If it's character your after, Devondell is your place–charming antiques and bric-a-brac abound. I felt like I was visiting the cozy home of a favorite Aunt. I only wish I had stayed longer and had more time to chat with Berna.
My room was quaint and comfy. Nothing fancy, but very clean and welcoming. Normally, I don't go in for lace and doilies, but I wouldn't want to lay my head on any other embroidered pillowcase in Galway.
Tea was a treat. I was seated at a small round table covered with all manner of goodies, Berna bustled about, and asked me if I liked my tea, "Weak or strong, dear?" She served *real* tea, the kind that requires a strainer. As I dove into the treats she had arranged on a porcelain cake stand(!) she emerged from the kitchen with a bowl of fresh whipped cream, spoon in hand.
Breakfast was phenomenal, it put 90% of the "hottest" brunch spots i've been to in LA or SF to shame. And I know a thing or two about spending too much money on food (just ask my groaning credit card, currently locked in a drawer). Homemade scones and jams, Irish butter, stewed fruit, yogurt, bananas baked in cinnamon, fruit salad... and that's not even the "cooked" bit. Off the cooked menu, I chose a smoked salmon scramble, which was lovingly served with a carved tomato rosette. I enjoyed breakfast so much I almost missed my train!
This place is the real deal, not some slick urban hotel with a "pillow menu."





