Greeting you on arrival, this hotel view is nothing short of stunning and will stay with you long after you depart.
The Cliff House Hotel is located in the scenic surrounds of Ardmore, Waterford and built into the side of a cliff, the boutique five-star hotel is every bit as magical as it sounds.
With just 39 rooms in total, the emphasis here is making sure each guest has a delightful stay and every need, big or small, is looked after.
What sets it apart?
From the complimentary minibar, the built-in Bluetooth speakers and the sea views, the rooms alone include everything you could possibly want for a relaxing weekend away. Special mention for that fact that this might have been the comfiest hotel bed I’ve ever stayed in.
One look at this picturesque hotel view and the stresses and strains of daily life seem distant and suddenly not so insurmountable, while the sound of the ocean lapping against the rocks is instantly soothing.
The treatment rooms in the Well by the Sea feature floor to ceiling windows, again drawing on the magnificent scenery and with signature treatments like Out to Sea, a bespoke facial and body massage, you’ll enjoy 85 minutes of pure unadulterated bliss.
There’s also the infinity edge swimming pool, an outdoor heated jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, couples treatment room and a relaxation terrace. Perfection now that summer has properly arrived and we're finally experiencing warmer temperatures. You could while away a full day here indulging in all the spa has to offer and you know what, I might soon return so I can do just that.
Take five minutes to sit and take it all in, dolphin sightings happen regularly so make the most of the stunning cliffside perch while you can.
What makes it a five-star hotel?
The views, the views.
You really have to see for yourself but the location is truly out of this world. The House Restaurant, where breakfast and dinner are served, looks out to sea and that is luxury at its very best. It holds a Michelin star and four AA Rosettes and after savouring the amuse-bouche, you’ll see exactly why.
The service also deserves a mention, from the maitre d’ to the waiting staff, nothing is too much trouble and every single need is looked after from start to finish. Although the wine I had hoped to order wasn’t on the extensive list, a glass of Sancerre was duly provided again proving what five-star service is all about.
Forget your white roll/brown soda options, carbs are taken to a new level at Cliff House and you’re presented with a choice of bread. In fact, I'd describe it as a bread course, it's that good. As a true bread fiend, I would return again and again just to sample the brioche and of course, the honey, spelt and thyme bread, a carb lover's dream.
The beef tea is the most mouthwatering accompaniment for the beef and the flavours that emerge ensures it will go down as one of my most memorable meals to date.
Note also the petit fours featuring macarons and mini treats that will delight even the most choosy of sweet-toothed diners. Each one is explained in great detail with your choices (pistachio macaron, please) accompanied by an expansive tea and coffee menu.
Why should I go there for my next staycation?
There really is something for everyone and the views are on another level, so much so that I'm coining it the best hotel view in Ireland. Feel free to challenge me on this one.
Outdoor activities include kayaking for those who want to soak up the atmosphere, cliff side walks to relish that fresh sea air and if you’d rather chill out, table tennis, a library with the best views in the building and an impeccable cocktail menu will keep you entertained. In another nod to the impeccable service where every possible need is adhered to, they even provide wellies for your walk.
A kids playroom and interconnecting rooms are available for those who want to bring the smallies but equally, the Cliff House Hotel is a huge hit with couples enjoying some downtime together or newlyweds celebrating a mini-moon break.
It is a true treasure and once you experience it for yourself, you’ll find that it is one of those special places that you’ll return to again and again. If you fancy experiencing it for yourself over the next couple of months, B&B rates range from €299 per night for the rest of the summer.
