GLASSDRUMMAN LODGE, ANNALONG, CO. DOWN, NORTHERN IRELAND
LOCATION: Northeast Ireland, 7 miles south of Royal County Down NEARBY GOLF COURSES: The lodge is just 7 miles from Royal County Down, one of the World's greatest golf courses. Malone Golf Club, an excellent parkland course is within an hour drive, while the Northeast's two other great courses - Portstewart and Royal Portrush are both about 2½ hours drive. Glassdrumman is about 2½ hours from Dublin so playing the likes of The Island, Baltray (County Louth), Royal Dublin, Portmarnock and The K Club is also feasible.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: The surrounding countryside of County Down, with the Mourne Mountain Range, is truly one of Ireland's most picturesque areas. Silent Valley, Spelga Dam, Tollymore Forest and the nearby seaside town of Newcastle are all well worth a visit. The famous Giants Causeway in County Antrim is 2½ hours from Glassdrumman Lodge and is a truly spectacular sight.
Glassdrumman Lodge, which always offers a warm Irish welcome, is situated in the heart of County Down's dramatically beautiful landscape, where "The Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea".
This small but sophisticated and luxurious country house offers a fine view of the sea. The philosophy of owners, Graeme and Joan Hall, is that of 'simple elegance' - a very apt description of the property. Dinner is served either at a long pine table, where one can get to know other guests, many of whom are golfers, or at private tables.
The ambitious cuisine at Glassdrumman is highly acclaimed and is produced from a variety of local ingredients, many of which are grown on the Lodge farm.
The service at Glassdrumman is excellent and the staff could not possibly work harder to make their guests feel comfortable. Glassdrumman Lodge certainly comes highly recommended.
ROOMS: 10 tastefully furnished en-suite bedrooms, including 2 suites, complete with all modern comforts. All guestrooms offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and mountains.