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  • Savor the flavor of a great romantic getaway! Perfectly designed menus for our full breakfasts, candlelight dinners, gourmet picnics, and arrival night lite dinners thrill the sophsticated and simple palatte alike! Fireside breakfast in bed is the all-time favorite!
    The Inn's decor has been dubbed "Comfortable Opulence". The distinctly Countryside English flavor, coupled with the best of comforts makes a welcome retreat for even the most discriminating traveler. The finest mattress makes it feel as good as it looks.
    The Hot-Stone-Therapy BODY WORKS sessions are the ideal complement to your Irish Hollow visit. World-class therapists integrate the best therapies from around the world into personalized session ranging from 75 minutes to 2 hours. You absolutely need this!
    The luscious Private Garden at the French Maid's Cottage blooms frpm Spring through Autumn with Galena Countryside flowers. The newly renovated cottage has become the favorite spot for the perfect Romantic Getaway in Galena.... more than a bed and breakfast... more than you can imagine!
    Fields of Sunflowers, pumpkins and corn surround the Inn and hail the Harvest Season. Great packages througtout the fall feature the Seven-Course Autumn Harvest Candlelight Dinner for two, and Horse-Drawn Buggy Rides on the Inn's Old Railway trail for Midweek visitors. Irish Hollow is Autumn!
    The Gardener's Cottage is absolutely delicious! Every comfort has been attended to. THe spectacular fireplace is seen from the bedroom, living room and is open to the spa tub in the luxurious bathroom. Huge double shower room, screened porch and overstuffed everything make your stay here the rejuvenation that you so need. (We contend that reality is for those who can't be at Irish Hollow on a full-time basis!)
    The New York Times calls Irish Hollow "Deliciously Rustic". The Inn was once a stop on the Great Western Railway. Irish Hollow is famous for it's dining and popularity for Romantic Getaway. The "Country Gourmet" fare has met rave reviews by the Chicago SunTimes, Midwest Living Magazine, Country Living Magazine, and chosen as the most romantic lodging/dining establishment by Glamour Magazine. The Full Country Gourmet Breakfast, Seasonal Dinners, Perfect Picnics, Extravagent Bakery and warm comfortable setting will keep you coming back for more!
    This place is crazy cozy!
    The tranquility... along with the option of great outdoor activity puts Irish Hollow at the top of the list for ideal ways to reconnect with yourself, each other and nature! The organic experience begins on arrival, follows you through each of the lavish meals and sleeps you in perfect comfort each night! time to get to Irish Hollow!!
    Bathroom wood-burning fireplaces crackle next to the Spa Tubs in both the Gardener's and the Station House Cottages.
    The morning sun is glowing through the winter mist at the Inn at Irish Hollow beckoning guests to enjoy the the new fallen snow. The best way on the planet to spend a Winter morning... or ANY morning!
    Spectacular bathroom with heated spa-tub deck, multi-head shower room, tub-side wood burning fireplace and beautiful decor and amenities are just part of the allure of the Cottages at Irish Hollow.
    Picture you and the afternoon, spending time together here! Let us pamper you with gorgeous meals, massage, a perfect setting and plenty of nothing.
    Irish Hollow is a favorite of Winter enthusiasts. There are miles of cross-country ski paths right on the Inn's 500-acre estate and continue onto the contiguous 1500-acre preserve. Enjoy Winter hiking, snowshoeing and downhill skiing (at Chestnut Mountain 3 miles from the Inn) are perfect midwinter day. A gorgeous stew, delicious wine and a crackling fire await your return to your Cottage at nightfall.
    The Stonewood Cottage might be the best thing that ever happened to you!
    The Wells Fargo Room in the Main Inn
    The Post Master's Room

    • Address 2800 S Irish Hollow Road
      Galena, IL 61036
      USA
    • Phone+1-815-777-6000
    • Fax+1-815-777-6100
    • EmailContact Innkeeper
    Inn's website

    The INN at IRISH HOLLOW and COUNTRY ENGLISH COTTAGES is rated the best Country Inn in the Midwest. Set on 500 acres of magnificent rolling hillsides and valleys, the Inn offers the perfect setting to reconnect and be pampered in the heart of Galena's picture-perfect countryside. Guests enjoy personalized comfort, superb hospitality and lush amenities designed to thrill the most sophisticated traveler. The Irish Hollow award winning kitchen creates gorgeous meals hand-crafted from the world's finest natural and organic ingredients, along with selections from the Inn's own organic farm gardens. The lavish Full Country Gourmet Breakfast is served daily. The tremendous seven-course Candlelight Dinners are included in the seasonal packages. The onsight Massage Staff provides Hot Stone Therapy Massage which integrates the best techniques from around the world, ranging from a 75 minutes to a 2 1/2 hour experience. The 500 acre estate is cut with miles of hiking trails, streams, rock outcroppings, wooded ridges and connects to a 1500 acre nature preserve. Featured as a favorite by The New York Times, The Chicago Sun-Times, Midwest Living, Glamour and Country Living magazines.

