On a recent road trip through Ireland, we booked a night’s accommodation at the delightful Armada Hotel at Spanish Point in County Clare. Our one regret was that we didn’t book two nights and vowed on our next trip, we definitely will. If you’re travelling the Wild Atlantic Way or just meandering through County Clare, it definitely should be on your list.
From the moment we entered our Seascape Suite we knew we were in for a treat. A floor to ceiling panoramic view greeted us overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. I immediately was drawn to the gorgeous free standing bath, and I can tell you, nothing feels more luxurious than sipping on a glass of champagne while taking a bath and watching the ocean. I felt like I didn’t have a care in the world. Seeing the waves crashing on Spanish Point beach, or the surfers braving the cold water was truly mesmerising.
Dragging myself away from the bath, I readied myself for a pre-dinner drink in the Ocean Bar. We sat at the bar and watched the expert cocktail maker mix drinks and dry fruit for the next day’s cocktails. The drinks list was extensive but she offered to make something that wasn’t on the menu which suited our tastes.
Finishing our cocktails, we were due to dine in Aileen’s, their fine dining restaurant, but being mid week it wasn’t open as there weren’t many guests staying in-house. However, they offered the same menu in the Pearl dining area and the food was among some of the best dining experiences on this trip. The Armada Hotel showcases fresh sustainable produce from the local area, and even has their own farm a few kilometres away to draw ingredients from.
After a lovely, lazy evening of cocktails, delicious food, and a brilliant Espresso Martini to end with, we returned to our room to find two mini bottles of Baileys and a chocolate waiting for us which was a lovely touch.
The next morning we chose to have our breakfast in the room to take full advantage of the room before check out. The breakfast included freshly baked pastries and croissants, and a full Irish breakfast with eggs cooked the way you like them.
With a well-appointed cocktail bar, fine dining restaurant and Johnny Burkes the on site pub, you really don’t need to leave, so settle in for a couple of nights and enjoy all the Armada Hotel has to offer. I know we will definitely be extending our stay next time.
