November 2017: Ireland’s Blue book is delighted to announce the addition of four new properties to its collection of country houses, hotels and restaurants for 2018. Included this year is Castle Grove Country House, Co. Donegal; Glenlo Abbey, Galway; Virginia Park Lodge, Co. Cavan; and the private rental property, Killadangan House, Co. Mayo.
The announcement was made at the Blue Book Annual General Meeting of Blue Book hoteliers and restaurateurs which took place in Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan on November 7th, 2017.
Speaking about the event, renowned chef Richard Corrigan of Virginia Park Lodge said, ‘I am thrilled that Virginia Park Lodge is to become part of the Blue Book family. The welcome that we have received here today has been delightful, and we look forward to working with our new colleagues in the year ahead.’
The new additions bring the total number of properties in the collection to 53 for 2018, the highest number since the Blue Book Association was founded in 1974.
About Castle Grove Country House, Co. Donegal
Castle Grove is a family-run Georgian house, built in 1695 and set on its own 250-acre estate. Situated at the end of a mile-long avenue on the shores of Lough Swilly it’s the perfect base to explore beautiful Donegal and The Wild Atlantic way. Two drawing rooms with open fireplaces, library, cosy bar and bedrooms are furnished with antiques and luxury fabrics. The award-winning fine dining restaurant serves excellent cuisine prepared by the master chefs, who combine locally sourced produce with organically grown fruit and vegetables from the four acre Walled Garden.
About Glenlo Abbey, Galway
Nestled peacefully on a stunning 138-acre estate on the edge of Lough Corrib, the 5* Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Golf resort offers the discerning traveller a warm, personable and luxurious base during their travels to Galway. The beautiful, rugged and unspoilt natural scenery of Connemara lies right on its doorstep and creates a soft and balanced contrast to the vibrant and eclectic surroundings of life in Galway City. Guests can dine aboard the award-winning Pullman Restaurant, set on two original Orient Express carriages, now a fine dining restaurant on the hotel grounds. A stay in Glenlo Abbey would not be complete without savouring the two AA rosette awarded fine dining experience in one of Ireland’s most unique and historic settings.
About Virginia Park Lodge, Co. Cavan
An 18th century hunting estate set in 100 acres of beautiful countryside overlooking Lough Ramor. Truly a unique estate and former home of Lord Headfort and his wife, the Marchioness of Headfort. The property has been brought back to life and into the Irish hands of Chef Richard Corrigan - one of the most established Irish chefs in the UK and beyond; also operating his flagship London restaurant Corrigan’s in Mayfair and the 101-year-old Bentley’s Oyster Bar & Grill in Piccadilly. The stunning estate is a haven for walkers, fishermen, boaters and those simply looking to relax in serene beauty of the Irish countryside. 12 Woodland Huts provide additional accommodation for the estate and are located on the grounds overlooking the beautiful Lough Ramor.
About Killadangan House, Co. Mayo
Killadangan House is a beautifully restored and elegantly furnished period property overlooking Clew Bay, 5km from Westport town. Newly launched for 2018, it offers luxurious self-catering accommodation to groups of up to ten. Killadangan is just minutes from Blue Flag beaches, The Great Western Greenway and Croagh Patrick, as well as the superb restaurants, cafes, nightlife of Westport town. A stunning property for families and friends looking for the space and grandeur of a period country house but with the privacy and flexibility of self-catering. Small exclusive all-inclusive retreats are also organised throughout the year.