    Professionally Inspected

    Diamond Collection Inspected and Certified

    Inspector Insights: Perfect special-occasion getaway; remarkable attention to each detail; warm hospitality; exceptional food at breakfast and dinner; luxurious private lodgings.

    Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 48 Reviews

    4.9 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    5 out of 5
     

    A Most Relaxing & Fulfilling B&B

    May 21, 2013

    You have to give Irish Hollow a try. You will then be looking to book your next visit. It is that good. The Inn Rooms are wonderful. This year we stayed in a cottage. I now will be booking their cottages from here on as it is a more full experience. The cottages smell wonderful and are decorated in a way that will make you want to take photos of each room as I did. The firplace and the screened in porch to retreat to had us spending more time at the Inn than we originally planned - with no regrets at all. Matthew is an amazing host and makes sure you are well taken care of. The entire staff is of the finest in Hospitality services. Nothing unprofessional here and they love what they do. My wife & I now have an annual tradition here at Irish Hollow. Anthony & Ann

    5 out of 5
     

    Anniversary Getaway

    May 05, 2013

    For our 26th anniversay this year we decided to go to Galena. I found The Inn at Irish Hollow on the internet and we made our reservations. What a fabulous time we had. From the time we arrived Matthew was the best host. All of the staff want to do all they can to make your visit exceptional. The cottage we had was beautiful and cozy and the food was fabulous. We were so spoiled we hated to have to leave. We will go back for sure.

    5 out of 5
     

    Perfect Anniversary Getaway Weekend

    August 25, 2012

    My hubby and I were looking to do something fun and different for our 18th anniversary on August 19th. We decided to go with a B&B , and since we both love Galena, I found Irish Hollow thanks to Google and boy am I glad I did. We were amazed beyond words when we got there, it was so much off the beaten path and the setting looks like something out of a picture postcard, the weather was perfect, the inn was perfect, our room was cozy and done beautifully, the champagne, the flowers, the chocolates, the breakfast every morning, the 7 course dinner, it was just the most superlative of experiences. We stayed at The Shopkeeper's Suite in the Inn, it was so "old timey" and beautiful. I'm actually torn if we will take this same room if available for our next visit or a cottage. We got some hiking done and even had Molly, the inn's cat come along during our hikes, it was so cute how she kept step with us all the way. The couple's massage was one of the most relaxing massages I have had and I am no stranger to massages. Matthew & Tony were so helpful in answering all our questions , and there was absolutely no issue with adapting the food to my hubby's dietary habits ( he is a vegetarian ). This has to be one of the nicest anniversaries we have had so much so that we will be going back in November and probably many many times after that.

    5 out of 5
     

    Another world...paradise

    June 26, 2012

    The Inn at Irish Hollow has to be the best experience we have ever had at a B & B. The service was outstanding. Matthew was very attentive and welcoming. Our room far exceeded our expectations with a beautiful fireplace, whirlpool tub, sitting area, and extremely comfortable bed; the owners provided for every need-- and then some. The food was completely amazing. We enjoyed the beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and look forward to our next visit!


    Location

    Innkeeper Information

    Innkeeper(s)

    Matthew, Bill and Tony

    Innkeepers Description:

    Bill, Tony and Matthew... the ideal combination as co-innkeepers at Irish Hollow. Tony brings his expertise from managing at the Chicago Hilton. Bill, formerly with the Ritz Carlton of Chicago, designs the ultimate exquisite country-gourmet meals. Matthew, a resident of the Irish Hollow Valley all of his life (except for his four-year stint at college), is the perfect host!

