Located in a wild and unspoilt valley of extraordinary beauty, the 1000-acre Delphi Estate is one of Ireland’s hidden treasures. The historic lodge, famous as a holiday hideaway for both princes and paupers, is surrounded by the tallest mountains in Connemara and overlooks a pretty lake.

The 13-bedroom historic lodge is open for individual bookings from mid-March to mid-October. Most people stay for 2 nights for the full Delphi experience. From October to February, Delphi Lodge is open for exclusive bookings, and is well suited for house parties, corporate retreats, and intimate weddings.

The bedrooms are charmingly furnished. Downstairs there are fine reception rooms include a cosy and eclectic library, a billiards room and a large drawing room overlooking the lake. The gardens are extensive and informal, with fine old trees, masses of flowering shrubs and a delightful river walk.

The food at Delphi Lodge is highly praised with delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners that make full use of local seafood, salmon, lamb, game and other fresh produce from the area. There is a great wine list, featuring over 200 fairly-priced wines. For workaholics, there is internet access via a guest computer and WiFi. Although mobile phone coverage is patchy due to the mountains, there are landline telephones in all rooms and phone charges are modest.

Formerly the sporting lodge of the Marquis of Sligo, Delphi is wonderfully secluded, yet within easy reach of beautiful sandy beaches, championship golf courses, horse riding and all the sights of Connemara and Mayo.

Delphi is unique as it is not a hotel - it has no room service, TVs or a la carte menus. It is a private country house of great charm, stylish yet informal, sophisticated yet relaxing.