DUNLUCE LODGE UNVEILS AUTUMN SERIES OF FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCES

 DUNLUCE LODGE UNVEILS AUTUMN SERIES OF FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCES

Wine Vault

 

-Award-winning Executive Head Chef Stephen Holland puts the flavours of Northern Ireland centre stage at the five-star Portrush retreat-

 

Food lovers looking for an excuse to escape to the North Coast of Ireland this autumn can add Dunluce Lodge in Portrush to their diary, as the five-star hotel unveils a trio of special food and wine experiences celebrating exceptional local produce, international wines and some of the region’s finest culinary talent.

The intimate 35-suite Dunluce Lodge, overlooking the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and close to Whiterocks Beach, has quickly established itself as one of Northern Ireland’s most exciting luxury food destinations. At the heart of its culinary offering is Executive Head Chef Stephen Holland, who was named Chef of the Year at the Licensed & Catering News Awards 2026 recently.

 

Holland’s cooking is firmly rooted in the landscape around him, with menus changing with the seasons and drawing heavily on produce from Northern Ireland’s farms, fields and surrounding Atlantic waters.

“We are incredibly fortunate here on the North Coast because so much of what we need comes directly from nature’s pantry,” says Stephen Holland. “The landscape, the sea and the seasons really dictate how we cook. For me, it is about taking wonderful produce, treating it with respect and allowing those natural flavours to speak for themselves. These autumn events give us a great opportunity to celebrate that produce while also introducing our guests to some exceptional wines, ports and fellow food producers.”

The autumn programme begins on Thursday, 24th September with The Xanadu Wine, Dine & Stay Experience, bringing a taste of Western Australia’s celebrated Margaret River wine region to Portrush.  Darren Rathbone, CEO and Chief Winemaker of Xanadu, will travel to Dunluce Lodge for the evening, joining guests for a four-course dinner created by Stephen Holland and his team, with each course paired with a selection of Xanadu wines. Darren will talk guests through the wines, their provenance and the winemaking philosophy behind them throughout dinner.

 

The evening begins with a drink’s reception at 6pm followed by dinner at 7pm. The overnight experience includes accommodation in a luxury suite, the four-course wine dinner, full Irish breakfast, access to The Spa, The Larder at Dunluce and complimentary local transfers on request. Prices start from £575 per room based on two people sharing.

 

Next comes an evening devoted entirely to the North Coast. On Sunday, 18th October, Dunluce Lodge will host Taste Causeway at Dunluce Lodge, a special culinary collaboration between Stephen Holland and renowned chef, broadcaster and food writer, Paula McIntyre MBE.

 

The two chefs will come together to create a bespoke four-course menu celebrating the extraordinary produce available through the Taste Causeway network and across the surrounding region.  The event reflects Dunluce Lodge’s year-round commitment to working with local growers, fishermen, farmers, food producers and artisans. The hotel’s menus are built around seasonal availability, with the kitchen seeking out ingredients that tell a story about the place in which guests are dining.

For food lovers, the October dinner will offer an opportunity to experience two leading Northern Irish culinary talents working side by side, interpreting the produce of the Causeway Coast through a sophisticated four-course dinner in Bailiú Restaurant.

The Taste Causeway overnight experience is priced from £395 per room based on two people sharing and includes a welcome refreshment, four-course dinner, overnight accommodation in a luxury suite, full Irish breakfast, access to The Spa, The Larder at Dunluce and complimentary local transfers on request.

 

Completing the autumn programme on Thursday, 19th November is the Churchill’s Port Dinner & Luxury Stay, an evening combining Stephen Holland’s cooking with a specially curated selection of ports from Churchill’s.

Hosted by Ben Himowitz, Co-CEO of Churchill’s Port, the dinner will take guests through the heritage and craftsmanship behind the renowned port house, with four courses designed by Holland and individually paired with Churchill’s Ports.

The evening begins with a drink’s reception at 6pm, with dinner served at 7pm. The overnight package starts from £445 per room based on two people sharing and includes the four-course paired dinner, luxury suite accommodation, full Irish breakfast, access to The Spa, The Larder at Dunluce and complimentary local transfers on request.

