The reason for my visit was because I was attending Pippa O' Connors Fashion Factory and Solis Lough Eske was the hosting venue. Part of the event was to include Afternoon Tea...not for me I thought, especially not on an occasion where there was 250 other 'normal' guests to feed. I decided to send them off a quick email 2 weeks before the event explaining that I was Coeliac and asking if there was any options expecting to hear that they wouldn't be able to accommodate me on this occasion. To my surprise I was put in touch with the Junior Sous Chef Rodolpho Leonardo who is one of the friendliest, most accommodating men I have ever spoken to. 
Here I was informed that Solis Lough Eske treat any dietary requirements very seriously and try to accommodate everyone as much as possible. They particularly deal with a lot of people with gluten intolerances and for this reason have a wide range of gluten free options available such as scones, breads and deserts. Should you chose to have a meal or stay in the hotel, all their sauces, burgers (gluten free bun requested) and sausages are gluten free. Not only are they gluten free, but they are suitable for Coeliacs, all equipment utilized for the above are specifically used for that purpose only, eliminating the risk of cross contamination. The only problem is that their fryer is of mixed use, meaning that battered and fried food are cooked in the same oil that the chips are. However, if you give enough notice they are happy to put on an extra fryer just for you and can even provide fish and chips. 
The day came and I mentioned it to one of the waiting staff as they were leaving the food at the tables. I couldn't believe it when the waiter came out with a 3 tiered cake stand just for me. This was one of the first times since I was diagnosed that I didn't feel like I was missing out as their was a gluten free alternative to everything that was on the other guests plates. Not only was it gluten free but it is some of the best food I have ever tasted in my life. 
It's hard as a Coeliac to find somewhere that you have 100% confidence in what you are eating and I think for me, I couldn't recommend Solis Lough Eske enough. Their staff are so competent and accommodating and the location is out of this world. It might be a little bit on the expensive side and a trip to save for something special, but you can't put a price on being able to trust what you are eating and knowing that you won't be going home sick that evening. Even just to spend a day there and enjoy an Afternoon tea for two at €50 and a walk around the grounds, you won't regret it. Just remember to email or ring in advance.
For more information visit the website at http://www.solishotels.com/lougheskecastle/
Or for Hotel and Dining Enquiries: +353 74 97 25100 | USA Toll-free telephone: 1-800-370-2069 | reservations.lougheske@solishotels.com