    The innkeepers speak:

    • English

    • Spanish

    Explore Inn At Irish Hollow and Country English Cottages

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  • Rooms & Rates

    • Nightly Rate $225 - $425

    The Stonewood Cottage

    Absolutely exquisite English Countryside Cottage for two, featuring huge limestone wood-burning fireplace in both the bedroom and the sitting room, leathered walls, and beautiful amenities. The all-marble bathroom has large double whirlpool, walk-in shower and separate stool room. Huge King poster bed overlooks fireplace. The furnishing are comfortably gorgeous, on hardwood floors and oriental rugs. Wet bar features espresso maker, fridge small appliances, coffee/tea service. The screened sitting porch overlooks the lush hillside and casual gardens at Irish Hollow. Romantic Getaway, plus!

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King

    Contact for Availability Contact

    The Olde Orchard Cottage

    Grand Cottage for two at the base of the antique apple orchard, with wood-burning fireplace in both the bedroom and the sitting room. A huge all-granite bathroom features double whirlpool and step-in shower. Remarkably beautiful furnishings and accessories throughout, with screened sitting porch, perfect for a romantic breakfast for two (delivered to your door on request). Hardwood and granite floors, wet bar with espresso maker, fridge and the works, stereo system. The picture perfect spot for romance!

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King

    Contact for Availability Contact

    The French Maid's Cottage

    Gorgeous Historic Cottage set in it's own Garden. Originally built for the French Maid in 1880s the cottage has been preserved and updated with beautiful bath with large double whirlpool, walk-in shower and separate stool room. The two-sided fireplace is open to both the bedroom and the sitting room. Wonderful overstuffed funishings, gorgeous woodwork, hardwood floors, oriental rugs and beautiful amenities, coupled with the Inn's magnificent food makes this the perfect romantic stay in the country.

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King

    Contact for Availability Contact

    The Gardner's Cottage

    A Magnificent Romantic Cottage for two. Huge stone fireplace in both the living room and the bath on the spa tub deck. Custom decor with gorgeous furnishings, elaborate comfort, and scintilating views. Every amenity that you could hope for, plus! The details, such as customized Ipod, WiFi, sumptuous bedding, two person shower room with body sprays and rain, A must-stay! Beyond the ultimate Galena Bed and Breakfast!

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King

    Contact for Availability Contact

    The Station House Cottage

    The ultimate Galena Getaway Cottage! Every detail has been considered for your ultimate visit to the Galena Countryside! Stunning decor, detailed amenities, and every conveniece await your visit. Perched on the old railbed, the views dfrom the cottage are spectacular. Wood-burning fireplace in both the bath and sitting rooms, screened lounge porch, delivered breakfast, custom designer furnishings, lush linens, WiFi, and wet bar all combine to provide for the perfect private romantic getaway that you have been needing!

    • Maximum Capacity: 2
    • Bathroom Private Bath
    • Beds 1 King

    Contact for Availability Contact

    Policy

    Reservation Policy

    • Check In: 4:00pm/flexible    Check Out: 12:00pm/flexibl

    • Minimum Stay: 2 night wknd packages

    • Deposit Amount Required: Credit card guarantee or Check for 50 percents of entire bill required with all reservations.

    • Cancellations: Due to the Inn's intimate size and exclusive location, 30-day cancellation required for full refund, (less $50.00 administrative fee). If cancellation occurs within 30 days of arrival, (regardless of when reservation was made), the customer is responsible for the reservation in full. We will happily credit any amount the the reservation staff is able to sublet. Regretfully, No exceptions.

    • Open All Year Round: Yes


    General Policies

    • Smoking Allowed: Limited

    • Guest Pets Allowed: No

    • Drinking Allowed: Yes

    • Drinking Description: Complimentary wines served with meals

    • Drinks Available: Limited

    • Children Allowed: Suites and Cottages are designed for one couple

    • Suitable For Children: No

    • Childcare Provided: No

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  • Reviews

    Score Breakdown based on 48 Reviews

    4.9 out of 5
     
    • Guest room  5
    • Services  5
    • Value  5
    • Cleanliness  5
    • Dining  5

    Explanation of Our Ratings

      Outstanding
      Exceeded my expectations
      Met my expectations
      Okay, but below average
      Unsatisfactory
    5 out of 5
     

    A Most Relaxing & Fulfilling B&B

    May 21, 2013

    You have to give Irish Hollow a try. You will then be looking to book your next visit. It is that good. The Inn Rooms are wonderful. This year we stayed in a cottage. I now will be booking their cottages from here on as it is a more full experience. The cottages smell wonderful and are decorated in a way that will make you want to take photos of each room as I did. The firplace and the screened in porch to retreat to had us spending more time at the Inn than we originally planned - with no regrets at all. Matthew is an amazing host and makes sure you are well taken care of. The entire staff is of the finest in Hospitality services. Nothing unprofessional here and they love what they do. My wife & I now have an annual tradition here at Irish Hollow. Anthony & Ann