 

The autumn series further strengthens Dunluce Lodge’s growing reputation as a destination where food forms an integral part of the overall guest experience. The hotel’s restaurant champions the produce of Northern Ireland’s land and sea, while its intimate Wine Vault, private dining spaces and seasonal culinary experiences have been designed to encourage guests to linger over great food and wine.

Since opening in 2025, the five-star property has rapidly made its mark on the Irish luxury hospitality landscape, earning a series of awards and prestigious affiliations. Dunluce Lodge is also a member of Ireland’s Blue Book and Good Food Ireland, further underlining its focus on Irish hospitality, provenance and quality.

 

Situated along the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route, Dunluce Lodge offers just 35 individually designed suites and enjoys an enviable setting overlooking Royal Portrush, with the Atlantic coastline and some of Northern Ireland’s most celebrated natural attractions on its doorstep. Its smaller scale allows the hotel to offer a highly personal style of hospitality, with food, wine and locally sourced produce central to the experience.

Advance booking is essential for all three autumn culinary experiences.  For reservations and further information, telephone +44 (0) 28 705 31 700 or email reservations@dunlucelodge.com.  For more see www.dunlucelodge.com

 

The Art of a Summer Escape: Discover Golf, Coastal Adventure and Refined Luxury at Dunluce Lodge

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The Art of a Summer Escape: Discover Golf, Coastal Adventure and Refined Luxury at Dunluce Lodge

Restaurant at Dunluce

As the last rays of summer continue to shine then consider that it’s not too late to book a final getaway.  There are destinations that invite you to visit, and then there are places that invite you to linger. Perched above the wild beauty of Northern Ireland's celebrated Causeway Coast, Dunluce Lodge in Portrush is a place that make you never want to leave, a place where luxury feels effortless, landscapes are cinematic and every experience is carefully curated to connect guests with one of the world's most captivating coastlines.

 

Dunluce Lodge offers travellers a sophisticated base from which to explore a region rich in natural wonder, world-class golf, exceptional food and authentic local culture. Overlooking the Atlantic and neighbouring the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club, the intimate luxury retreat brings together contemporary elegance and a profound sense of place.

 

At Dunluce Lodge guests can enjoy breakfast overlooking rolling links and sea views before setting out to discover the many treasures of the Causeway Coast. For some, that means a round on one of the world's most celebrated golf courses. For others, it may be a private coastal tour, a scenic hike along dramatic clifftops or an exploration of hidden beaches and historic landmarks. 

 

The region's spectacular scenery provides a constant backdrop. From the ancient basalt formations of the Giant's Causeway to the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle, every turn reveals another extraordinary vista.

Food plays a central role in the Dunluce Lodge experience. Summer menus celebrate the abundance of Northern Ireland's land and sea, showcasing exceptional local ingredients prepared with creativity and precision. Freshly landed seafood, seasonal produce and carefully selected wines create memorable dining moments that linger long after the final course.

 

At Dunluce Lodge, dining is never just a meal, it’s an experience. The Restaurant at Dunluce Lodge showcases summer menus which provide a culinary experience like no other using the finest seasonal produce sourced from neighbourhood suppliers, including delicious fish fresh from the ocean, expertly selected wines and whiskeys distilled within just a few miles. The Vault offers a unique and intimate experience for connoisseurs of fine spirits and wines. Step into the cellar, where dim lighting creates an atmosphere of old-world charm and sophistication.

 

For golf enthusiasts, access to Royal Portrush remains one of the region's great attractions. Yet even for those who never set foot on a fairway, the sweeping landscapes, coastal atmosphere and understated sophistication of Dunluce Lodge provide ample reason to stay.

 

For travellers seeking a destination that combines extraordinary natural beauty with refined hospitality and unforgettable experiences, Dunluce Lodge presents a compelling invitation. This is a place to play, explore, indulge and reconnect, a summer escape defined by luxury, discovery and the timeless allure of the Causeway Coast.

 

The ‘Luxury for Longer’ package includes a complimentary welcome refreshment on arrival, two nights in a luxurious suite, full Irish Breakfast, access to The Spa and gym and treats from The Larder at Dunluce, a curated collection of the North Coast's finest flavours, including snacks and beverages.  From £270 per room per night.

