Open since 1965, this impressive hotel may now be around fifty years old, but it was exceptionally well built and has been so well maintained through the years that it has continued to outshine many a new top level hotel.
However, never satisfied with anything but the absolute best, in recent years the proprietors have carried out major renovations and upgrades, including adding a 50,000sq ft spa (ESPA at The Europe Hotel & Resort) and a new conference and events centre.
Most of the impressively spacious public areas – which make full use of the hotel’s wonderful location - have received a makeover, and returning guests will be pleased to find that, while contemporary, the style is elegant, comfortable and in no way competing with the setting, which is emphatically the star here.
Bedrooms are renowned for their generous space, quality furnishings, beautiful views and balconies all along the lake side of the hotel. The original style was comfortable and well-planned; all rooms have recently been refurbished in a more contemporary style and they are handsome, if perhaps a little less practical than before.
Leisure facilities include the new spa and leisure facility (with 20 metre swimming pool) and the hotel has two indoor tennis courts and their own Austrian Halfinger ponies for use within the hotel grounds, both complimentary to guests.
Golf is of course a major attraction: the three Killarney golf courses - Killeen, Mahony’s Point and Lackabane – adjoin the grounds, and the two nine hole courses, Dunloe and Ross, are nearby.
The hotel’s continental connections show clearly in the style throughout but especially, perhaps, when it comes to food - breakfast, for example, is an impressive hot and cold buffet.
Head chef Willie Steinbeck has responsibility for food in all areas of the hotel, including the smart new Brasserie Bar (with new terrace for outdoor dining) and the large and aptly-named Panorama Restaurant.
Housekeeping is exemplary and, perhaps unexpectedly, this is a very family-friendly hotel.
See also sister hotels - Ard na Sidhe Country House and The Dunloe
.jpg "Europe Resort - Panorama Restaurant")
.jpg "Europe Resort - Panorama Restaurant")
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