    5 out of 5
     

    Anniversary Getaway

    May 05, 2013

    For our 26th anniversay this year we decided to go to Galena. I found The Inn at Irish Hollow on the internet and we made our reservations. What a fabulous time we had. From the time we arrived Matthew was the best host. All of the staff want to do all they can to make your visit exceptional. The cottage we had was beautiful and cozy and the food was fabulous. We were so spoiled we hated to have to leave. We will go back for sure.

    5 out of 5
     

    Perfect Anniversary Getaway Weekend

    August 25, 2012

    My hubby and I were looking to do something fun and different for our 18th anniversary on August 19th. We decided to go with a B&B , and since we both love Galena, I found Irish Hollow thanks to Google and boy am I glad I did. We were amazed beyond words when we got there, it was so much off the beaten path and the setting looks like something out of a picture postcard, the weather was perfect, the inn was perfect, our room was cozy and done beautifully, the champagne, the flowers, the chocolates, the breakfast every morning, the 7 course dinner, it was just the most superlative of experiences. We stayed at The Shopkeeper's Suite in the Inn, it was so "old timey" and beautiful. I'm actually torn if we will take this same room if available for our next visit or a cottage. We got some hiking done and even had Molly, the inn's cat come along during our hikes, it was so cute how she kept step with us all the way. The couple's massage was one of the most relaxing massages I have had and I am no stranger to massages. Matthew & Tony were so helpful in answering all our questions , and there was absolutely no issue with adapting the food to my hubby's dietary habits ( he is a vegetarian ). This has to be one of the nicest anniversaries we have had so much so that we will be going back in November and probably many many times after that.

    5 out of 5
     

    Another world...paradise

    June 26, 2012

    The Inn at Irish Hollow has to be the best experience we have ever had at a B & B. The service was outstanding. Matthew was very attentive and welcoming. Our room far exceeded our expectations with a beautiful fireplace, whirlpool tub, sitting area, and extremely comfortable bed; the owners provided for every need-- and then some. The food was completely amazing. We enjoyed the beautiful, peaceful atmosphere and look forward to our next visit!

    5 out of 5
     

    Best B&B!

    June 18, 2012

    We truly felt as though we had landed in Paradise when we stayed at the Inn at Irish Hollow. We have stayed at many B&Bs through the years, but the Inn was the best of all...hands down. Our dinner and breakfasts were truly memorable. We enjoyed playing the Steinway grand, sipping wine on the porch, and walking the trails. Matthew is a gem! We offered to adopt him, but he insisted his place was at the Hollow...sigh.

    4.6 out of 5
     

    Perfect escape

    September 23, 2011

    It was a wonderful trip, and we will be back. The cottage was comfortable and the food was the best I've ever had. We did not want to leave.

    5 out of 5
     

    The only bed and breakfast you will ever need

    July 25, 2011

    We have stayed at the Inn at Irish Hollow 7 times and have stayed in all of the cottages. It is the only bed and breakfast that we go to. I am pretty sure that any others would be a step down. Everything is perfect and the food is amazing. All of the cottages are very nice and my wife and I enjoy getting away from the kids in our own private cottage. The rural setting is tranquil and we have hiked on the grounds every time we have been there. It is a wonderful overall experience.

    4.6 out of 5
     

    A luxurious getaway in a pastoral setting

    July 18, 2011

    We chose the Olde Orchard cottage and it truly did exceed our expectations. The furnishings were unique and the overall decor just exquisite. The attention to detail was evident immediately upon entering the cottage -- from the lighting, to the music, to the champagne and chocolates. Our two country breakfasts and 7-course candlelit dinner were a gourmet delight. Matthew made our stay very comfortable with the warm and inviting amenities and outstanding service. We can't wait to return and experience another visit in the winter.


