2 Best Hotels in Leenane, Connemara and County Mayo

In the heart of what is arguably Connemara's most spectacular mountain and lake scenery, 13 km (8 miles) north of Leenane off R335, this historic Georgian sporting lodge heavily stocked with fishing paraphernalia has a lovely lakeside setting. Fishing is the main attraction, but guests also come for the peace and quiet, or like England's Prince Charles, to sketch the scenery. Victorian antique furniture, floral curtains, and wonderfully comfortable beds fill the bright, spacious bedrooms, some with lake views. TV presence is minimal: there's one in the snooker room. Guests dine together ($$$$) at a long oak table; there's an excellent wine list and a self-service bar. There are also cottages (one with TV), which require a three-day minimum stay.

Built in the 1790s at the entrance to Leenane village as a coaching inn, this hotel is only separated from Killary Fjord by the main road. Nearly all the bedrooms have a magical view, and it is worth waking at first light to savor the fjord in the early-morning mist. You may have to share that view, as this is a popular touring base among both Irish and overseas visitors, with its busy bar and a pleasantly old-fashioned hotel restaurant serving a three-course dinner. Local rack of Connemara lamb and salmon from the fjord usually feature on the menu. The residents' lounge recalls a previous era, with its assorted shabby-chic chairs and sofas. The biggest treat here, especially after a day in the open, is the seaweed baths (also bookable by non-guests), in which you share a tub of heated saltwater with a bucket full of freshly picked seaweed. The bigger guest rooms are in the newest wing.

Check the website for good dinner-B&B deals.