Formerly The Clare Inn, this modern hotel overlooking the Shannon estuary was built in the grounds of Dromoland Castle in the 1960s but independently owned and operated, although it shared the golf course.
In 2012, the property was reunited with the Dromoland Estate and it is now a sister hotel to Dromoland Castle, with access to its 450 acres of grounds and wooded countryside.
Moderately priced and with good conference and business facilities - plus golf and a leisure centre with spa for delegates' downtime - it has always been appealing to the business community, and many of the same features also make it an ideal destination for family breaks. Family rooms are available with a double bed and two or three singles and there is plenty for families to do including a Kids' Club in summer (also selected weekends off season), activities for teenagers and lots of places to visit in the area.
At the more grown up end of the scale there's a 'presidential' suite, and some deluxe rooms, which have recently been refurbished. While not luxurious, standard rooms are spacious, well organised and equipped with everything that's needed for comfortable travel, including tea and coffee trays. The no-frills bathrooms may be slightly dated (and have economy baths) but everything works and there should be no complaints.
Friendly, helpful and efficient staff are a big plus at this well located hotel, and it has wide appeal.
Shannigans Gastro Pub
Definitely not your average hotel bar, Shannigans was planned from the outset to be a casual dining USP for the property. In terms of decor, it's a pleasing mix of traditional and contemporary and the food achieves a similar balance. David McCann, Executive Chef for all dining operations on the Dromoland Estate, is renowned for his commitment to local and seasonal foods and, assisted by Head Chef, Fergal McGee (also a long serving member of the Dromoland team) the menus and cooking style aim to reflect that philosophy.
Offering everything from sharing boards or local St Tola goat's cheese crostini to pizza, and local meats (minced Burren lamb kofta kekbab, perhaps) burgers and house style fish & chips (with 'Dromoland Pale Ale' beer batter) there's wide range of popular dishes to please all tastes and age groups - and suppliers are credited on the menu.
In the same vein, you'll find plenty of Irish craft beers and spirits to enjoy with or without food - and there's live music at weekends too.
