The Italian phrase al fresco originally meant “in the cool air,” but with the many outdoor dining options available at Ireland's Blue Book's, it can only mean “cool!” Here are 10 places visitors can enjoy al fresco dining.

1. Bushmills Inn, Co. Antrim

Guests can enjoy light lunch in the garden courtyard, or linger in the hotel's indoor nooks and crannies. Set in an enviable location a stone's throw from the Royal Portrush Golf Club, Old Bushmills Distillery, The Giant's Causeway and Dunluce Castle.

2. Enniscoe House, Co. Mayo

In a setting on the shores of Lough Conn, with attractive view of the lake across the parkland, guests can soak up the sun with Afternoon Tea in the restored Victorian walled garden.

3. Hayfield Manor, Cork

Guests can enjoy an afternoon in the sun-filled enclosed gardens or summer terrace at Cork city's doorstep, with a brand new summer lunch menu throughout June, July and August.

4. The King Sitric, Co. Dublin

Guests feast on local seafood like lobster, crab and shrimp set in the picturesque fishing village of Howth, with its panoramic sea views and leisurely strolling along Howth pier.

5. Ice House, Co. Mayo

Fresh seafood and locally-sourced foods make al fresco dining a pleasure in this restaurant perched on the banks of Ballina's salmon estuary, overlooking the River Moy.

6. The Duck Restaurant at Marlfield House, Co. Wexford

The Duck Terrace Restaurant & Café is located in restored courtyard buildings including a coach house, potting shed and gardener's tool shed. The restaurant is located in a long stone building with French doors opening onto a sandstone terrace that overlooks the abundant kitchen garden and blooming rose garden. 

7. Park Hotel Kenmare, Co. Kerry

Stylish, informal dining with food by some of Ireland's great chefs in the lovely gardens of the new The Terrace Bistro, a contemporary yet elegant space overlooking the glistening Kenmare Bay.

8. The Tap Room at Rathmullan House, Co. Donegal

Guests relax with the finest Milanese pizza from the outdoor wood-fired pizza oven, along with Irish craft beer, along the shores of the Lough Swilly.

9. Tankardstown House, Co. Meath

Tucked behind the Main House is the “Garden Village” where dining takes place in the 2AA Rosette Restaurant Brabazon. For more casual fare and Afternoon Tea, the Cellar offers al fresco dining by the fountain.

10. Wineport Lodge, Co. Westmeath

From its beginnings as a restaurant in 1993 to the lodge that grew around it, foodies enjoy the reputation of the Wineport Lodge's bright, hearty dishes with uninterrupted lake views.

With beautiful settings, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and drinks served al fresco, Ireland's Blue Book's idyllic locations can only enhance the dining experience.

Dining outdoors enhances the appetite.

About Ireland's Blue Book

Ireland's Blue Book is a unique collection of Irish Country House Hotels, Georgian Manor Houses, Stately Castles, Luxury Boutique Hotels and Designer Lodges, and Michelin-star Restaurants representing the finest of Ireland's hospitality, accommodations and cuisine. Activities range from golf, fishing, spas, area tours, horseback riding and cookery schools to relaxation in warm and comfortable surroundings.