Hotel Dunloe Castle, a Luxury Hotel in Killarney

Family-Friendly 5-Star Resort Hotels with Spa, Fishing, Horse Riding

Aug 24, 2009

Hotel Dunloe Castle is one of the best hotels in Killarney for families, with free pony trekking, tennis, pool, sauna, gym, playground, movies and stunning scenic views.

At Hotel Dunloe Castle, guests are assured of a room with a view. Whether it's a fabulous vista of the Gap of Dunloe or a tranquil garden scene, the spectacular beauty of southwest Ireland sets the stage for a fun and welcoming stay at this family-friendly luxury resort and spa.

Best 5-Star Hotels near Killarney National Park

Hotel Dunloe Castle sits on the doorstep of Killarney National Park, just 5 miles (8 km) from Killarney town. This is one of the most beautiful parts of County Kerry, encompassing woodlands, lakes and MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range.

The luxury 5-star hotel is surrounded by 64 acres of private parkland containing mature trees and colourful gardens above a peaceful curve of the River Laune. It boasts stunning views of the Gap of Dunloe, a glacial valley that cuts through the rugged mountains. The stark slopes rise in sharp contrast to the green fields below, and the play of light and shadow as the clouds roll past is a delight to watch from the hotel balconies.

A stroll deep into the lush grounds leads to the ruins of the old castle, which dates to around 1815. Other pathways lined with exotic trees weave around the walled flower gardens, with a peaceful niche overlooking the river below.

Luxury Rooms at Hotel Dunloe Castle

Hotel Dunloe Castle has 100 spacious luxury rooms and 2 suites. The 28 Superior Rooms feature large balconies with seating to better enjoy the fantastic views of the Gap of Dunloe or the parkland estate. They also have refrigerators and his and hers vanity units.

Most of the 72 Garden Rooms also have balconies with peaceful views of the surrounding parkland. The suites have an oversize living room, a king-size master bedroom and luxury bathroom with private Jacuzzi and steam room.

All the luxury rooms at Hotel Dunloe Castle have satellite television, in-house video, DVD or CD player on request, writing desks and other amenities.

Dining at Hotel Dunloe Castle

The elegant Oak Restaurant enjoys beautiful views of the mountains and hotel gardens. An extensive buffet breakfast is served here each morning. The dinner menu features creative dishes inspired by locally sourced meat, fish and produce, accompanied by a fine wine list.

Open throughout the day, the Garden Cafe offerings range from sandwiches and salads to steaks and seafood, all made with fresh local ingredients.

The Upper Lounge, with its sweeping views, is a great place for afternoon tea. And there are two hotel bars, with musical entertainment Wednesday through Saturday.

Luxury Spa Resort Hotel in Killarney

The leisure centre at Hotel Dunloe Castle is perfect for guests wanting a luxury spa resort hotel in Killarney. It boasts a 25-metre indoor pool, sauna, steam room, techno gym and chill out zone. There are also two indoor tennis courts.

The adjoining spa offers a range of treatments for both women and men. These include skin brightening and re-hydrator facials, aromatherapy massage and manicures. The spa uses ESPA products containing organic essential oils with plant and mineral extracts.

Family-Friendly Activities at Killarney Hotels

Hotel Dunloe Castle offers a range of family-friendly activities. Complimentary trekking on the hotel's gentle Haflinger ponies is a perfect way for children and beginning riders to enjoy the parkland.

The River Laune flowing through the hotel grounds is home to salmon and brown trout. Guests can use the hotel's fishing equipment free of charge, and pick their own spot along the riverbank. Or you can increase your chances of a catch by hiring a ghillie to show you the ropes and guide you to the best fishing spots. If you're lucky enough to catch a fish, you can enjoy it for dinner in the restaurant that evening.

A tour of the Gap of Dunloe is a favourite family activity. It begins with a ride in a jaunting car – a traditional, horsedrawn cart – along the scenic 6-mile road through the pass. On the other side of the gap, guests board a boat and sail across the Upper, Middle and Lower Lakes to Ross Castle, returning to the hotel by coach.

Golfers can choose from several challenging courses in the area. In addition to the pool and leisure centre, other activities for children include a playground and free movie nights – complete with popcorn – in the summer.

For more information on regional activities, visit the Tourism Ireland website or dial 0800 039 7000 in the UK.

Hotel Dunloe Castle Contact Details

The copyright of the article Hotel Dunloe Castle, a Luxury Hotel in Killarney in Ireland Travel is owned by Donna Dailey. Permission to republish Hotel Dunloe Castle, a Luxury Hotel in Killarney in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.