Dunluce Lodge, Dunluce Road, Portrush, BT56 8NB. For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700

 

Five-Star Dunluce Lodge Scoops Another Major International Accolade

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Five-Star Dunluce Lodge Scoops Another Major International Accolade

Fresh off the back of Executive Chef Stephen Holland being crowned ‘Chef of the Year’ at the prestigious Licensed & Catering News (LCN) Awards 2026, the accolades continue for Dunluce Lodge, with the five-star property now being named Best Luxury New Hotel in Ireland 2026 by the internationally renowned ‘Luxury Lifestyle Awards’.

 

The latest honour is

Dining at Dunluce Lodge. Sensational Experience. Stunning Location.

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Dining at Dunluce Lodge. 

Sensational Experience. Stunning Location.

 

Just one year after opening its doors, Dunluce Lodge in Portrush, Co. Antrim has firmly established itself as one of Ireland’s most distinguished luxury hospitality destinations. In a remarkable first year, the 35-bedroom, five-star property has earned a series of accolades and prestigious affiliations, positioning it among the world’s finest boutique hotels. Yet beyond its luxurious surroundings and dramatic coastal setting, it is the dining experience that truly defines a stay here.

Located along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route and just moments from Whiterocks Beach via a private walkway, Dunluce Lodge offers a rare sense of calm in one of Ireland’s most striking landscapes. Evenings unfold slowly, cocktails by the fire, freshly shucked oysters at the bar, the Atlantic fading into dusk.

 

At Dunluce Lodge, food is central to the story. Under the direction of Executive Head Chef Stephen Holland (pictured), the culinary team delivers a highly refined expression of Northern Ireland’s natural larder, supported by impeccable, intuitive service.

At the heart of the experience is The Restaurant at Dunluce Lodge, where Holland’s menus are shaped by seasonality, sustainability and close relationships with local farmers, fishermen and artisan producers. A Tyrone native, Holland’s culinary journey began at just thirteen, inspired by his mother Patricia and his great aunt Kathleen, whose love of cooking sparked his lifelong passion. His career has since spanned the globe, including time working with celebrity chef, Rick Stein and cooking for distinguished guests such as Queen Elizabeth II, before returning home with a clear vision: to champion the produce of Northern Ireland.

 

“The Causeway Coast offers an incredible natural pantry,” says Holland. “Our aim is to give diners a true taste of this place and celebrate its rich bounty by working with exceptional local producers and allowing those ingredients to shine.”

That philosophy is evident in every dish. Co Down oysters on offer are pristine and briny, lifted with Burren balsamic horseradish vinegar and lemon. Kilkeel crab and mussel salad, finished with a delicate fennel and dulse pickle.

Seafood is a constant thread throughout the menu. Grilled local fish is paired with sweet brown shrimp, samphire and a sharp lemon and bay vinegar. Halibut is elevated with crayfish, samphire and radish while hake is served with charred leek, potato and leek pavé and a robust XO sauce. Each dish is rooted in both technical precision and a strong sense of place.

 

For meat lovers, provenance is paramount. The standout 400g bone-in sirloin of Lisdergan beef is a celebration of Northern Ireland’s exceptional farming, served simply with a rich red wine jus to allow the quality of the meat to come through. Elsewhere, Lisdergan flax-fed beef fillet is complemented by braised beef cheek and fine herb stock, while Eccelgreens pork is paired with Armagh apple butter and preserved fennel, further reflecting the kitchen’s commitment to sourcing local pork.

Beyond the main restaurant, Dunluce Lodge offers a variety of distinctive dining experiences. The Bar provides a relaxed yet refined setting for all-day dining, where expertly crafted cocktails, fine Irish spirits and a carefully considered menu create an atmosphere that blends elegance with warmth.

 

The Vault offers a more intimate and atmospheric experience. This elegant cellar space, with its soft lighting and sense of old-world charm, is home to an exceptional collection of wines and premium whiskeys. The extensive wine list has been thoughtfully curated, featuring both classic and contemporary producers from across the globe, while the whiskey selection showcases the very best of Ireland alongside rare international finds.  The great big table in the centre is perfect for private dining or a special occasion for an intimate group.

