Seven Reasons You Should Stay At… The Lodge At Ashford Castle In Mayo

Recently, we had the pleasure of visiting The Lodge at Ashford Castle in Mayo and let’s just say, we really didn’t want to leave. The Lodge at Ashford Castle is the latest addition to the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, a family-run collection of award-winning boutique hotels located in the UK, South Africa, Switzerland and the USA. From outstanding service to a luxurious setting, here are more than a few reasons to stay in this truly incredible establishment... __________________________________ 1. Perfect Location The Lodge at Ashford Castle is nestled in the on the outskirts of the charming village of Cong, which is also home to the making of one of Ireland’s greatest films, ‘The Quiet Man’. Although it is the perfect hideaway retreat, The Lodge is located just a 40-minute drive from Galway and neighbouring Westport and Connemara. The Lodge is right in the heart of everything that the region has to explore and the hotel offers both adventure and an opportunity to simply sit back, relax and completely unwind. 2. The Decor The Lodge at Ashford Castle is decadent throughout and it boasts some of the greatest interiors we've ever seen. With polished wooden floors, cosy velvet couches, luxurious armchairs, beautiful commissioned works of art and tall graceful mirrors gloriously reflecting light throughout the building, it truly has an interior worth writing about. Each bedroom has been allocated a name and oozes complete calm and comfort, and sparkles with elegant touches of sophistication. The outdoor areas surrounding between the car park, main hotel and lodges are all perfectly kept grounds. 3. The Views Overlooking Lough Corrib, The Lodge at Ashford Castle is home to some of the most stunning views we've ever had the pleasure of encountering. Our favourite spot is a throw-up between the first floor restaurant Wilde’s incredible view of the hotel's grounds with the Lough in the distance or the 'OMG' corner on the pathway from The Lodge to Ashford Castle, given that name because of the exceptional beauty of the castle and its grounds as you turn a corner after exiting the forest. 4. The Food As well as a continental breakfast which consists of everything from fruit salads to muffins, there is also a comprehensive warm breakfast menu which is made from scratch to your liking. Before our trip we'd heard the rumours of Head Chef, Jonathan Keane, exceptional culinary skills however these exceeded all expectations. John has a reputation for inventive cuisine, giving guests an interesting and authentic experience showcasing the very finest local produce. From delectable starters and sneaky tasters to exquisite main courses and our surprise dessert - custom made Keane cake especially for us - Wilde's tantalising menu caters for every need. The restaurant also boasts an impressive and extensive drinks list, which is always a plus, and has a perfectly relaxing and intimate setting with a phenomenal view of the Lough. Cullen’s at the Cottage earned its named in memory of the magnanimous Peter Cullen who dedicated many years of service at Ashford Castle Estate. They continue to pay tribute to Peter by ensuring Cullen’s at the Cottage embraces all the elements of good old-fashioned Irish hospitality. Much like Wilde's, the food in Cullen's is exceptional and we cannot stress enough how life changing the rice pudding with salted caramel is. Life. Changing. 5. The Activities Archery - Yes, the ladies of Her.ie turned their hand to archery and it was a case of lucky first shot for one in particular. Located beside Ashford Castle Estate's stables, we were put through our archery paces by Feidhlim Diegnan, an absolute gentleman that has the patience of a saint - he'd have needed it with the amount of stray arrows after said lucky first shot. Corrib Cruise -  is a family run passenger boat service on Lough Corrib operated by brothers Patrick and David Luskin since the 70s that departs right beside the gates of Ashford Castle Estate. This convenient location makes it easy for Lodge visitors to experience Inchagoill island. With three options to choose from - a History, Island or Irish Music Cruise, it is the perfect way to fill a few hours. We must admit, besides Captain David's extensive knowledge of the island and powerful wit, not to mention First Mate John O'Brien's hospitality - he was good enough to part with a fleece for one fairly cold member of the Her Team. It was Martin, the storytelling, sean-nós singing, accordion playing gent that stole our hearts. He also made an appearance alongside John Wayne in The Quiet Man. The Hawk Walk at the Irish School of Falconry is something that everyone must experience at least once in their lifetime. During each walk you are given a full insight into this remarkable relationship as every one of the hawks have been trained. We had the fantastic Aurelie O'Sullivan showing us the ropes. We got the opportunity to fly two hawks around Ashford Castle Estate gardens and woodlands. Aurelie gave us such an amazing insight into birds of prey in the wild, their ecology and conservation. If the member of the Her.ie Team who has an extreme fear of birds can overcome it, then it should be a hawk walk in the park for the rest of you! 6. Jazz Dunch After a busy day, we kicked back to enjoy a Jazz Dunch in the Piano Gallery. Greeted on arrival with a glass of Prosecco it is the ideal way to spend a Sunday afternoon. A platter of fine artisan meats and cheeses with seasonal fruits was served to the table for all to enjoy. Five firm kitchen favourites are usually on offer to choose as a main course, created by award-winning chef Jonathan Keane, however we gave this part a miss and headed straight for desserts in order to make room for our dinner later that evening. The dessert platter boasts a selection of homemade puddings, pastries and sweets for the table. All the while we enjoyed timeless jazz classics on the piano. 7. The Service From the minute you check-in to the moment you leave, the staff go over and above their line of duty to ensure you have the best possible stay. From the attentive waiting staff to the friendly folk on reception, everyone is extremely accommodating without being overbearing. Red Carnation have a motto 'no request too large, no detail too small', which will can wholly vouch was in practice during our stay. We must express our love for waiter Richard who attended to our every need during our Jazz Dunch, every need that included more cheese and bread! John, thank you. If there's one place you visit this summer, make it The Lodge at Ashford Castle. ______________________________ Hawk Walk package: Two nights accommodation for two people with breakfast and one evening meal at Wilde’s, including a welcome drink on arrival, early check-in and late check-out (on request) with one hour ‘Hawk Walk’ falconry lesson (subject to available times) from €450 Sunday to Thursday (€100 supplement for Friday/Saturday). Opt to extend your midweek to three nights for just €100 extra per room. Offer valid until 30th June 2014. Jazz Dunch is served from 3pm to 6pm and costs €30 per person for three courses, complimentary newspaper and a glass of Prosecco.