Once you pull up to Cliff House Hotel, the vibe is distinctively different than southeast Ireland’s ancient castle and manor-like hotel variety. But it isn’t until you step inside the elegantly sleek spot – which is set on the dramatic cliffs of Ireland’s Waterford Coast – and catch a glimpse of the Irish Sea below that you realize how remarkable (and photo-worthy) the boutique hotel is. If you’re in the market to splurge on a dreamy place to rest your head, dine like royalty (minus the rigid formalities), and pamper yourself in a breathtaking spa, Cliff House Hotel does not disappoint.
Located in West Waterford in the seaside village of Ardmore, the sleek and modern hotel is juxtaposed with the stunning historic scenery of Ireland’s Ancient East and makes a solid base for those craving a contemporary stay and no shortage of inspirational, soul-soothing views. The 39-room hotel is full of sun-soaked limestone terraces and features living roofs, white walls, and cupa stone columns throughout. While Cliff House Hotel makes a memorable experience for couples – whether honeymooning or celebrating an anniversary – the hotel is surprisingly family-friendly, with the option of interconnected rooms and service that welcomes children with a smile.
Here’s what you can expect from the much-raved-about Relais & Châteaux property…
The Accommodations
Designed to maximize views, the airy hotel suites and rooms are all facing the never-ending sea, many of which feature a private terrace or balcony that’s well worth the additional cost.
Thoughtfully decorated, the suites feature plush king size beds, massive bathrooms with standalone tubs, and attention-grabbing art by local artists. With bold pink accents throughout – including pink tiling in the spacious shower – my Terrace Suite had a luxurious “Barbie Dream Home” feel in a way that steered clear of being cheesy (yes, truly). Similar suites swap the pink for a bright blue. Families or those seeking more autonomy can opt for the Cliff Cottage, which can comfortably accommodate up to six adults.
Eating And Drinking
The “star” of the show – and one appreciated by travelling foodies – is the hotel’s ocean-facing The House Restaurant (open Tuesday to Saturday), one of only eight Michelin-starred restaurants in Ireland.
Celebrated chef, Martijn Kajuiter, sources as much as possible from Ireland’s land and sea to create dishes that double as works of art. You almost don’t want to deconstruct the thoughtful and creative plating – if it wasn’t for the delicious goodness that satisfies at first bite. The menu is ever changing, but sample menu highlights include things like Bantry Bay Organic Salmon, McCrath’s Black Angus Beef, and Corvina Italian Seabass. The fine dining (but far from stuffy) experience comprises both a tasting menu as well as à la carte options and the choice of a wine pairing (you may as well go all out, in my opinion).
The unpretentious hotel bar is equally as view-filled and features an expansive cocktail and wine menu. The child-friendly Bar Restaurant offers an elevated yet approachable menu of Irish cuisine with a side of views, offering both indoor and terrace seating like the restaurant. Presided over by Chef Kajuiter, the bar menu offers a selection of local meat, veggie and seafood dishes, in addition to a kids menu.
The Spa
It’s slightly tragic to stay at the Cliff House Hotel and not take a visit down to the stunning spa. If you’re in the market to pamper yourself this is definitely the place to do so (trust me).
Offering a pristine spot to decompress, the Well Spa features an impressively designed infinity pool that seems to flow into the sea outside a wall of windows, an outdoor Jacuzzi that overlooks the crashing waves, a steam room, outdoor treatment baths, and soothing treatment rooms. Here, a full range of spa services is available as either half-day or full-day curated experiences, or a la carte. Guests have full use of the general facilities throughout the duration of their spa day – and I recommend you allow yourself enough time to take full advantage of this.
Activities
Cliff House Hotel offers a variety of outdoor wellness-focused activities. Just steps from the hotel – and something that has become somewhat of a rite of passage for hotel guests – is a scenic cliff walk that’s best enjoyed on a clear day and in a borrowed pair of Hunter wellingtons that are available for all hotel guests (it can get muddy). This walk is as history-rich as it is scenic; in addition to memory-ingraining sea views, you’ll find everything from ancient monks’ quarters to watch houses remaining from World War II.
For those seeking day trips, you have options. Whatever you chose, the best way to get around is via car hire companies, which can be coordinated with hotel staff. Through the hotel, guests can book memorable activities to enjoy the water, like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, cliff jumping, snorkelling, whale watching, or power boating.
Other options include hiking, walking, golfing, rock climbing, and cycling. For those who prefer to take in the scenery via bicycle, The Waterford Greenway is a view-filled 46-km off-road cycling and walking trail along an old railway line between Waterford and nearby Dungarvan.
Of course, the history buffs will appreciate ample nearby attractions like the Viking Triangle in Waterford, where the Medieval Museum offers a detailed step back into Ireland’s storied past. Once you step into the Cliff House Hotel, however, you may not want to leave – and that’s completely justifiable too…
A huge thanks to Tourism Ireland and Cliff House Hotel for hosting us on this press trip. As always, reviews and opinions are entirely our own.
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