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Irish Examiner
16 hours ago
- Irish Examiner
The stories and secret weapons behind five of Ireland's best B&Bs
For a long time, traditional Irish B&Bs were simply family homes that offered guest rooms. For overseas tourists, they were a way to experience authentic Irish hospitality alongside hosts. For locals, they were a great affordable accommodation option. Well, that's what they were for me and my friends back in their 90s heyday. Back then weekends away didn't involve getting on a Ryanair flight, instead, we'd consult the Golden Pages to pick a town with some good pubs and a nearby B&B. The Bean an tí (woman of the house) was usually dubious upon our arrival and rightly so. We were invariably ready for a night of revelry and I've no doubt we ruined many sheets with make-up and instant tan. But we loved staying in B&Bs. They were a home away from home and there was always the guarantee of a full Irish in the morning, even if it was sometimes served with disapproving looks. In the last few decades, however, tourism has changed. The landscape has evolved and while some of those cherished traditional B&Bs continue to exist, they are dwindling. In their place is a growing new generation of boutique B&Bs. These modern establishments have taken what we've always loved about B&Bs, personal touches, small teams and a strong sense of community, and added their own flair, whether that's through design-led decor or unique food offerings. The charm of these new-wave B&Bs lies not just in the amenities but in the hosts who want their guests to have the best time every stay. This blend of comfort, hospitality and inventiveness marks a new era in Irish B&Bs. Here are five standout stays that are redefining this cherished tradition. The Stop, Galway City Emer Fitzpatrick and Russell Hart in The Stop B&B at Fr Griffin Road in Galway. Photo: Ray Ryan Run by Emer Fitzpatrick and Russell Hart, The Stop in Galway City is a prime example of the modern B&B. Perfectly located on the edge of Galway's buzzy West End, there's a real camaraderie with the local community and Galway's hospitality scene, of which Emer and Russ are very much a part. The couple took over the property from Emer's family in 2004, which had been successfully operating as a traditional B&B. However, Emer and Russ wanted to put their own stamp on the place. They stripped back the decor and added personal touches such as Irish art, textiles, and pieces from their travels. 'Slowly, slowly we've got it to where we are today but it has been a long process,' Emer says. A difference in the modern B&Bs she notes is that the entire house is dedicated to guest use. 'When you arrive at ours we say 'make yourselves at home', it's all for them, it's not our home, the whole house is for the guests to use.' Guests that Emer says, Russell falls in love with. They both agree the people they meet are one of the best parts of the job and a bonus is being invited to different parts of the world. Sounds abound at the The Stop B&B at Fr Griffin Road in Galway. Photo: Ray Ryan They also get lots of music recommendations prompted by the the record player that's always on the go in their uber-cool breakfast room where guests tuck into an ever-changing menu of local and homemade favourites. The staff they've had over the years is probably what they value the most. 'They've made it sustainable for us,' says Russ, 'It might sound corny and cliched but it's really important. It's a little community of people in itself.' Seaclusion, Waterville, Co Kerry Bart & Marie O'Sullivan of Seaclusion Luxury Guest Accommodation in Waterville, Co Kerry. Photo Alan Landers. For Bart and Marie Sullivan, opening a B&B had always been an ambition. 'We love looking after people. I'm a nurse and Bart's a chef and it was always something we wanted to do,' says Marie. When Bart inherited a seaside property in their charming hometown of Waterville, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to open their dream B&B. The proprietors of Seaclusion Luxury Guest Accommodation in Waterville, Co Kerry. Pic: Alan Landers They dove into the planning, research and renovations. Marie had her guests in mind the whole time, thinking about people coming from their own beautiful homes with good showers and beds and wanting to keep that standard. The view from a room in Seaclusion in Waterville, Co Kerry For the interiors, they went with calm colours, blues and greys to 'create a place of tranquillity and bring the sea indoors and to complement what we had on our doorstep'. What the Sullivans offer, Marie believes, reflects modern B&Bs. 'I think people's perceptions of B&Bs are changing. It's not just about having a beautiful house to stay but the size also impacts the personal touch you can offer. 'We're small so the guests get to know us very fast and we get to know them. It makes it a more personalised stay.' Putting the finishing touches to one of their Guest rooms at Seaclusion Luxury Guest Accommodation are Marie & Bart O'Sullivan. Photo Alan Landers. That personalised stay usually includes Marie and Bart helping out with itineraries — they both love showing off South Kerry. Breakfast is also an important feature for them with Bart using lots of local produce. 