Roundwood House

Roundwood House Review

As you arrive, you'll note the dreamlike beauty of this chateau-esque mansion set on the slopes of the Slieve Bloom mountains—a dark tree-lined avenue suddenly opens up to reveal a dramatically gorgeous Palladian villa as a flock of white geese, some ducks and hens as well as a friendly dog called Sheridan often form the welcoming party. Antique family portraits of the builders—the Sharps, a prominent Quaker family whose wealth derived from the mid-1600s woolen industry—adorn the walls of the curio-filled drawing room. The bedrooms in the main house are elegant and airy, or opt for cozier chambers in the adjacent 17th-century self-catering accommodation. Tiniest of all is the Cottage, a stone charmer whose original tenants may have been Hansel and Gretel. Affable hosts Hannah and Paddy Flynn often share your table at dinner and if Paddy's guitar is to hand he'll entertain guests with blues or jazz numbers. In 2011 they also started a "supper-theater" where you can enjoy some drama with your food - a winning combination. Attractive deals make this retreat an affordable and unforgettable experience. The house is 5 km (3 mi) from Mountrath on the scenic road to Kinnitty.