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Meadowlands Hotel

This hotel in a peaceful part of the town is set in 3 acres of grounds and landscaped gardens, yet within walking distance of the town centre. Open since 1998, the high quality of materials and workmanship is now paying off as the building mellows and takes on its own personality - and this, together with caring service from well-trained staff, is ensuring its position as one of the area's leading hotels.

The interior layout and design of the hotel are impressive; notably the whole hotel is wheelchair friendly and furniture, commissioned from Irish craft manufacturers, is interesting, well-made and practical.

Stylish, well-designed bedrooms are spacious and comfortable, with strikingly original decor - and the suites have jacuzzis.

In addition to the main restaurant, An Pota Stóir, informal meals, including seafood from the proprietor's fishing boats, are available in Johnny Franks bar, (12-9 daily).

Conference/banqueting (200/180); free broadband wi/fi; business centre. Golf, equestrian, fishing and walking nearby. Garden. Children welcome (under 3s free in parents' room, cots available free of charge, baby sitting arranged). Wheelchair accessible. No pets.

Rooms 58 (2 suites, 10 superior rooms, 25 no smoking, 1 family, 5 ground floor, 2 for disabled). Lift. 24 hour room service. B&B €105 pps, ss €20. Off-season value breaks available.

The Pota Stóir Restaurant:

The dining room is finished in timber and decorated in a somewhat rustic style, with fishing and farming memorabilia - making for a relaxed atmosphere, which is complemented by a high standard of service.

The hotel has its own fishing boat (operated by the owner), and offers a short, regularly updated menu consisting of local seafood and some excellent non-seafood dishes; the cooking is fairly traditional but the chef is not unwilling to use local foods imaginatively, and to good effect.

The welcome is very friendly and efficient and the attention to detail continues throughout the meal - the staff are knowledgeable and take pride in the quality of food served.

The wine list is simple but perfectly adequate and is very good value.

Probably not ideal for children, with the exception of Sunday lunch, although the staff would be very accommodating in any situation.

Seats 100 (private room 40); air conditioning; pianist Sat D; D Mon-Sat 7-9.30pm, L Sun only 12-2pm; set 3 course D €35; set Sun L €21.95; house wine from €19.50. SC Disc. Restaurant closed Sun D. Closed 24-25 Dec. Amex, MasterCard, Visa, Laser.

Directions:

1km from Tralee town centre on the N69, but usually accessed by N21/N22: go straight through the last two roundabouts and turn right at each of the next two traffic lights; the hotel is on the right. .