 

Dining at Dunluce Lodge extends beyond the plate. Guests can experience chef’s table evenings, whiskey and oyster pairings, and seasonal tasting menus inspired by the Causeway Coast, as well as foraging walks with the culinary team.

Ultimately, dining at Dunluce Lodge is about more than exceptional food—it is about provenance, storytelling and a profound sense of place. Here, every ingredient has a source, every dish has a purpose, and every meal offers a true and memorable taste of the Causeway Coast. Food stories from the edge of the world where the dramatic coastline plunges into the sea.  A great story told one plate at a time, one bite at a time.

For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700.

Dunluce Lodge Celebrates First Anniversary with Major Industry Recognition and Global Prestige

press release 

Dunluce Lodge Celebrates First Anniversary with Major Industry Recognition and Global Prestige

 

Just one year after opening its doors, Dunluce Lodge in Portrush, Northern Ireland, has firmly established itself as one of Ireland’s most distinguished luxury hospitality destinations. In a remarkable first year of operation, the five-star property has achieved a series of accolades and prestigious affiliations that position it among the very finest boutique hotels in the world.

 

Among the hotel’s most notable honours is the Georgina Campbell Award, one of Ireland’s most respected and influential recognitions in the hospitality industry. The Georgina Campbell Guides are widely regarded as the gold standard for independent hospitality assessment in Ireland, celebrating excellence in hotels, restaurants and guest experiences. Receiving this award within its first year is a powerful endorsement of Dunluce Lodge’s exceptional service, refined design, and outstanding guest experience.

 

Further cementing its international reputation, Dunluce Lodge has also been accepted into the globally renowned Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) portfolio. Membership in SLH is highly selective, with each property undergoing rigorous evaluation to ensure it meets the organisation’s exacting standards for quality, individuality and luxury. Inclusion signals that Dunluce Lodge is recognised on the global stage as a property delivering world-class luxury and bespoke hospitality. Adding to its growing list of distinctions, Dunluce Lodge has also become a member of Ireland’s Blue Book, a prestigious collection of the country’s most exceptional hotels, country houses, castles and restaurants. Membership is by invitation and represents a commitment to authentic Irish hospitality, outstanding culinary standards, and a distinctive sense of place.

 

Located on the spectacular North Antrim Coast, near the legendary Royal Portrush Golf Club, Dunluce Lodge has quickly become a destination for discerning travellers from around the world. The hotel’s proximity to one of golf’s most celebrated links courses has also made it a favourite among visiting players and fans of the sport.

 

In 2025, global golfing star Rory McIlroy chose Dunluce Lodge as his home during the The Open, staying at the property with his family while competing in the tournament at nearby Royal Portrush. His visit further highlighted the hotel’s appeal to international guests seeking privacy, luxury and a world-class location along one of the most scenic coastlines in Europe.

 

Over the past year, Dunluce Lodge has distinguished itself through its combination of understated luxury, exceptional cuisine, and warm, personalised service. With its intimate scale, refined interiors and dramatic coastal setting, the hotel offers guests an experience that blends contemporary elegance with the rich heritage of Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast.

 

Commenting on the hotel’s first anniversary, General Manager Stephen Meldrew said, “Reaching our first anniversary is a proud moment for everyone at Dunluce Lodge. From the beginning, our ambition was to create something truly special on the Causeway Coast — a hotel that combines world-class luxury with the warmth and authenticity of Irish hospitality. To receive recognition such as the Georgina Campbell Award, to be welcomed into Small Luxury Hotels of the World, and to join Ireland’s Blue Book within our first year is an incredible honour for the entire team.”

 

As Dunluce Lodge celebrates its first anniversary, these achievements reflect both the vision behind the property and the dedication of its team in delivering an exceptional guest experience from day one and they look forward to welcoming guests from across Ireland and from around the world.

Dunluce Lodge, Dunluce Road, Portrush, BT56 8NB. For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700

 

MUM’S THE WORD AT DUNLUCE LODGE!

