Lough Erne Resort

Lough Erne Resort Review

County Fermanagh and, in particular, the Lough Erne Resort was thrust into the international media spotlight in June 2013 when this sumptuous five-star hotel, set between two serene lakes on the small island of Ely, hosted the annual G8 summit of world leaders. What those power brokers experienced was a special property with a country-house feel in a mix of reconstituted sandstone and Danish timber. The lodges come with kitchenettes and guarantee privacy, while the handsome guest rooms have an appealing warmth. The headliner is the 18-hole Faldo Course, designed by the touring pro Nick Faldo, but a Thai spa and pool are among the other delights. The Faldo Academy offers residential "stay and play" packages (prices start at £230 B&B per night - does not include dinner). Diners can enjoy loin of Fermangh lamb with dauphinoise potatoes as done by one of Ireland's most celebrated chefs, Noel McMeel, at the elegant Catalina restaurant, or head for the Halfway House, secreted in a log cabin behind the 9th green and offering lighter bites. If you don't opt for the two 18-hole championship golf courses, an affable gillie, Packie Trotter, is happy to show you the tricks of casting with flies.