GOURMET BOLTHOLES for your next staycation

Immerse yourself in traditional island life with IRELAND’s a sophisticated twist in the smallest of Aran Islands or sink into the comfort of a 16th-century COTSWOLDS lodge with hearty fare

INIS MEÁIN

Rugged cliffs, windswept beaches and dishes inspired by the wild Atlantic – Inis Meáin is the essence of ‘remote escape’, lying on the smallest of the Aran Islands. Here, Ruairí and MarieThérèse de Blacam harness the natural elements to serve up a taste of a traditional Irish isle. Like its stone exterior, its fourcourse menu takes inspiration from the landscape, curated by island produce, changing nightly. Everything from this kitchen, armed with a Michelin Green Star, is as fresh as it gets, from hand-gathered sea urchins, wild lobster, homestead-reared meat and veg from the kitchen garden. Dishes like scallop tartare with toasted hazelnuts or periwinkle with wild garlic are light, modern and designed to satisfy big appetites, all sampled beside an uninterrupted ocean panorama.

After the apple crumble, curl up with a copy of JM Synge’s The Aran Islands by the wood burner in the Connemara Suite or take in the views of Galway Bay from one of four Burren Suites. All have granite hues, minimalist decor and homely touches courtesy of Inis Meáin Knitting Co.

Enjoy breakfast in bed – eggs from the hotel’s own hens and bread straight out of the oven – before exploring the Dún Conor stone forts, hiking to Synge’s Chair or strolling along the Atlantic shoreline. You’ll find everything you need in your Exploration Kit, from bikes to fishing rods, and with a bit of Irish luck, Ruairí will serve up your catch for dinner. JM. Suites from £928 for a two-night stay including breakfast. 00 353 86 826 6026, inismeain.com

Clockwise from top left: stone exterior of Ineis Meáin; the restaurant; island crab is served; one of the elegant rooms; The Lamb Inn; it has a classic country inn vibe; with French and British favourites