As chef, Home Economist and teacher of food programmes for more than 25 years and accredited to The International Association of Culinary Professionals, Rita's ambition is to develop a truly distinctive Irish Country House cuisine. Cookingmethods are simple and you are introduced to traditional recipes from the local area and influences from other countries in an atmosphere of friendliness and professionalism.

Rita got her introduction to cookery from her mother in the same kitchen as she now prepares your food. Even though Rita's mother was a busy teacher in the local school she did all the home baking and used fresh, natural ingredients fromthe garden, sea and farm to make simple flavoursome and wholesome meals.

From an early age Rita watched and helped her mother at the kitchen table and later became a Home Economics teacher. In 1992 Rita inherited Berry Lodge and after much planning and refurbishment has now developed a very successful tourism business. Rita and her staff welcome you with the traditional Cead Mile Failte and make you part of the family irrespective of your length of stay.