Ballyvolane House
Set on an expansive garden and woodland estate in the rural beauty of the East Cork countryside, Ballyvolane House is a historic Irish country home with 6 guest rooms providing luxury accommodation, dining and salmon fishing on the River Blackwater.
Ballyvolane is a classic big house. Built in 1728 and, over the years, painstakingly maintained and renovated, Ballyvolane exudes a sense of luxury and old-world ambiance, with a style that mixes classic Georgian and Italian renaissance. But the atmosphere is relaxed, friendly and comfortable, thanks to Justin Green and his wife Jenny. The Greens are are consummate hosts, showing you to your room and explaining the house's many quirks and charms. Like no locks on the doors. Or the honors bar, stocked with top notch whiskeys, tasty beers and enticing wines by the glass.
There's a warmth and life about the Ballyvolane, from the rugby ball in the grass to old cat snoring away in the chair. Ballyvolane's six guest rooms are spacious, individually furnished, tastefully decorated. All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms, some with beautiful big antique baths, as well as televisions, tea/coffee making facilities, and a selection of books and magazines to amuse and entertain.
Like many country homes of its class, Ballyvolane's location sets it apart. Ballvolane House is surrounded by formal terraced gardens, originally laid out when the house was built in the early 18th century. Beyond the gardens are ancient trees, parkland, lakes and mountains, beckoning in the distance. In this idyllic setting a wide variety of wildlife thrive.
Ballyvolane enjoy access to six miles of private salmon fishing on the River Blackwater, renowned for its run of wild salmon. Should the salmon not be running, the lakes of Ballyvolane estate anglers are well stocked with trout, further enhancing angling opportunities.
Guests to Ballyvolane House, dinners are highly recommended. The food is straightforward country-house style, simple and wholesome, with ingredients sourced from specialist local producers, organic and whenever possible taken from Ballyvolane's walled garden. Ballyvolane is blessed with being surrounded by some of the richest agricultural land in Ireland. The seasonal menu is set according to availability, but will invariably feature locally produced salmon, duck, lamb and beef. Dinner is served around a large table, creating the convivial atmosphere of a house party. Menus vary by season and weather conditions. If you are lucky you will experience a dinner of wild salmon!
Staying at Ballyvolane House is a bit of a splurge. But then Ballyvolane is one of Ireland's great heritage homes, something of a living museum in constant need of upkeep. And the Justin and Jenny Green, who have impeccable credentials in the hospitality industry prior to returning to Ballyvolane, will ensure your experience will be a fabulous one. Fine food, friendly hospitality in an exceptional setting: Ballyvolane is one of life's great pleasures! Ballyvolane House is one of the great country houses of Ireland, a place that exudes relaxation and friendly charm.
