Fodor's Expert Review Kilbrogan House
Kilbrogan Hill, Bandon, Co. Cork, Ireland
Editor's Note: This location is no longer in operation.
At the highest point of a rural market town between Kinsale and Clonakilty, this house has been the community's architectural star since it was built in 1818, and makes a peaceful base that's good for touring but off the beaten tourist trail. Owner Catherine FitzMaurice spent 12 years restoring Kilbrogan House to its Georgian splendor, and now runs it with her brother, David. The ornate plasterwork could easily grace a much larger country mansion as could the elaborate flying staircase. Large windows afford garden views and bring streams of sunlight into the spacious rooms, which are furnished with well-selected antiques, original art, and handmade rugs over polished wood floors. An open fireplace warms the breakfast rooms in colder weather, and the flower-filled conservatory glows with sun on clear days.
PROS
- a haven of civilized style
- out of the way
- off-street parking
CONS
- not much nightlife in town
- limited restaurant scene in town