Delphi Lodge situated in the heart of Delphi Valley....Co. Mayo

My wife Yvonne and I were fortunate to receive an invitation to stay at Delphi Lodge. Below is a concise overview along with photographs from our visit to the Lodge.

Built in the 1830s by the Marquis of Sligo as a private sporting lodge focused on salmon fishing and hunting, Delphi Lodge, situated in Connemara, County Galway, is a historic Georgian country house. It has hosted royalty and dignitaries, and it continues to be a premier, secluded destination for fishing and guest accommodations today. Key Historical Points: 1830s Origin: The lodge was founded in the 1830s by the Marquis of Sligo, who named it "Delphi" because of its similarity to the Greek valley. Sporting Estate: For over 120 years, it served as a private retreat for the Sligo family and their guests, earning acclaim in the 19th century for its outstanding fishing prospects. The lodge has welcomed notable figures, including King Edward VII in 1903 and, more recently, Prince Charles. The 1849 Famine Tragedy: In 1849, the lodge gained infamy as the location where starving locals seeking famine relief were refused help by officials who had moved from Louisburgh to the lodge, leading to the Doolough Tragedy. Modern Era: Acquired by Peter Mantle in the 1980s, it was restored and now operates as a luxury guest house that specializes in fishing holidays, renowned for its "house party" atmosphere. Presently, the 13-bedroom lodge is surrounded by mountains and remains a popular site for fishing, encompassing a 4,000-acre estate.

Fishing at Delphi...

World-class fishing occurs from February to August. The fly is paramount, and the sole method is with a rod. There is even a hand-tied Silver Delphi fly. This fluffy creation is a favorite among salmon, seatrout, and brown trout. Anglers cast from the nearby banks into the Bundorragha River or venture out to the adjacent Lodge lake of Finn Lough. The lakes and rivers of Delphi Valley encircle Delphi Lodge. The Delphi Valley comprises three breathtaking lakes: Glencullen, Doolough, and Finn Lough, which flow into the Bundorragha River and subsequently into Killary Fjord. The spring-fed lakes yield crystal-clear waters around the Lodge, facilitating the spotting of salmon or trout from the boat. Hatcheries have been established at Delphi since the 1880s. A significant fishery operation for wild salmon and sea trout is located behind the main manor house adjacent to the walking trail. Conservation and ecology are held in high regard. While fishing for wild salmon, guests adhere to a Catch and Release system, except when it is an angler’s first-ever salmon. The number of fishing rods is restricted to 12 per day, with a limit of 8 in February.  

More than 60,000 native trees and plants have been introduced at the Delphi Estate through a comprehensive native woodland scheme. These planting primarily focus on areas surrounding nursery and spawning grounds to enhance biodiversity, stabilise riverbanks, and improve the food source for salmon and sea trout.

The fishing seasons are from February to March for spring salmon (3.6-5.45 kg); June to July for the smaller and plentiful grisle (1.6-3.5 kg); and July to September for sea trout (0.22-1.3 kg) and some salmon. Four charming Boathouse Cottages situated in the grounds of Delphi Lodge provide self-catering accommodations and can accommodate up to 4-5 guests in each cottage. Delphi’s Fly-Fishing School is operated by resident instructor Teddy Coulter. Instruction is available for durations ranging from a half day to several days. 

Features at Delphi...

Delphi Lodge offers 13 spacious and traditionally designed bedrooms, along with comfortable accommodation in the Lakeview Premier Suites. Additionally, Delphi presents opportunities for walking, cycling and shooting. A large library provides an excellent place to unwind with a good book in front of a cozy open fire. Broadband access, meeting rooms, a snooker room and a gift shop are just a few of the numerous attractions available at Delphi Lodge. Several historically significant sites, including Doolough Valley, are situated within a 20-minute drive from the Lodge. Catering for small weddings and shooting parties can be made effortlessly. Returning guests appreciate daily walks through the woodlands, which feature vibrant fuchsia, orchids, and yellow gorse. Jackets and Wellies are essential at Delphi Lodge, which epitomises pure tranquility. The information booklet for Delphi Lodge advises…Please ensure that all gates are securely closed, as the sheep tend to consume everything. In case of global conflicts or sporting emergencies, there is indeed one television available in the snooker room. The essence of Irish humour still remains lively at Delphi Lodge.

Dinner at Delphi...

As the sun sets over Delphi Valley, guests are drawn to the front library. With drinks in hand, everyone congregates around the inviting fire. Eventually, Mary, the delightful Maitre D’ and Customer Relations Manager, presents canapés, and the discussions flourish. Guests enter the dining room and admire the elegant place settings at the antique oak "Big Table." A centerpiece of garden flowers enhances the atmosphere. The culinary team gathers seasonal ingredients such as wild garlic, elderberry, and wild rose to enrich the evening's dishes. A chef’s garden is situated at the rear of the manor. The chefs are more than happy to cater to vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian preferences. As each of the six courses is served, the room fills with voices that resonate up to the ceiling. Strangers transform into friends, and Delphi feels like a family of kindred Connemara spirits. A guest from Limerick sighs and remarks, "Time stops here." After dinner, guests transition to the drawing room, relaxing around the open fire while enjoying savory appetiser with tea and coffee. Some engage in card games. In the morning, a full made-to-order Irish breakfast is

offered.