Íragh Tí Connor
Just off the mainstreet in the heart of Ballybunion village lies �ragh T� Connor, a great old nineteenth century guesthouse covered in ivy and sheltered by gardens, with 17 charming guest rooms, a traditional pub and highly regarded restaurant.
�ragh T� Connor Irish for "inheritance of O?Connor," is an apt name for this family run 17 room guesthouse, run by John and Joan O?Connor. Set an Ivy-covered building with an expansive garden tucked away yet in the heart of Ballybunion, �ragh T� Connor feels like an 18th century country house, spacious, airy and exuding old-world charm. All the more impressive to consider the place was gutted by fire in 1999. ?Everything is new, except for the outside walls.? explained John. Everything is meticulous in terms of historic character. John explained the painstaking work required to restore such a place.
The devastating fire provided a starting point for a fresh perspective. Painstaking meticulous work restored �ragh Ti Connor to its original glory, while making improvements much preferred for the modern golfing clients. Like large rooms. The 17 charming guest rooms, spread across two floors, are impressively spacious, each some 450 sq ft in size and expertly decorated with antique furniture. The guesthouse has been expanded threefold.
�ragh T� Connor also offers an elegant restaurant, serving what John O?Connor unabashedly describes as the ?absolute best in town.? Critics seem to agree as the restaurant has earned numerous accolades. Fresh local produce, culinary expertise and flair, and a Baby Grand piano, combine to create a memorable dining experience.
Predictably, much of �ragh T� Connor?s business comes from the golfing trade, mainly Americans. John and the staff know their audience well, delivering superb hospitality, great food and libation in a charming setting.
Before the guesthouse the mainstay of the O?Connor?s business is KillCooley?s Bar, a traditional pub started by John?s parents after returning from the States. ?Its a locals bar,? The pub has a classic feel to it, a pub frequented by locals known for its weekly sessions of music and serving bar food for lunch and dinner, pub grub including fish and chips, burgers and fillets of salmon.
The front garden, complete with picnic tables, provides an ideal setting to sip and savour a fine sunny day.
