Lusty Beg Island

Honestly, when I first heard about Lusty Beg Island, I thought someone was pulling my leg with that name – but this little gem tucked away on Boa Island Road is actually one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled onto something special. You know how most hotels feel like, well, hotels? This one doesn’t. It’s got this proper island vibe going on (because it literally is on an island in Lower Lough Erne), and the whole setup feels more like staying at a really nice friend’s place who just happens to have incredible taste and a boat.

Getting there is half the adventure, really – you’ll drive down this winding road through Kesh, and just when you’re wondering if your GPS has lost its mind, you spot the little ferry that takes you across to the island. The staff actually meet you at the mainland jetty, which is a nice touch because let’s be honest, figuring out island logistics when you’re tired from traveling can be a bit much. Once you’re across though, it’s like the rest of the world just… disappears. The accommodations are scattered around the island in these self-catering lodges and chalets that feel properly private – I mean, you’re not hearing your neighbors through thin walls or dealing with corridor noise at all hours. The interiors are done up in this modern but cozy style that actually works (none of that trying-too-hard boutique hotel nonsense), and most places have these big windows that frame the lough views perfectly.

What really gets me about this place is how they’ve managed to feel both remote and completely sorted at the same time. There’s proper WiFi when you need it, the restaurant does solid food with local ingredients (the fish is particularly good, unsurprisingly), and they’ve got activities like kayaking and fishing if you’re into that sort of thing – but they’re not constantly pushing it on you either. The spa treatments are decent too, though honestly, just sitting on your deck watching the water is pretty therapeutic on its own. I’d say the only minor downside is that if you’re someone who needs to pop out for supplies or wants lots of dining options, you’re a bit limited – but that’s kind of the point, isn’t it? The 8.3 rating makes sense to me; it’s the kind of place that does what it sets out to do really well, without trying to be everything to everyone. Best time to visit is probably late spring through early autumn when the weather’s more reliable and you can actually enjoy being outdoors, though I imagine it has a certain moody charm in winter too.