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Killeen House Hotel

Just 10 minutes drive from Killarney town centre and 5 minutes from Killeen and Mahoney's Point golf courses, this early nineteenth century rectory has become Michael and Geraldine Rosney's "charming little hotel".

You don't have to be a golfer to stay here but it must help, especially in the pubby little bar, which is run as an "honour" bar with guests' golf balls accepted as tender; most visitors clearly relish the bonhomie, which includes addressing guests by first names.

Rooms vary in size but all have full bathrooms (one with jacuzzi) and are freshly-decorated, with phone and satellite TV. There's a comfortable traditional drawing room with an open fire for guests, furnished with a mixture of antiques and newer furniture.

The hotel is popular with business guests as well as golfers; secretarial services are available, also all-day room service.

Rooms 23 (all en-suite). B&B about €80 pps, ss €20; sc 10%.

Rozzers:

Resident guests see no need to go out when a good dinner is offered under the same roof as their (very comfortable) beds, and this charming restaurant is also popular locally. You can have an aperitif in the friendly little bar while browsing 5-course dinner menus that offer a wide choice on each course, plus specials each evening.

The range offered is well-balanced, allowing for conservative and slightly more adventurous tastes, and some of the more luxurious dishes, such as oysters, chateaubriand steak or lobster, attract a supplement.

Although the style is quite hearty - perfect for hungry golfers - some lighter choices on each course will appeal to smaller appetites, and a daily pasta dish and a vegetarian dish is offered.

Like the rest of the hotel, the dining has a cosy charm and the owners' hospitality is outstanding.

Restaurant is open to non-residents; Seats 50 (private room, 28); D daily, 6-9.30pm; Set D about €52, house wines from about €22, restaurant sc discretionary. Closed mid Oct-mid April. Amex, Diners, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

6.5km (4 m) from Killarney town centre - just off Dingle Road.