'That's important to us because when you're supporting local everyone is helping out each other. 'It's a busy job but we love it when someone leaves in the morning and they compliment what they've experienced — that makes it all worthwhile.' Breac House, Dunfanaghy, Co Donegal Breac House in Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal Nestled into a headland in North West Donegal is Breac House, a dark, striking Scandi-style building that's not what usually springs to mind when you think of an Irish B&B. That was sort of the idea, says Niall Campbell, who set up the business with Catherine Burke back in 2017. Catherine Burke and Niall Campbell of Breac House 'We thought there was a role for something slightly different. We wanted to bring a new cohort of people here and showcase different things in terms of location, design, food, service, maybe some things that wouldn't necessarily have been synonymous with B&Bs in the past.' Niall and Catherine stand on the balcony of Breac House. Picture: Ruth Calder-Potts The result is a stunningly design-led place to stay. Clean white walls, lots of timber and oak, touches of texture and colour with plenty of local additions. 'We have a lot of Eddie Doherty tweed, Ulster linen, handmade furniture, crockery and pottery and bits made for us by different makers in the area. Just to give a sense of place, making people feel connected to the area.' Breac House's terrace. Pic: Ruth Calder-Potts Along with design, food is a big passion of theirs. 'We put a huge amount of effort into breakfast. It's modern, local, seasonal and well-designed, and it's the same for our packed lunches.' Although they don't serve dinner, they have in the last few years run some sell-out guest chef dinners with well-known names like Cúán Greene and Ciaran Sweeney and they are currently working on a programme for next year. Sheedy's B&B, Doolin, Co Clare Frank and Marian Sheedy of Sheedy's Doolin. Pic: Brian Arthur A big welcome is par for the course at Sheedy's in Doolin from husband and wife team Frank and Marian Sheedy, 'and our secret weapon is Bertie' she tells me. Bertie is a grey and white, old English sheepdog that Marian credits with winning over every guest that comes through their door: 'He just adds that kind of homely touch to the place.' Frank and Marian Sheedy of Sheedy's Doolin. Pic: Brian Arthur They may have only opened in 2019 but between them, they have extensive hospitality experience, Frank as a chef and Marian as a hotel manager so when they were planning their B&B. 'We knew exactly what we wanted and exactly what the guests wanted and that was how we built it, with the guest in mind.' Marian Sheedy with Bertie the sheepdog. Picture: MrsRedhead Photography Marian focused on creating a relaxed atmosphere, with understated decor, large rooms, and spacious bathrooms. Breakfast was always going to be a stand-out feature thanks to Frank's background as chef. The breakfast spread at Sheedy's B&B. Picture: MrsRedhead Photography They serve a daily changing buffet where Marian says Frank gets to unleash all his creativity. 'It gives a new meaning to the word breakfast. One guest said, what can all the fuss be about breakfast but when he left he said, OK, now I understand.' Marian Sheedy of Sheedy's, Doolin. Pic: Brian Arthur Guests leaving happy has been a big part of their success. 'Word of mouth has been huge for us,' Marian says. 'People go on about social media but word of mouth is absolutely the best recommendation you can get. And I love repeat business — it means you're doing something right.' Pax House, Dingle, Co Kerry Pax House, Dingle, Co. Kerry Owner of Pax House in Dingle John O'Farrell is well versed in listing the things that make Pax House special — starting with the views. 'We've Mother Nature to thank for the views,' he says mentioning the farm below, Dingle Bay and the Ring of Kerry on the far side. 'No matter what the weather, no matter what's happening in your life when you look out there, and you drop your shoulders and relax.' The guests are next on the list — 'We have wonderful guests' — and keeping them happy and relaxed is always the aim. He believes B&Bs can deliver this better than bigger hotels. 'There's less staff and fewer guests. You don't have non-residents coming in and out, you don't feel it's a railway station. You see the same people all the time and it makes the team more approachable.' Breakfast at Pax House, Dingle, Co. Kerry Fewer guests also means there more time for special touches like having fresh cut flowers from the garden in every room. John also praises his dog with lending a hand. 'When you see a few dog toys lying around the place instantly there is that feeling that this is a home, there's no sir and madam and people are walking around checking that everything is perfect.' The beds and breakfast are, of course, top notch but John says it's not just these elements, or him, that makes Pax House, Pax House. 'It's really, a combination of all the little things but especially the guests, the views, the team and the dog. 'We want our guests to go away feeling looked after and thinking 'Wasn't it so nice to stay there?' and that's what it's all about.'
