We stayed at Annaghmore House in County Sligo, Ireland for two nights in early July, and we can't wait to stay there again. Annaghmore House is at the end of a gravel driveway through the woods, over a stone bridge, and situated in an idyllic spot overlooking green hills and fields - with sheep!. In short, it's exactly what you're looking for when you travel to the western Ireland.
Nicola and her husband are in the process of renovating Annaghmore House, and it's exciting to see their progress. The ceilings are incredibly high, and it's a treat just to walk around and marvel at the house's grandeur. The hosts are welcoming but not overbearing, offering tea and biscuits and a terrific breakfast each morning. The room we stayed in was huge but comfortable, overlooking the aforementioned flock of sheep.
In terms of nearby attractions, Annaghmore House couldn't be better located. It's a short drive to Sligo town, full of restaurants, bars, and the beautiful Garavogue River if you're looking for a quintessentially Irish night out. We did the drive easily (and it was surprisingly simple for this American to drive on the lefthand side of the road). At our hosts' suggestion, we also drove the short distance to Strandhill - a surfer's paradise and a beachy retreat - and Mullaghmore, another beautiful harbor town with a sad but fascinating story. We also hiked up Knocknarea, site of the grave of the ferocious Iron Age Queen Maeve (reputedly buried standing up and facing her enemies). In addition to the fantastic history on Knocknarea, you get some breathtaking and postcard-worthy views of the countryside and of Benbulbin, the table mountain that County Sligo is known for.
It was great to have all these attractions so nearby, and getting to return home to a gracious manor house afterward. We're already looking forward to returning to Annaghmore House and to enjoying everything that County Sligo has to offer. We can't rate this place highly enough.