Ireland’s Blue Book is an elite collection of the countries finest country houses, hotels and restaurants. Entries into this prestigious guide are selected on strict criteria with a major emphasis on properties with a strong individualistic style, atmosphere and character as well as hotels which are not members of a hotel chain. Membership to the book can be difficult to achieve and also highly-prized as a result.
The newest hotels to join the collection in 2015 are Ghan House, which is located in Carlingford, County Louth, Campagne restaurant in Kilkenny and Restaurant Forty One, restaurant in Dublin.
Another addition to the Blue Book is Sea View House, which is a four bedroom house set against the backdrop of Ben Bulben in County Sligo.
The latest additions to the 2015 book, bring the total number of boutique hotels, restaurants and country houses to 47.
Campagne Restaurant in Kilkenny is an established restaurant loved by foodies. Popular with those taking a vacation in Ireland, this popular eaterie won a coveted Michelin Star Award in 2013. The restaurant which opened in 2008 focuses on high quality, seasonal produce with French influences. The contemporary restaurant is set beneath the old railway arches in the heart of Kilkenny.
Another entry to the book, Ghan House which is located in medieval Carlingford, is a listed Georgian House set amongst three acres of stunning walled gardens. Situated just a one hour drive from Dublin, the 12 bedroomed residence also boasts a 2 AA Rosette restaurant.
The stunning Ghan House located in Carlingford, County Louth dates back to 1727
Restaurant Forty One, is one of the plushest dining experiences in Dublin. Set in the heart of Dublin, overlooking St. Stephen’s Green, Graham Neville received the prestigious Food & Wine Magazine’s 2014 Chef of the Year award. Both he and his dedicated team create delicate sumptuous dishes using only the finest ingredients including vegetables sourced from their own garden in Killiney, County Dublin.
These new entries are best discovered whilst on a self drive tour of Ireland. There are 47 restaurants, country houses and hotels in Cork, Dublin and a range of other counties nationwide. All of the 47 boutique hotels, restaurants and country house represent the finest and best in Irish hospitality, accommodation and cuisine.
Really surprised there aren’t any hotels in Cork listed in this year’s Ireland’s Blue Book! I would have thought either Hayfield Manor, Inchydoney Hotel or maybe even Fota Island Resort which recently hosted the hugely successful Irish Open at its fabulous Cork Golf Club would have made the cut? There also seems to be a severe lack of restaurants in Cork listed?!