Stayed at Carrickmourne House for 2 nights. Julie, the owner, makes the place. She is very friendly, helpful and full of information about the area. You'll feel like you're staying in a friend's home. May not be a good choice for anyone who is just getting used to driving on the left, signage on Irish roads and maneuvering on narrow, back roads--particular concerns when you drive into the nearby town for dinner in the evening. One nit: due to locations of electrical sockets and mirrors in our room, it was difficult to dry and style my hair. Thank goodness there's a mirror app for iPhones!

It's a little off the beaten path, but it's such a wonderful place; it's worth the visit. Julie the owner is so nice and so helpful. Her breakfasts are great. And the room my friend and I shared was perfect. The grounds are gorgeous with all the flowers and grass and that was the view from our room. And on top of all that, the price was right. We had absolutely no complaints and wish the hotels we stayed in could measure up. It's a perfect spot to get to the Jerpoint Abbey and then into Thomastown and into Kilkenny. Be sure to eat your dinner before you get there, though Julie is not opposed to you bringing food in and eating in the breakfast room. Don't go to the nearby golf club, food is not good at all; didn't get to try any place in Thomastown, though.