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MUM’S THE WORD AT DUNLUCE LODGE!

 

Give the gift of breathtaking beauty, indulgent pampering, and timeless memories this Mother’s Day at Dunluce Lodge in Portrush, perched along Northern Ireland’s dramatic north coast. From the awe-inspiring cliffs and Atlantic waves to the historic allure of Dunluce Castle and the legendary Giant’s Causeway, every moment here is a celebration of life’s finer pleasures.

Overnight Escape - Step into a world of serene luxury. An overnight stay at Dunluce Lodge offers elegantly appointed rooms with sumptuous bedding, stunning vistas across the sea, the gardens and Royal Portrush Golf Course.  Let her wake to the soft sound of waves and the scent of the sea in the air (From £310 B&B per room per night).

 

Spa Indulgence - From rejuvenating massages to bespoke therapies designed to restore mind, body, and soul, Dunluce Lodge’s spa experience is an invitation to indulge in serenity. Located in quiet building separate from the hotel, the intimate spa offers guests an opportunity to completely retreat from the world. 

 

Divine Lunch or Exquisite Dinner - Celebrate her with a culinary experience to remember. Whether it’s an elegant afternoon tea, lunch showcasing the finest local ingredients or an elegant dinner crafted with sophistication and flair, each meal is a feast for the senses and is always a real treat.

 

Flexible Gift Vouchers - Dunluce Lodge vouchers allow the recipient to pick what they would like to enjoy themselves—from an overnight escape to a spa treatment or a signature dining experience.

Every detail at Dunluce Lodge, from the sweeping coastal views to the exquisite interior comforts, reflects a commitment to creating unforgettable moments.

Perched beside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and just a few hundred metres from the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Lodge is one of Northern Ireland’s most luxurious and intimate five-star hotels. Opened just a year ago, the elegant property comprises 35 suites and a private residence, The Stookan, blending understated luxury, warm Irish hospitality and a spectacular coastal setting.

Dunluce Lodge, Dunluce Road, Portrush, BT56 8NB. For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700

 

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Dunluce Lodge on the Causeway Coast Launches Restorative and Immersive ‘Sleepcation’ 

 

Winter asks more from the body than we often realise. With shorter days and reduced natural light, our circadian rhythm — the internal clock that regulates sleep, energy and hormone production — begins to shift. This can affect everything from alertness and mood to melatonin release at night, leaving many people feeling more tired, sluggish, sad or mentally foggy.

 

Sometimes the finest luxuries cannot rival the impact of a truly great night’s sleep. Problems feel less overwhelming, perspective returns and the day ahead becomes brighter after deep, uninterrupted rest. Acknowledging winter’s slower rhythm — and the body’s instinctive need for more sleep — is often the first step toward restoring balance.

 

Responding to this, Dunluce Lodge has launched its restorative and immersive ‘Sleepcation’, a stay designed entirely around rest, relaxation and deep sleep.

Perched beside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and just a few hundred metres from the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Lodge is Northern Ireland’s newest five-star retreat and one of its most intimate. Opened just a year ago, the elegant property comprises 35 suites and a private residence, The Stookan, blending understated luxury, warm Irish hospitality and a spectacular coastal setting into a refined escape designed for complete relaxation.

The Dunluce Lodge Sleepcation is a fully immersive experience centred on restorative rest. The stay includes an overnight escape, breakfast, a signature spa treatment, calming sleep tea and a curated bedtime wellness offering, with amenities including a Seabody Sleep Balm and a carefully considered night-time ritual designed to help guests fully switch off and unwind. (?580 per room for two people sharing).

 

At its heart is the sleep experience itself. Guests settle into ultra-comfortable Hypnos, handmade beds layered with natural fibres and cashmere guard duvets and Cheviot wool pillows by local brand, Ava Innes, chosen for their gentle weight and natural temperature regulation.  The brand pioneers a unique, sustainable duvet fill made from cashmere guard hair — a forgotten luxury fibre offering gentle weight, exceptional temperature regulation and a sleep experience grounded in natural wellbeing.

