Posts Tagged: Ireland


1
Jun 10

Three Great Hotels In Ballybunion Ireland

The large majority of hotels in Ballybunion can be found, not in the small picturesque village, but in the rural countryside that surrounds the town. This post brings together three of the finest hotels that are popular for their great service, wonderful food, splendid views and proximity to Ballybunion Golf Club.

Starting at the exclusive end of the range, the Ballyseede Castle Hotel is an authentic 15th century castle that was lovingly renovated and refurbished over the past decade as a luxurious 12 room hotel. Each of the large spacious guest rooms are uniquely furnished in an almost regal style and each has pleasant views of the surrounding castle estate.

Throughout the hotel there is ornate plasterwork and period features on display. In particular, the common rooms and dining room architrave and fireplaces are particularly impressive. The menu is a fine dining experience of culinary treats based on a mix of modern Irish and classical cuisine.

Staying with the castle theme, the Glin Castle hotel is on a larger scale to Ballyseede and sports an eclectic mix of large comfortable guest rooms. Of these, the north facing rooms gain the best views of the Shannon estuary while most rooms enjoy views of the walled gardens and the immaculate lawns.

The castle’s larger scale also means it has more dining options from their pleasant restaurant with its pleasant mix of Irish favorites to the ubiquitous pub fare on offer in the welcoming hotel bar and lounge.

Last, but certainly not least, the Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa will suit those in search of a more rural setting. The country manor style of the hotel matches its tranquil countryside setting and the comfortable guest rooms follow the same traditional country style as the remainder of the hotels interior decor.

The additional draw or attraction to Ballygarry is the Nadur Spa that has become a popular addition to the hotel. With its combinations of thermal suites and aqua treatments the hotel can now pamper guests seeking a relaxing getaway.

Ballybunion has become a popular holiday location for those seeking the authentic Ireland of the movies. Thankfully, the laid back atmosphere and love of great food has proliferated through to the restaurants and hotels in Ballybunion making this one of the most enjoyable locations on the Ring of Kerry to stop for a while.


19
May 10

Clifden Hotels: Three Wonderful 3 and 4 Star Hotels In Clifden Ireland

All Clifden hotels have had to raise their standards of service and amenities to compete with the big hotel chains that have started to take over the larger Irish cities. The independent hotels chosen here showcase some of the best service and scenic views in this part of Clifden Ireland.

The Abbeyglen Castle Hotel has been welcoming guests for decades, all there to enjoy its formal gardens, sea-views and renowned restaurant. Seeing the outside of this authentic castle is like traveling back in time while inside the refurbishment to attain 4-star status has managed to retain the elegance of the old castle with modern furnishings.

While guests will enjoy their high-ceilinged rooms and modern en-suites it is the rest of the amenities which prove popular thanks to their award winning restaurant and the recent addition of a sauna and host of beauty treatments.

Further out from Clifden the Renvyle House hotel sits on the coast with sea and country views for miles around. The charming exterior of country manor style hotel is matched inside with a welcoming Irish atmosphere, thanks in no small part to the friendly staff.

Traditional however does not mean antiquated as all guest rooms are kitted out with satellite TV, wifi and modern en-suites. The hotel has their own 9-hole golf course, coastal walking trails (which the owner’s dog will happily accompany you on) and are within a short drive of Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey.

Finally, for the true outdoor enthusiasts the Ardagh Hotel is right in the heart of a region of Connemara famed for its fishing, golf courses and hiking. After a long day exploring the region it is great to arrive back to your large room at the Ardagh, with fabulous views of Ardbear Bay and then head on down to the hotel’s award-winning restaurant for some of the best Irish cuisine in the area.


2
May 10

Doolin Hotels: 3 Great Hotels To Visit In Ireland

The range of lodgings in Doolin Ireland has expanded over the past decade as benefactors of the Celtic Tiger choose to holiday close to home. The three Doolin hotels selected here are rightly popular for their excellent food, friendly service and great views.

The Aran View House is one of the long-standing 3-star hotels in Doolin. Its traditional country house style makes it a joy to look at from outside, while the inside doesn’t disappoint either with a traditional furnishings throughout.

After settling into the large double rooms (all with en-suites) with their ocean views to the west it is heartening to know it is only a short walk to the charming Doolin village. The hotel also has enough dining options with the choice of formal dining (including an a-la-carte menu) in the restaurant or wholesome pub fare in the informal, family-friendly bar.

The unique Ballyvara Guest House is located closer to Doolin village. The unique floor plan of the Ballyvara includes family rooms, studio apartments, luxury suites and regular twin and double rooms.

All rooms are fitted with en-suites, satellite TV and queen size beds while luxury suites feature marble en-suites, a spa bath and king-size beds. The 2 studios are a great option for larger groups wishing to self-cater.

Fans of boutique hotels will enjoy the Tir Gan Ean House 4-star hotel. Of all the Doolin hotels the Tir Gan Ean is probably the most contemporary of the new build hotels in the area. The buildings Celtic design gives the place bags of character and this eye to detail continues inside.

Each of the hotel’s 12 rooms are kitted out with plasma TV’s, air conditioning, under-floor heating and tasteful modern decoration. The overall design of the reception and public areas are kept just as modern. Of particular note is the hearty breakfast buffet with plenty of options to suit most palates.