At a Glance
Quintessential Irish country farmhouse with a world-renowned cookery school and restaurant.
Indagare Loves
- The Ballymaloe Cookery School and Gardens
- Garden rooms with views of the river
- Cliff walks in Shanagarry
Review
Ballymaloe offers an incredibly unique experience, as it is both a quintessential Irish country farmhouse and home to a world-renowned cooking school. In 1964, Myrtle Allen, started a revolution in the Irish culinary world when she opened the restaurant at Ballymaloe House. Her home soon became a hotel to accommodate guests that came to experience her food and life on the farm. Years later, Darina Allen, Myrtle’s daughter-in-law, opened the Ballymaloe Cookery School with her brother Rory and today, Ballymaloe is well known both for the quality of their teachings and the vision of both Darina and Myrtle.
Rooms are cozy and decorated in light, soothing colors with floral fabrics and wallpapers and comfortable beds. Visitors will feel like part of the family and food lovers will appreciate the opportunity to see the property and experience the farm to table connection first hand. In addition to the farm and cooking school, there is a beach nearby so guests can see where the seafood comes from each day as fishermen arrive with their catch. Guests can also learn how to make bread, taste wine and collect eggs or enjoy a tour of the grounds, yoga or a massage. The town of Shanagarry is nearby, where guests can go on a cliff walk, go fishing or horseback riding and visit the nearby Ballycotton island and lighthouse.
Who Should Stay
Those who are looking for an authentic Irish country experience will be head over heels for Ballymaloe. Guests should not expect uber luxurious accommodations but rather comfortable surroundings, incredible food and soulful service.
Written by Indagare