Fodor's Expert Review Carrig Country House

A rambling two-story Victorian house covered in flowering creepers and set on 4 acres of lush gardens along the secluded shore of Caragh Lake on Kerry's Wild Atlantic Way, this comes pretty close to most people's dream rural retreat. The atmosphere is more grand country house than hotel, with turf fires in the main salons. Guest rooms are lavishly decorated with period antiques ranging from cozy-cottage style to ornate Victorian. In addition to enjoying views over the gardens, the lake, and surrounding mountains, you can also hear the lake water lapping the shore from most rooms. Boating and fishing are available. Chef Patricia Teahan presents a tempting menu that features a tasting plate of local oysters and mussels as well as the famously tasty and succulent mountain-herb-fed Kerry lamb.