Delphi Lodge & Estate

We got to try fly fishing for a while during our honeymoon, which was a lovely bonus. The staff welcomed us warmly and answered all our questions. We could chat with them and the other guests while still having our own privacy. It’s a great choice if you want to get off the beaten path in Ireland, and they feed you well.

Dinner brought everyone together around one table. The local food was colourful, tasty, beautifully presented, and served in generous portions. Before that, guests mingled in the sitting room over drinks from the open bar, where you mix your own and write down what you’ve had. Dinner started later than planned, but we were offered appetizers while we waited and nobody seemed bothered. Afterward we played snooker in a large room tucked away from everyone else. The house itself is a magnificent old mansion facing the lake, set in beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the other guests were there to fish for salmon, and there’s a little boat that fits 3-4 people. We were shown around, then taken to spacious, comfortable bedrooms. Ours looked out over the lake. There’s no TV, which seemed deliberate, and we didn’t miss it. It encouraged people to spend time together. It’s expensive, but I loved the stay and felt it was worth it. The comfort, facilities, staff, food, and chance to connect with people made it one of the best hotels I’ve stayed at in Ireland, maybe the best.

Dinner was the highlight for me. Guests eat together each night, and the meal was outstanding. Mary even saved me a piece of chocolate cake for breakfast the next morning. :) The house was comfortable and charming, with a lovely view around it, and Delphi felt like home. The staff went out of their way to make our stay wonderful. My mom managed to go fishing despite the last-minute booking, while I spent a quiet day walking and reading in the library. I’d highly recommend joining the dinners if you stay.

The way the staff and guests made the stay feel was outstanding, and the rooms were cozy and beautifully furnished. The lodge itself is absolutely stunning. If you fish, the location is ideal. Be sure to have dinner at least one night, or every night if you can. The hotel prepares a special menu for guests each evening, and the food is exquisite. I can’t say enough about our time at Delphi Lodge, and I hope I get to come back.