Irish eyes are smiling

CASTLEWOOD House in Dingle provides the best welcome in Ireland, according to the readers poll in the Irish Independent travel awards.

Helen and Brian Heaton are no strangers to recognition and awards as Castlewood House ranks among the best that Ireland has to offer. The readers of the Irish Independent put it into words using superlatives to describe their experience as guests of the couple. “Pure class and comfort from start to finish”, they said, characterising Brian and Helen as “gracious, warm, earnest, personal hosts”.

Their welcome is sought after by travel-weary guests who emerge refreshed after their stay. “When walking in for the first time, Helen greets you with warmth and authentic joy,” one reader said. “It’s a soothing welcome after a long day of travel.”

Helen places a lot of emphasis on welcoming people “You get three seconds to make a first impression,” she said. “The first thing is to make eye contact, and have a big, genuine smile. Then we’d offer them a drink, and a scone or a bit of cake.

To add to the Best Welcome award, Castlewood house have also been shortlisted for the Georgina Campbell Best Breakfast Award.