Catch some rays in one of the sunny southeast’s best hotels

Though temperatures are hardly tropical, Wexford, Carlow, Waterford and Kilkenny is known as the sunny southeast to Irish people. Traditionally an area where many from the capital and along the east coast would spend their holidays, these four counties certainly do buzz with holidaymakers in summer, and there’s nothing quite like enjoying an ice-cream on Rosslare beach, taking a stroll around the Marble City (Kilkenny), or doing a bit of surfing in Tramore on a warm summer day.

A great road system makes this corner of Ireland imminently reachable, and you can be enjoying the warm climate in less than an hour and a half from Dublin Airport. If you’ve got a car, we’d recommend taking a trip down the coast from Arklow in South Wicklow, stopping in some of the small historical hamlets along the way. The area has a long and checkered history which includes Norman invasions, numerous castle settlements, tall seafaring tales and rebellions, and you’re bound to stumble upon a small pub or B&B where you can stay for the night.

Though Cork and Kerry on the west coast are the two Irish counties which come to mind when you think of beaches, history, holidays and sights, the southeast certainly rivals it for all of this and more, and with Rosslare Europort, you can take a ferry from Wales or France directly into the heart of the action. We’ve decided to put together a list of great hotels in the area should you wish to travel around and sample some local hospitality.

Kelly’s of Rosslare

A tradition in one of Ireland’s prettiest seaside villages, for four generations Kelly’s has been a family run hotel, synonymous with luxury accommodation, and staff that really care about your stay. Set literally on Rosslare beach, Kelly’s offer fine dining, a luxury spa and the very best that Irish tourism has to offer.

Ferrycarrig Hotel

On the approach to Wexford town from the north, you’ll pass through the small area of Ferrycarrig. A mere crossroad on a very busy national route, you’d be forgiven for simply admiring the view for a second, and passing by. However, to do so would be to miss another of Ireland’s great hotels. Set beside the Ferrycarrig National Heritage Park, below the roadway and on the river Slaney, the four star hotel is mere minutes from the thriving centre of Wexford, but feels like miles away. One of the main wedding destinations in south Leinster, you’ll also enjoy a fine meal in the hotel’s Reed Restaurant on the riverfront.

Mount Wolseley

Carlow’s premier hotel is set in the countryside, just one hour from Dublin city. The hotel stands on its own 18 hole championship golf course, designed by Christy O’Connor Jnr. and other striking features include the sanctuary spa, and the well equipped leisure club. You are a small hop to Carlow town’s restaurants, pubs and nightlife, and if you wish to spend a relaxing night in the hotel, Fredericks Restaurant and the usual post dinner entertainment will ensure a good night.

Faithlegg House

An 18th century mansion in the countryside which has been beautifully restored to form the centre piece of a superb four star hotel and golf course in Waterford, Faithlegg is old style luxury. Located near to the Ballyhack ferry across from Wexford, and 20 minutes from Waterford city, the house boasts an award winning restaurant, comfortable bar and lounge areas, a magnificent 18 hole golf course and self catering options too. Do take a walk around the historic grounds if you’re interested in nature too.

Mount Juliet

An award winning luxury hotel in Thomastown Co. Kilkenny, Mount Juliet is more midlands than southeast, but we’ll make an exception! Set within 1500 acres of lush gardens and woodland, you are but 20 minutes from the city, but once you enter the gates of the estate it will feel like another world. Mount Juliet House itself is a magnificent Georgian mansion overlooking the River Nore, which was once home to the Earl of Carrick. You’ll find an 18 hole golf course, beautiful spa and fine dining, as well plenty of opportunities to get away from it all with a walk among nature. There’s also an on site equestrian centre, and Mount Juliet is the perfect base to explore locally.

words by Shane O’Leary