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  • Location Type

    • Countryside

    City - Chicago

    • Distance to city: 180 miles

    • Directions to property:
      From Chgo: I-90 to Rockford, Hwy 20 West past Elizabeth, IL 3 miles to Rodden Road, left 2 miles to Irish Hollow Rd., right 1 mile to property. From Dubuque: Hwy 20 East, over the Mississippi River, past downtown Galena, over the Galena River to Blackjack Road, right 3.3 miles to Irish Hollow Rd., left 3/4 mile to "Y" in road, LEFT!!! to remain on Irish Hollow Rd. 5.5. miles to property. From Platteville, WI: Hwy 84 South to Galena, Hwy 20 East past downtown Galena, over the Galena River to Blackjack Rd., right 3.3 miles to Irish Hollow Rd., left 3/4 mile to "Y" in road, LEFT!!! to remain on Irish Hollow Rd. 5.5 miles to property.

    Airport

    • Dubuque, IA (DBQ) 19 miles

    • Directions to property:
      From Airport: Left out of airport onto Rt 151 to downtown Dubuque. Exit Hwy 20 East to Galena. Cross Mississippi River, past downtown Galena, over Galena River to Blackjack Rd., right 3.3 miles to Irish Hollow Rd., left 3/4 mile to "Y" in road, LEFT!!! to remain on Irish Hollow Rd. 5.5 miles to property.


    Area Attractions

    • Antique Shopping

    • Aquarium

    • Art Galleries

    • Beach

    • Casino

    • Concert venue

    • Gourmet/Fine Dining

    • Historical interests

    • Live Music

    • Movie Theater

    • Museum

    • National/State parks

    • Nature area

    • Hot Air Balloon Rides

    • Horseback Riding

    • Canoeing/kayaking

    • On-site Massage Spa

    • Christmas Events

    • Eagle/Bird watching

    • Performing Theater

    • Picnic area

    • Religious Services

    • River

    • Rodeo

    • Ski area

    • Vineyard

    • Winery

    • Bicycle rental

    • Bicycle riding trails

    • Bicycles

    • Bird watching

    • Boating

    • Canoeing

    • Cross-country ski trails

    • Downhill Skiing

    • Fishing

    • Golfing

    • Horseback riding

    • Kayaking

    • Mountain Bike trails

    • 500 acres with miles of Hiking Trails

    • Horse-drawn Buggy Rides

    • Candlelight Dinners

    • Couples Massage

    • Picnics

    • Downhill skiing

    • Shopping

    • Sight-seeing

    • Ski rentals

    • Snow shoe rental

    • Snow shoe trails

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  • Amenities

    Type:

    • Country Inn

    Property highlights

    • World Class Dining

    • Business travel

    • Gourmet food

    • Honeymoons

    • Nature

    • Romantic escape

    On-site

    • Board games

    • CD player

    • Computer

    • Copier

    • Fax Machine

    • Piano

    • Telephone

    • Wedding Facilities

    Guest room(s)

    • Air conditioning

    • Alarm clock

    • Amenities Basket

    • Bath robes

    • Coffee/Tea facilities

    • DVD Player

    • In-room internet

    • Desk

    • Fireplace

    • Fridge

    • Hairdryer

    • Hot tub/whirlpool tub

    • Internet Service

    • Ironing Board

    • Library

    • Microwave

    • Private entrance

    • Radio

    • Turndown Service

    • Wet bar

    • Wi-Fi

    Other

    • Bicycles/helmets

    • Picnic Baskets

    • Valet Service

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  • Breakfast

    • Type: Full

    • Time Served: 9:00-10:00 or by request

    • Serving Location: Breakfast/dining room,Breakfast Room,Guest room

    Complimentary Perks

    • Non-alcoholic Beverages

    Signature Dish

    Seasonal Candlelight Dinners
    The Irish Hollow kitchen is renown for world-class fare served in the simple surroundings of the Old General Store Dining Room. Menus are hand-crafted from natural and organic ingredients from around the garden, the area and the world. Extraordinary meals such as the Summer Countryside Picnic, the Autumn Harvest Dinner, and the Old World Christmas Dinner, thrill connoisseurs year-round. Amazing pastries, uniquely delicious breakfasts, outrageous dinners, handmade chocolate, and out-of-this-world pillow cookies keep guests begging for the Inn's well-kept secret recipes. Our kitchen skillfully and delightedly accommodates special dietary needs and preferences and specializes in GLUTEN-FREE alternatives.

    Special meal options

    • Low fat

    • Restrictive

    • Vegetarian

    • gluten free

    • special diets

    Additional food services

    • 7 COURSE DINNER

    • ALL SPECIAL DIETS ACCOMMODATED

    • DELIVERED TO COTTAGE BREAKFAST

    • GLUTEN FREE OPTIONS

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