Liss Ard Estate in Skibbereen, Co Cork, is delighted to become a member of the prestigious family of landmark Relais & Châteaux properties, just the seventh property in Ireland, and one of only ten new member hotels and the only Irish hotel added to the worldwide association this year.
Established in 1954, Relais & Châteaux is an association of more than 580 landmark hotels and restaurants operated by independent owners who share a passion for authenticity in countless extraordinary destinations.
With member properties in 67 countries – from the Napa Valley vineyards and French Provence to the beaches of the Indian Ocean, from snow-covered high mountain chalets, country houses surrounded by vineyards, gourmet restaurants in the heart of major cities, villas overlooking the sea or perched on the banks of a romantic lake, what makes Relais & Châteaux properties special is both their sheer diversity and their uniqueness. Defined by the values it shares with its members throughout the world, Relais & Châteaux is about authenticity and excellence — in food, in experience, and in culture.
Relais & Châteaux said: “Liss Ard Estate epitomises the enchantment of the Irish countryside. Surrounded by a lush, 163-acre estate, this elegant, Georgian-style mansion is prized for the beauty of its natural surroundings.” Relais & Châteaux also mention the bright, fresh guest rooms with their generous natural light, furnished in modern country style, and the award-winning Garden restaurant, with its menu featuring in-season ingredients, including vegetables grown in Liss Ard Estate’s own organic vegetable garden.”
“During your stay,” continues the entry on new member Liss Ard Estate by Relais & Châteaux, “you can choose to stroll along paths lined with cypresses and century-old Lebanese cedars, go kayaking or stand-up paddle-boarding on the serene waters of the private lake, or join an outdoor yoga class followed by a relaxing massage at the wellness centre. The hotel also offers guests a nearly metaphysical experience with its Sky Garden: a giant earth-and-stone crater lined with emerald grass, the work of landscape artist James Turrell, that beckons you to contemplate the heavens and the unique sensation of the earth and sky changing places. This property is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way, going deep within the untamed landscapes of the Irish coast.”
“We are delighted that Liss Ard Estate is officially a member of Relais & Châteaux and to represent such a distinguished membership in our beautiful corner of West Cork,” said Liss Ard Estate General Manager, Alexi Argyris. “It’s fantastic for each team member who made this possible with their incredible work and commitment. It has been a dream to have Liss Ard Estate be part of the Relais & Châteaux family and we are proud to join our sister property in Burgundy, the historic Abbaye de la Bussière, as a member of this prestigious family. We look forward to welcoming guests and showcasing our unique setting, excellent local cuisine and the warmest Irish welcome to guests from near and far through our Relais & Châteaux membership.”
