The Old Convent

The Old Convent Review

A wonderfully tucked-away sanctuary—it began life as a prim-and-proper, 19th-century convent set amid spectacular vistas of the Knockmealdown Mountains—this retreat has been tastefully restored by Christine and Dermot Gannon. His well-established credentials as one of Ireland's most innovative chefs are lovingly displayed in the restaurant. His special skills in fusing Irish and Far Eastern tastes result in winners like 20-hour, slow-cooked Goodherdsmen organic beef; mozzarella popover with smoked salmon; and organic lemon-and-ginger sorbet, all offered on eight-course tasting menus. Upstairs, Georgian-style marble tiles in the hallways, living rooms in restful shades of gray and fawn, glittering chandeliers, and bold-hue accent pillows and original artworks lend life to the Victorian manse. Bedrooms have antique furniture, silk curtains, and large bathrooms. Book in advance, as The Old Convent lies almost equidistant from Cahir and Lismore, attracting overnighters from both popular destinations.