A popular Galway hotel, nestled in the wilds of Connemara, has been described as the most scenic hotel in the entire country by a UK reviewer.
And better still, the view from the remote hotel is 'one to beat' for the entire globe as the majestic scenery surrounding Ballynahinch Castle, Recess, Co Galway blew Nicola Brady of the UK Independent away.
The area is described as "one of the wildest landscapes in Ireland" as the author fawns poetically over its "bulbous mountains, mirror-flat lakes and rolling hills thick with heather and gorse".
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And at the heart of this otherworldly beauty is the 19th-century Ballynahinch Castle overlooking the pristine clear of the lough for which the castle is named.
The UK Independent outlined that there are walking trails all over the estate each offering a view as arresting as the last. And the author rates the stunning castle itself as amongst the best of the best and suggests the perfect spot to spy the incredible structure and its wild backdrop.
The glowing article nudges readers to behold the castle from across Ballynahinch Lake along the Owenmore River to see the castle rise from its reflection on the still waters like a spectral palace.
This view also affords the castle a perfect backdrop with the unmistakable Twelve Bens lingering behind. General Manager Enda Walsh told Extra that the staff and owners were "absolutely delighted" to be acknowledged in a such a fashion.
And it's not just the view that impressed the UK Independent's travel expert. Barry was also quick to praise the food on offer under what she considers "one of the best chefs in Ireland" in Danni Barry.
The reviewer also touts another unbuyable charm that pours from the Ballynahinch Castle and its grounds - rich history. The site has housed weary travellers since the Martin family opened a coach house in 1756.
Ballynahinch Castle itself was built in 1813. One of its most famous occupants was 'Humanity Dick'. Richard Martin was an MP who founded the RSPCA and was instrumental in passing the first laws concerning animal cruelty in the world.
The Great Emancipator, Daniel O'Connell was guest of Ballynahinch Castle. Prince Ranjitsinhji Maharajah of Nawanager bought the castle in 1933 after being blown away by its beauty and its stunning surrounds while a guest of the Berridge family in 1924.
Ranjitsinhji built a series of 72 stone piers along the river from which guests and locals could explore the unique area and these remain usable to this day.
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