Fodor's Expert Review Cliff at Lyons

The team from the celebrated Cliff House in Ardmore have brought their modern Irish style to bear at this carefully restored tiny village of 18th-century buildings in the rolling Kildare countryside, a half hour from Dublin. The rose-clad structures, set in an old country estate, have been transformed into a hotel, apartments, and cottages all individually decorated. Rooms in the Majors and Stables buildings set around the central pond are more modern while the cottages are more homey and characterful. The beautiful grounds along the banks of the Grand Canal are perfect for a romantic walk or bike ride (bikes are available), and the high-end spa in a restored Carriage House offers luxurious, botanical-themed organic treatments.