Famed for its spectacular views of the Gap of Dunloe, this luxurious five star hotel is a sister property to the nearby Europe Hotel & Resort, Fossa and Ard na Sidhe Country House, Caragh Lake (see entries).
While it is just five minutes from the town of Killarney, it is set on its own 64-acre estate beside the River Laune complete with its own ruined Norman castle, and - although the hotel is modern - the property has a wonderfully other-worldly atmosphere. The park surrounding the hotel is renowned for its unique botanical collection, which includes many rare plants.
With its generous scale and exemplary standards of maintenance and housekeeping, The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens has much in common with The Europe and, following recent renovations, the public areas - including The Grill Restaurant, with double-height picture windows overlooking the Gap of Dunloe - are also a match for its big sister. A beautiful setting for the kitchen team to showcase the best of local produce in international and Irish cuisine - fine dining with a view! A very good breakfast is served here too, offering an enticing buffet display as well as a tempting range of hot dishes.
Also like the Europe, an extensive range of complimentary onsite leisure activities is offered, include swimming, sauna, steam room, TechnoGym and indoor tennis. Golf is, of course, a major attraction, with easy access to all of the impressive links and parkland courses of the South West of Ireland, and private helicopter transfers possible to courses further afield. Famously too, there is an equestrian centre on site (they breed Halfinger ponies, known for their gentle natures and great for trekking), and also fishing on the River Laune, which is free of charge to residents.
Perhaps surprisingly, the space and relaxed atmosphere make it a good choice for families - and their pets. There is an impressive outdoor play area, informal family meals are offered and, for a moderate charge per night, this fine hotel offers a choice of luxurious kennels or a dog friendly guest room; here you will find a food and water bowl with floor mat, special pet treats and pet beds and (a very realistic idea) “a doggy throw, to cover the sofa with, should that be your pet’s preferred sleeping place!” With such extensive grounds and gardens (clean-up bags provided), it’s emphatically a five star destination for dogs – the only trouble is likely to be persuading them to hop into the car when it’s time to leave.
Best of all, however, is the warm and welcoming ambience created by the excellent staff.
All round, this is a lovely place for a break, and it's a fair bet that they have a high percentage of returning guests. With its location on The Ring of Kerry, the hotel is the perfect gateway for exploring Kerry’s iconic attractions such as Killarney National Park, The Gap of Dunloe, The Wild Atlantic Way (the world’s longest defined coastal touring route), the Skellig Islands and the Dingle Peninsula.
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is a sister property to The Europe Hotel & Resort and Ard na Sidhe Country House.
