2008 Award Winners HIDEAWAY OF THE YEAR 2008

Coxtown Manor

Everybody loves this welcoming late Georgian house which is just a short drive from the county town, yet quietly set in its own parkland in a lovely, peaceful area close to Donegal Bay. Belgian proprietor, Edward Dewael - who fell for the property some years ago and has gradually upgraded it  - personally ensures that everything possible is done to make guests feel at home, which they invariably do, immediately: the difficulty is in leaving this delightful place.

Open fires and comfort are the signatures of the main public areas – a relaxed drawing room, a cosy wood-panelled bar and conservatory – and bedrooms, which have something for everyone depending whether you go mainly for character (in the old house, some with open fireplaces - turf, firelighters and matches supplied!) or space (very generous newer rooms, with huge bathrooms).

But the dining room - which is mainly for residents and, like the food served here, attractive yet not too formal - is the real heart of the house. The produce is mostly local, and of superb quality (scallops from Donegal Bay, clams and mussels from Lissadell, Thornhill duck and local Charolais beef) but the style is Belgian, offering a different experience from other dining options in the area – and, of course, lots of Belgian chocolate treats on the dessert menu.

There’s also a sense of discovery about this lovely place, which adds something special to the atmosphere.