The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
‘Dunnes Stores styling absolutely on trend', says fan as she reveals €45 summer outfit that's perfect for festivals
DUNNES Stores designers have dropped more summer items - and they make the perfect festival look. An Irish shopper has taken to social media to share a look at the new must-have items. 4 A stylish fan has found must-have additions at Dunnes Stores Credit: Instagram/@arlolnyrd 4 The skirt is ideal for many occasions during summer Credit: Dunnes Stores 4 The new waistcoat is perfect for festivals Credit: Dunnes Stores Emer, who posts under the username She revealed the stunning And it's perfect for festivals and outdoor events during Talking to READ MORE ON DUNNES STORES "Soft faux leather fringed cropped waistcoat €15. "Dunnes styling lately absolutely on trend." The Gallery Athena Mesh Skirt is priced at €30 and comes in a gorgeous light baby pink. It comes with an elasticated waist and a comfortable lining, combining comfort and luxury into one. Most read in Fabulous Stores chiefs said this skirt will "bring some individuality to your wardrobe" if you're feeling adventurous. Shoppers can bag it in sizes 8 to 18 in stores only, as it is no longer available to purchase online. Dunnes Stores have new phone case that is dreamy dupe of a luxury brand, perfect for gloss and just €5 The bargain Savida Bailey Tassel Waistcoat is priced at €15, reduced from €30. It is crafted from a high-shine faux leather and boasts a clean, streamlined shape perfect for layering. The waistcoat also comes with all-over tassels, making a fashion statement piece for a Fashion fans can pick it up in sizes XXS to XXL online and in stores nationwide. However, they are warned to act swiftly as sizes XL and XXL are out of stock online. STYLING OPTIONS The stunning midi skirt works perfectly with a simple white square neck vest, white kitten heels and a matching pastel pink shawl for a special occasion. Or Style the beautiful waistcoat with a mini white dress and some black boots for a girlie biker look - perfect for festivals. For a more casual look, pair the top with a box T-shirt, some wide-leg crop jeans, a pair of runners and a tote bag. 4 The whole outfit costs €45 Credit: Instagram/@arlolnyrd THE HISTORY OF DUNNES STORES DUNNES Stores opened its first store on Patrick Street in Cork in 1944 - and it was an instant hit. Shoppers from all over the city rushed to the store to snap up quality clothing at pre-war prices in Ireland's first 'shopping frenzy'. During the excitement, a window was forced in and the police had to be called to help control the crowds hoping to bag founder Ben Dunne's 'Better Value' bargains. Dunnes later opened more stores in the 1950s and began to sell groceries in 1960 - starting with apples and oranges. The retailer said: "Fruit was expensive at the time and Ben Dunne yet again offered Better Value than anyone else in town. "Over time, our food selection has grown and that spirit of good value has remained strong. "Now we offer a wide range of carefully-sourced foods from both local Irish suppliers and overseas." The retailer's first Dublin store opened its doors in 1957 on Henry Street and a super store on South Great Georges Street was unveiled in 1960. They added: "In 1971, our first Northern Irish store opened, and many others soon followed. "Expansion continued in the 1980s in Spain, and later into Scotland and England." Dunnes now has 142 stores and employs 15,000 people.
