After a whirlwind year, one of West Cork’s landmark hotels is getting ready to celebrate a new beginning.
By BRIAN MOORE
AFTER a whirlwind year, one of West Cork’s landmark hotels is getting ready to celebrate a new beginning.
The historic Eldon Hotel on Bridge Street in the heart of Skibbereen, which was brought back to life by local couple Eileen and Mike O’Donovan, was of course famous for its Victorian elegance, impeccable service and as the location of Michael Collins’ last meal.
‘We bought the Eldon exactly one year ago and have spent the time restoring the building, refurbishing the rooms and turning the Eldon into a beautiful destination boutique hotel,’ Eileen told The Southern Star.
‘We began by creating a new bar and restaurant, a sun room and a secluded walled-garden. Today we have 15, totally refurbished, kingsize and family rooms and we will be adding more before the end of the year.’
Eileen explained that it is especially important for herself and her family that they deliver a level of service that is beyond what is expected by those choosing to stay with them or to enjoy their food, our drink or the entertainment at the Eldon Hotel.
‘We source all the ingredients for our restaurant here in Skibbereen,’ Eileen said. Our fresh fish is landed daily only a few miles away and we ensure that all our meat and vegetables is delivered to us from no more than 20 miles away. It’s all about supporting the local community.’
However, the Eldon’s support for local businesses doesn’t stop with the best food West Cork has to offer. ‘We also made sure that we sourced all of the beautiful soft furnishings for our new rooms from businesses within Skibbereen,’ explained Eileen.
With the newly refurbished rooms already welcoming guest from far and wide, the Eldon is celebrating its first anniversary in style with a special mega-room sale from €59 per room, per night, for the month of June.
‘Our hotel is an ideal base to explore West Cork and the Wild Atlantic Way,’ Elieen said. ‘We have delicious local food and drink, regular music nights, and our elegant king-size and family rooms are all ready to make the Eldon your home from home in West Cork.’