Outside, the only sound is the Atlantic rolling steadily onto the shore, while inside the Lodge, a deep quiet settles after dusk. A short bedtime story inspired by local folklore — tales of giants and heroes such as Finn McCumhaill — is left on each bed as part of the turndown ritual, encouraging guests to disconnect from screens and return to the simple comfort of reading before sleeping.

 

The woodland spa plays a central role in the experience. The Drift & Dream Ritual by Seabody begins with grounding breathwork, followed by a personalised massage using warm Lavendar poultices, aromatherapy oil and finished with Seabody’s brand-new Sleep Balm. Stretching, lymphatic drainage and gentle acupressure guide the body into deep relaxation, preparing both body and mind for rest.

 

Dining at Dunluce Lodge complements the experience, with Executive Chef Stephen Holland and his team showcasing the best of the region’s seasonal produce through thoughtful, locally inspired menus. Evenings unfold slowly — cocktails by the fire, oysters at the bar or watching the last light fade into the Atlantic — before retreating to suites where comfort, stillness and the rhythm of the sea take over.

 

Located along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route and moments from Whiterocks Beach via a private walkway, the Lodge offers a rare sense of calm in one of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes, within easy reach of landmarks such as the Giant’s Causeway.

The Dunluce Lodge Sleepcation ultimately pays homage to the restorative power of sleep, embracing the rituals, environment and natural elements that support true rest. By bringing together sea air, silence, natural fibres and a slower pace of living, Dunluce Lodge invites guests to reconnect with their natural rhythms and rediscover the transformative power of deep, uninterrupted sleep. 

Dunluce Lodge, Dunluce Road, Portrush, BT56 8NB

 

For more see www.dunluce.com or call +44 (0) 28 705 31 700

A LOVE STORY AT DUNLUCE LODGE

 A LOVE STORY AT DUNLUCE LODGE

 

-Dunluce Lodge, Portrush, County Antrim, Northern Ireland-

The restaurant

 

Dunluce Lodge is Northern Ireland’s newest independent five-star hotel, an intimate coastal retreat perched beside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush and overlooking the Atlantic on the edge of the seaside town of Portrush in County Antrim. With just thirty-five suites, it is the most refined place to stay along this dramatic coastline, offering a calm, residential atmosphere where privacy, romance and quiet luxury define the experience.

 

This Valentine’s, the Dunluce Lodge Luxury Valentine’s Retreat offers couples an elegant escape on the Causeway Coast, priced from £425 per couple sharing. The experience includes an overnight stay in a luxurious suite, a four-course dinner with a glass of bubbles, breakfast the following morning, and access to the spa facilities — a refined celebration of time together, designed for couples to relax, reconnect and slow the pace.

 

The Valentine’s experience is thoughtfully curated from arrival to departure. Guests are welcomed with a refreshment before settling into their suite, ahead of an evening that unfolds with a four-course dinner celebrating seasonal, local produce. After a restful night’s sleep, morning begins with a beautifully prepared breakfast and time to unwind in the spa’s steam room and gym. Each suite also features The Larder, a curated selection of north coast treats, while evening turndown includes handcrafted chocolates from The Chocolate Manor.

The lodge’s spa and fitness suite add another layer of calm, with treatments using Sea Body and Natura Bissé products inspired by the sea and the elements, while complimentary local transfers make it easy to explore nearby.

 

Affiliated with Small Luxury Hotels of the World and a member of Ireland’s Blue Book, Dunluce Lodge blends contemporary design with warm, assured hospitality. Interiors are serene and beautifully detailed, while the public spaces — including the restaurant, bar, private dining rooms and atmospheric vault — look out across the dunes and sea, creating a setting that moves naturally from relaxed days into softly lit evenings.

Dunluce Lodge is ideally positioned for discovering the Causeway Coast, a region celebrated for its extraordinary natural beauty, from sweeping beaches and cliff walks to the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the historic village of Bushmills. Bespoke local experiences and guided excursions can be arranged, allowing guests to explore at their own pace.At Dunluce Lodge, luxury is quiet, personal and deeply connected to place — an ideal setting for a love story - where the landscape, the light and the atmosphere do the rest.

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