Irish Examiner
09-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Examiner
Podcast: Inside Ireland's first Bitcoin Conference
Irish Examiner business reporter Emer Walsh recently attended Ireland's first Bitcoin Conference in Dublin. Techbros, pensioners, young parents and even a 'financial astrologer' gathered to discuss how to get rich quick on the unregulated online market. Emer tells Irish Examiner Opinion Editor Deirdre O'Shaughnessy about the paranoia, distrust and far-right conspiracy theories she heard at the conference. She heard what they had to say - but in the end she wasn't orange-pilled. Read More Conspiracies, distrust and 'holding on for dear life': Inside Ireland's largest Bitcoin Conference
Sunday World
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sunday World
‘She has brought happiness into my life' – Dr Tony Holohan weds Ciara Cronin
The couple are off to France for a few weeks of rest and time together 'It was a beautiful day from start to finish,' is how Dr Tony Holohan described his wedding yesterday to Ciara Cronin. 'We were surrounded by our families and closest friends. Ciara has a wonderful relationship with my children, Clodagh and Ronan — so it felt natural that Ronan was our best man and Ciara's sister, Elaine, was our best woman.' The couple tied the knot at the National Maritime Museum in Dún Laoghaire in an intimate ceremony surrounded by family and friends. The bride wore a beautiful floral- patterned silk shift dress by Dolce & Gabbana and carried a bouquet of red roses. The groom looked dapper in a navy suit. Tony Holohan, a medic who became a national figure when serving as chief medical officer during the Covid crisis, and Ciara Cronin, a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, began a relationship in 2023 — two- and-a-half years after the death of his wife Dr Emer Feely. The two doctors were married for more than 20 years, and Emer was diagnosed with multiple myeloma —an incurable cancer — in 2012. In the acknowledgements to his book, We Need To Talk — a book dedicated to 'Emer, Clodagh and Ronan, with love' — he said that he wants 'to tell Emer's story. So much of my career has been very public, but I was never on my own in any of it. Emer was with me through it all.' In the bestselling memoir, he also wrote: 'Ciara has given me the strength, belief and courage to write what I have. She has brought sunshine and happiness into my life, and has done so for Clodagh and Ronan too. I feel blessed and privileged to have her in my life.' One of the many tough conversations he and Emer had in the years between diagnosis and death concerned future relationships. Emer helped me to see myself moving on after her death 'She brought it up maybe half a dozen times over the course of her illness,' he wrote. 'She wanted to hear me say that I was open to the idea of another relationship, and for me to know she hoped this for me. 'We knew how much we loved each other... but she insisted I had to let her express herself. She wanted to talk about her hopes that I would meet somebody and enjoy a future with someone else.' This meant that when he did meet Ciara, the possibility of finding love again had already been considered. Ciara Cronin and Tony Holohan tied the knot at the National Maritime Museum in Dún Laoghaire on Saturday. Photo: Mike Mulcaire 'Emer helped me to see myself moving on after her death by being clear in her wishes for me — and now that I am with Ciara, I feel grateful... 'Telling Clodagh and Ronan was always going to be a sensitive moment — but because Emer had written down her thoughts, and they had read what she had written, I was able to talk to them easily and openly.' The hardship of the pandemic was universal. Within that, every one of us had our own specific challenges. For Tony Holohan, then chief medical officer and chair of Nphet (the National Public Health Emergency Team), these challenges were a mix of the professional and the private. Ciara Cronin and Tony Holohan on their wedding day. Photo: Mike Mulcaire Today's News in 90 Seconds - 09 June 2025 There was the immense responsibility of making huge decisions that affected the well-being and livelihood of the entire country — and then, on a personal level, there was the worry of living with a loved one who was utterly vulnerable. Emer had to isolate completely — even from siblings and parents. Clodagh and Ronan also had to severely limit their social interactions in order to protect her. In fact, every single one of the recommendations made by Nphet — for the country as a whole — were played out within the Holohan family, with the highest possible stakes. More than three years on from the easing of Covid restrictions, there is a brand new chapter in Holohan's life. Following the wedding, the couple are, he says, 'off to France for a few weeks of rest and time together'.
Dublin Live
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Dublin Live
Tony Holohan set to marry Ciara Cronin, finding love again after wife's passing
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Ex-Chief Medical Officer Dr Tony Holohan is set for wedding bells in just a week's time. The familiar face from the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Holohan, has announced his upcoming nuptials with partner Ciara Cronin. The lovebirds started their romance back in 2023, two and a half years following the death of Dr Holohan's wife, Emer, who tragically lost her battle to blood cancer amidst the pandemic in 2012. Dr Holohan took to Instagram to spread the happy news, posting an endearing snap alongside his soon-to-be wife at Dun Laoghaire, captioning it: "One week to go to our big day -I'm so happy that Ciara and I will spend the rest of our lives together." The post was met with a deluge of congratulations from well-wishers. One wrote: "How wonderful, congratulations to you both, wishing you many happy adventures together, good health and happiness." While another added: "Wishing you both every happiness you both deserve this". A third shared: "Wonderful news congratulations to you both. Wishing you both lots of happiness." The dad-of-two, Ronan and Clodagh, has previously opened up about how seamlessly Ciara fitted into their family dynamic. Revealing their relationship to the public in September 2023, Dr Holohan expressed gratitude for what feels like a fresh shot at life ever since they crossed paths, reports the Irish Mirror. He previously opened up about their tight-knit relationship, saying: "She has been very well accepted not just into my own nuclear family if you like, the children, but also the wider families, both Emer's and mine, it has been lovely." Join our Dublin Live breaking news service on WhatsApp. Click this link to receive your daily dose of Dublin Live content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. For all the latest news from Dublin and surrounding areas visit our homepage.
