It's the little things at the Sheen Falls Lodge that make the difference like the fluffy bath robes, the friendly staff, the log fires and even the Molton Brown toiletries as Mary O'Keeffe learned when she recently took a trip to the five star resort for some mid-summer rejuvenation. Having heard many good things about the Sheen Falls Lodge , when the opportunity arose to take a trip to the five star resort for myself this month I jumped at the chance.

The hotel has always been regarded as one of the most luxurious, decadent and desirable places to take a break from the humdrum of daily life and I was eager to see if it could still really live up to its esteemed reputation. I must admit I was also very intrigued by the hotel's new walking package which includes half a day with an experienced, knowledgeable guide who will take you for a gentle stroll or something more strenuous, depending on your preferred walking pace.

Arriving at the hotel on a misty Thursday afternoon, I could not fail but to be impressed with the hotel's grounds themselves, which despite the bad weather, would still manage to awe even the biggest critic. For anyone who hasn't visited the Sheen Falls, the hotel itself is actually located adjacent to the breathtaking falls and the first thing that truly strikes you when you step out of the car is the fact that the only sound you can hear is that of the falls cascading into the bay.

The interior of the hotel is even more jaw-droppingly gorgeous and it's classical design would appeal to all. Our room, a suite overlooking the falls, was both decadent yet very comfortable and provided the perfect place to relax with a glass of wine and watch the world go by (in one of the Lodge's fluffy bath robes of course).

After taking the time to unpack, check out the hotel's spa facilities and get our bearings on the expansive 300 acre grounds, my guest and I met with the Sheen Falls walking guide Dermot who promised to show us a side of Kenmare we wouldn't otherwise see. And this he certainly did. Just an hour after leaving the hotel we found ourselves overlooking Kenmare Bay from high in the surrounding hills taking in sights of some of the county's rare biodiversity and history- all of which Dermot was only too happy to explain. All in all I must say that while I wouldn't normally opt for a walking tour, this one was one which I was very glad to have taken as Dermot was happy to work with our pace and crammed in as much of the information about the geography of the mountains surrounding Kenmare and of the falls themselves that we sought.

That night my guest and I were treated to what could only be described as a rare and precious culinary experience in the lodge’s beautiful La Cascade restaurant. To say that the menu was appealing to the palette would be far too much of an understatement and all I really could say is that every single item on the menu lived up its mount-watering description with the Irish suckling pig cutlets, the loin of lamb poached in olive oil and especially the chocolate espuma with glazed chocolate cake living up to our high expectations. It must also be said that we were exceptionally impressed with the cellar at the hotel and were delighted to follow all of the recommendation's of the sommelier who truly did recommend the best of wines for each course.

After awakening to the sound of the falls the following morning, I took a second trip to the hotel's spa, this time to try their massage which again did not fail to disappoint. My experienced therapist not only knew how to provide a relaxing experience but, also worked to undo the knots associated with a journalist's often bad posture and leaving the hotel I can honestly say that I felt like a new woman.

It's always said that first impressions are critical and I must say that this is clearly realised at the Sheen Falls as from the moment we left the car right up until we departed on the Friday morning we were greeted and treated to an ultimately five star service which is simply not found everywhere anymore. As for whether I would recommend a trip to the lodge for anyone in the future. The answer is simple. If you can afford a five-star break and want a getaway that you will remember for all the right reasons, the Sheen Falls should be your first port of call.

The Sheen Falls Lodge 'Walk This Way' package which includes half a day walk, two nights accommodation, dinner at the award winning La Cascade restaurant, one full body massage as well as refreshments for walking is € 345 per person. For further information log on to www.sheenfallslodge.ie or call 064-6641600.

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