Reader recommendation: An unforgettable stay at Coolefield House in Ireland

IRELAND

We just returned from a holiday in County Cork, during which we spent three fabulous nights at Coolefield House, a dairy farm owned by Michael and Pamela Thornton. The accommodations in the Thorntons’ Georgian-style home were comfortable and spotless, and the price of the room included a made-to-order breakfast. Michael even took us to a typical Irish pub, where we drank Guinness and mingled with the locals. The dairy farm and its 70 cows are within an hour’s drive of Blarney, the Ring of Kerry, Killarney, etc. Free Wi-Fi. The Thorntons and their children live on the third floor, so they are always on hand. One week after we returned home, they called me to say how much they enjoyed getting to know us all. In other words, you arrive as guests, but leave as family and friends. An unforgettable experience.

Coolefield House, Drishanbeg, Millstreet, County Cork, 011-353-29-70765, www.coolefieldhouse.ie. About $70 a night per person, double occupancy; $75 for a single. Includes breakfast.

Rosemary Chiaverini

Sherman Oaks