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Trip to Co Clare

16/01/2018

Trip to Co Clare

Ah what can I say, Co Clare has always a special place in my heart and especially Miltown Malbay. My Mother’s homeplace, it is always filled with great memories as a child and as an adult.

With it’s rugged coastline and spectacular views, there is something so refreshing and calming about west Clare. 

I was extremley lucky to be invited down to The Armada Hotel and I jumped at the chance to visit once again. The Armada Hotel overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by the beautiful rugged coastline and scenic countryside of County Clare.

I met with my good friend Kieran in Galway and travelled down the scenic route of the wild atlantic way, stopping off in Kinvara for a few pictures.

Arriving in Miltown Malbay we stopped off for lunch at The old bake house restaurant. The staff were extremly friendly and warm and the food was delicious.

Once arriving at the Armada Hotel, we were greeted by Kieran the hotel manager who was extremly pleasant and friendly and instantly I knew the stay would be enjoyable. 

The reception is modern yet has character and resembles features of a ship. 

My room was spectacular and everything I would ever want in a hotel room. It overlooked the Atlantic and the sound of the sea was therapeutic. What a view to have from your hotel room. Simply stunning.

I was spoilt rotten with a hamper of products and items from Clare. From Seaweed to fresh brown bread there was some selection. 

Not only are the rooms breathtaking but the cosy ambience of Johnny burkes bar is a relaxing one. The traditional bar offers everything from craft beer to Irish whiskey and again oozes in character.

The turf fire really gives you a feeling of the true Ireland and you can sit back relax and enjoy the live music in the evenings.

The Food

The Armada offers a few options when it comes to dining.

The Pearl Restaurant has mouth-watering starters and mains and unforgettable atmosphere, ambience and taste. 

The Ocean Bar and Bistro is more of a relaxed dining experience where you can enjoy a drink at the bar while waiting for your table.

Johnny Burkes bar also offers grub again a more relaxed atmosphere enjoyed around the hearth of the log burning fire.

The food at the Armada is superb and fresh. They have their own farm a mile from the hotel. Growing their own vegtables and herbs which goes to show the amount of love they put into their food and the quality and taste. 

Also new to the Armada is brunch served in Johnny Burkes Bar. This is a winner for me. I am such a breakfast person but sometimes when I am away I don’t like to get up to early and brunch begins at 11am.

This was absolutely devine. I had Crushed Avodado with poached eggs and smoked salmon. All refreshed with a berry smoothie with natural yogurt. A winner.

Overall I will be back sooner rather than later. Being two and a half hours from me in Mayo and over an hour from Galway it really is not far for a trip.

My Nanny is also in Miltown Malbay so I love to visit.  

Check out the Armada Hotel it is definitley worth the visit for an unforgetable experience.

Hayley x