Vaughan Lodge

On closer inspection it seems that a golfer's aspirations are not so far from those of the casual tourist. The club-style bar is dotted with deep leather armchairs and sofas, overseen by a roaring fire in winter, but never by pungent clouds of gentleman's smoke. There is even a drying room for golf kit or walker's boots should you get caught out. The bedrooms are enormously comfortable; many have sweeping sea views (surfing is a popular pastime here), while the hotel as a whole retains the professionalism and informality of a small gentleman's club, respectfully hosted by Michael and Maria Vaughan.

The restaurant grows in renown by the day and the dining room doesn't disappoint with tables gleaming with buffed glass and cutlery. In the kitchen, the former head chef of Cork's famous Hayfield Manor, Philippe Farineau, whips up devastating 5-course French/Irish menus. If you are after a light meal, try the bouillabaisse, a house specialty and a heart-warming dish, consisting of red mullet, mussels, prawns, and bass.