Fodor's Expert Review Tankardstown House

A sumptuous Georgian-era manor house with a classic walled garden and 80 acres of breathtaking parkland, no expense was spared in the loving restoration of what is often lauded as Ireland's best private house hotel. This squat, two-story house is sheltered by a forested hill. The property was once in a state of absolute disrepair, but owners Trish and Brian Conroy brought the seven guest rooms and seven courtyard cottages up-to-date, restoring delicate plasterwork ceilings and adding cascading drapes and Sheraton-style antiques. In the former cowshed, the Brabazon restaurant offers great outdoor dining options in summer and an intimate, romantic dining room for the cooler months.