and a private relaxation area to melt away those aches and pains and soothe the senses. A full body massage, some herbal tea, strawberries and cream later and I felt the weight of the world fall from my shoulders. If you’re considering a West Coast break then I would highly recommend choosing Inchydoney.
