Ardmore, Waterford, Ireland
The Cliff House Hotel at Ardmore Bay, Waterford offers sea views from all rooms, Michelin starred dining, a natural rock pool and indoor pool, spa and glorious sea walks from the door
Our review
It would be hard to imagine a better location for a coastal hotel, the building seemingly clinging onto rocks directly above the sea with glorious views from all rooms.
It’s unashamedly modern, perhaps even a little dull from the outside, but that changes as soon as you enter the lobby and take in the sea views through the floor to ceiling windows.
Dry stonewalls made from natural stone – Cupa – are featured throughout the hotel and in all the guestrooms. Most of the 39 rooms have an outside terrace too. Other good news is free, fast Wi-Fi, breakfast included in rates, coffee machines and separate baths and showers in all rooms.
We had a superb Junior Suite. The main colour was a fabulous bright pink. I’ve never seen a room in this colour before. In the bedroom area was a kingsize bed, with superb backlit string art installation above it, chaise longue, flat screen television and gas effect fire. From here was a private terrace. The lounge area had a vibrant pink linen sofa with woollen check armchair and woollen cushions in a quieter lime green. Here also was an inbuilt flat screen television and gas effect fire. Off here was another terrace. Inbetween the two rooms was a small built in library stuffed with interesting hardback books covering cookery, art and fiction.
Attention to detail was obvious. The wardrobe was lined with the pink linen from the sofa and curtains, the shiplap style black timber front door had a brass effect latch and inside, the timber was white with brass fittings. The light switches and power sockets were matt silver. And best of all were those aforementioned Cupa dry stonewalls, carried through to the bathroom.
The bathroom was a sybarite’s dream. The iridescent mosaic pink tiles resembled the lipstick counter at my local department store. There was also a gorgeous egg shape white stone bath, rainforest shower and Anne Semonin toiletries.
We dined in the one-Michelin-starred restaurant. The chef has an aversion to plates. We had piped butter on a stone, salad in a jar, bread and butter in a small sack and our starters were served on some sort of ceramic pavlova looking base. However, the food was, as expected, very good. I had wondered – waiting for one of our courses – why our room was pink. Other rooms are blue and green, to reflect the sea. Then, sitting at our table next to the window, we witnessed the most amazing sunset. Hot pink. The penny dropped.
Breakfast is not a buffet, but a succession of dishes brought to the table – lovely yoghurt and fresh fruit, then a basket of assorted breads and pastries and then a hot choice. This doesn’t suit everyone, but we had no complaints.
Unfortunately we did not have time for the cliff walk, nor an opportunity to slip into the natural rock pool below the hotel or try the spa or hot tub. But this just means we have to visit again, some time very soon, I hope.
Rooms
The Cliff House Hotel offers 39 rooms and suites, all sea-facing and designed with contemporary Irish style. Many feature private balconies or terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, freestanding baths and bespoke Irish artworks, with some suites arranged over two levels for added space and privacy.
Food and Drink
Dining is led by House Restaurant, a Michelin‑starred destination showcasing modern Irish cuisine with a strong focus on local seafood and seasonal produce. The Ocean Restaurant & Bar provides a more relaxed setting for coastal dining, drinks and terrace meals overlooking Ardmore Bay.
Wellness
Wellness facilities centre around The Well by the Sea, an intimate destination spa featuring an infinity-edge swimming pool, sauna, steam room, treatment rooms and outdoor copper baths overlooking the ocean. A small fitness suite supports light training and relaxation.
Facilities
- Destination spa with infinity pool
- Outdoor hot tubs and sea‑view baths
- Michelin‑starred and casual dining restaurants
- Oceanfront bar and terrace
- Fitness centre
- Coastal walking access
- Concierge and personalised service
- On‑site parking
Location
Located on the cliffs above Ardmore Bay in County Waterford, the hotel overlooks the historic fishing village of Ardmore, close to coastal walks, beaches and scenic drives along Ireland’s south‑east coastline.
Getting there
Address: Middle Road, Ardmore, Co. Waterford, Ireland
Arriving by air: Cork Airport – Located 51 miles (83km) – 75 minutes by carWaterford Airport – Located 50 miles (80km) – 70 minutes by carDublin Airport – Located 150 miles (240km) – 2.5 hours by car
More information
To see hotel pictures, for more information on facilities, to check availabilty or to book a stay then please click below
Disclaimer
Paul and Livvy will earn a small commission if you book using the links above. This never affects our review and helps us provide useful information. We endeavour to make our hotel information as accurate as possible but things change over time. For any specific requirements or questions, please always check directly with the hotel before booking. We cannot accept any liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
* Note: The hotel review was last updated in early 2026. Please let us know if you spot any factual errors.