Visit Ireland’s Best Inns and Hotels

November 21st, 2008 by Josh Prizer

by Tess Kirkpatrick

With its green hills and rugged coastline, Ireland offers travelers truly wondrous scenery. It is not surprising that so many poets and writers wax enthusiastic about this mysterious island. From Dublin to Blarney Castle, you’ll find plenty of interesting adventures in Ireland.

A journey to Ireland would not be complete without a stay in Dublin. Be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the easiest way to see the sites of the city are on foot. The Guinness Brewery is a popular attraction, as is the National Gallery, where you’ll find works ranging from Manet to Picasso. From there head in any direction and you are sure to find something of interest, from Blarney Castle and the lakes of Killarney in the southwest to the unique landscape of Connemara in the western portion of Ireland. Don’t forget to set aside a few days to explore Northern Ireland and Belfast.

On her popular website, travel writer Karen Brown offers several comprehensive itineraries for visitors to Ireland. Her readers also have voted and chosen the following inns and hotels as Ireland’s top lodging experiences.

Located in Ireland’s picturesque region of Connemara, the Quay House has been chosen by Karen Brown readers as Ireland’s “Most Romantic” inn. The view alone invites romance. Most of the guest rooms and studios face the town harbor of Clifdon. The inn is the oldest building in town and originally served as the harbor master’s house. It now houses seven guest rooms and seven studios, each with a unique theme. The dcor ranges from posh Irish country to the eclectic Out of Africa safari room.

Savor the charm of Ireland at Ballyvolane House, a picture-perfect Irish country house located in County Cork. The rambling grounds feature meticulously maintained gardens and the home is like something out of a Regency romance. The beautiful furnishings and period details create a wonderful historic ambiance. Guests can relax in the spacious drawing room where there are shelves filled with books, magazines and board games. The spacious guest rooms offer wonderful views of the grounds and several include an antique tub. A private cottage also is available. The inn is the recipient of the Karen Brown Readers’ Choice Award for Ireland’s “Warmest Welcome.”

Surrounded by acres of parkland, which includes a ruined Norman Church, a stay at Ballaghtobin is a bit like staying at a friend’s posh country estate. The ivy-covered inn offers three charming guest rooms, each with a private bathroom. The Sun Room is a delightful place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Ballaghtobin, which is located in County Kilkenny, was named by Karen Brown readers as Ireland’s “Greatest Value.”

If you wish to indulge yourself at one of Ireland’s best lodgings, The Merrion is a stunning Dublin hotel and was chosen by Karen Brown readers as Ireland’s best “Splendid Splurge.” The historic hotel is opposite from Leinster House, the home of Ireland’s Parliament. Guest rooms and suites, as well as a hugely extravagant penthouse, are spread among the historic main house and the garden wing. All of the rooms are spacious and elegant with views of the city or hotel gardens. The Tethra Spa offers a wide selection of massage treatments, as well as a fitness center and swimming pool. The Cellar Bar is an excellent spot to enjoy a pint or a glass or wine, and it is found in the hotel’s original wine vaults. There are two restaurants, the more casual Cellar Restaurant and the Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, Ireland’s only two-star Michelin Restaurant.

About the Author:

Tess Kirkpatrick loves writing about boutique Ireland hotels and other travel destinations. For more information on travel in Ireland or for comprehensive Ireland itinerary details, check out the Karen Brown online guide today.