Dreaming of lounging poolside on your next getaway?

While that summer sun holiday might be a bit away yet, you could find the next best thing just a short drive from the city.

Ardnavaha House is a romantic little bolthole where three 200-year-old stone cottages have been transformed into luxury holiday lets for couples seeking peace and quiet in lush countryside surroundings.

Nestled in the grounds of the Georgian house, with beautiful views over the gardens, lake, pool and a wooded valley, and accessed via a stone archway, the main attraction is in the centre of the courtyard; a glorious outdoor heated swimming pool where you can float about to your heart’s content, no matter what the weather is doing.

At night, the addition of a few candles makes it a magical spot for a glass of wine.

Inside you’ll find high beamed ceilings and wood-fired stoves, fully equipped kitchens and comfy sofas with large flat-screen smart TVs. Each master bedroom has a king-size bed and a spacious ensuite bathroom with a cast-iron bath and a walk-in wardrobe.

Bistro tables and chairs and sun loungers with beach towels are set up beside the pool so you can dine al fresco or kick back with a good book.

Guests also have access to the stunning gardens for strolls and picnics and there is a tennis court in the upper garden if you fancy a few games during your stay.

After all that exertion, you’ll be more than ready for an afternoon nap in the hammock.

If it’s an adventure you’re after, Ardnavaha is ideally based for touring all the tourist attractions West Cork has to offer. The vast sands of Inchydoney Beach are nearby and a five-minute spin will bring you to the bustling town of Clonakilty and all its top-notch restaurants and cafes and bars.

You could also take the ferry to Roaring Water Bay from Baltimore or Schull to Cape Clear or head out on a seal-watching excursion on the Ferry Trip to Garinish Island Gardens from Glengarriff.

Available to adults only, prices for the cottages start at around €130 per night for two nights (minimum) and the price drops again if you stay for three nights or more. Check out ardnavaha.ie for the next available dates.