There are many lists of the best hotels, restaurants, golf courses and attractions in Ireland that act as a guide for the consumer, but I would much prefer the barometer of personal experience which can have different tools to get to a position on the list.
Whether a hotel is a very luxurious 5 star affair or a humbler 2 or 3 star operation is really not the point here. If that were the case it would just be a matter of measuring all the best 5 star hotels in Ireland which reduces it to a very simple and flawed analysis and ignores the reality that there are many hotels that perform above the standard of your star rating and many who do the opposite. And of course value for money is a big consideration when making judgements.
Whether staying for business or pleasure, a hotel must first and foremost deliver what it promises. It must do what it says on the tin. There is little point in having fancy websites extolling a hotel’s virtues and facilities when the actual reality of what they offer during your stay lets you down. As with any business venture, the most important people in the hotel game are the staff from the top down.
I have traveled extensively around Ireland both on business and leisure, two completely different mindsets when evaluating accommodation and facilities, and here are my top 10 derived from my own memories and feelings and the quality of service provided.
1. Conrad Mount Juliet, Thomastown, County Kilkenny. A beautiful old stately mansion, the ancestral home of the Mc Calmont family, located on rich grazing land in South Kilkenny, turned into a world-renowned golf course, designed by Jack Nicklaus, which has hosted the Irish Open and the World Matchplay Championship. Furthermore, there is a newly added state of the art equestrian center along with a glorious spa and leisure centre. If you want to go the self catering route, there are luxury cottages on the edge of the golf course with the hotel’s leisure facilities available to you at all times. The Lady Helen restaurant in the old house has stately design and classic food.
two. Kellys Resort Hotel, Rosslare, County Wexford. If ever a hotel performed above its 4 star rating then it has to be the institution that is Kellys Resort Hotel on Rosslare Strand, County Wexford. Long established, it is continually innovative and the word “resort” in the title is not used lightly as you will never have to leave this place, like the attractions, amenities, leisure activities and food you want . The beach is accessed from the hotel and the spa is called Sea Spa for the very good reason that all hydrotherapy treatments are with sea water. Forget about a diet if you go there, because they will literally feed you in the morning, at noon, in the afternoon and at night! Truly a gem and family run, reflected in the high level of personal service.
3. Hilton Mount Wolsey, Tullow County Carlow. Mount Wolsey was also originally a stately home which is located just outside the small town of Tullow, to the east of the city of Carlow. Now owned by the Morrissey family, it is an excellent 4-star service with a Christy O’Connor designed golf course, leisure center and spa. A very convenient setting with easy access from Dublin makes it popular with residents of the capital looking for a weekend break.
Four. Merrion Hotel, Merrion Street, Dublin 2. This 5-star hotel is made up of four magnificent Georgian townhouses cleverly and seamlessly linked together and is conveniently located in the center of Dublin. The modest and understated entrance gives way to a luxurious interior complete with almost obsessive levels of personal service. Magnificent rooms and suites complete with a superb leisure and spa area that you’ll need when dining at Dublin’s most famous restaurant, Patrick Gilbaulds, the best Michelin star dining experience in Ireland.
5. Slieve Russell Hotel, Ballyconnell, County Cavan. One of the great 4 star hotels in Ireland, the Slieve Russell is located in the heart of the Lakelands area of Ireland. Offering superb amenities more akin to a 5-star experience, the excellent service likely sets it apart from many similarly-appointed facilities. An excellent championship golf course, a leisure center and a renowned spa make it an ideal retreat for families or couples. Being only 90 minutes from Dublin and Belfast adds to the convenience.
6. Ashford Castle, Cong, County Galway. This was the original dean of Irish hotels when Ireland had no luxury resorts. It can still carry its weight in a more competitive market. Located in the picture-postcard village of Cong, on the banks of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle exudes the addictive vibe of luxury at surprisingly reasonable prices. Superior service and wonderfully rich and warm old world decor draw the visitor into its bosom. The hotel was recently purchased by Gerry Barrett of the famous “G” Hotel in Galway city and the complex offers all the pampering one could possibly need.
7. Solus Elske Hotel, County Donegal. Winner of the 2010 Irish Hotel of the Year award, the only 5-star hotel in County Donegal certainly deserves the recognition. Located just east of Donegal town, the 98-suite hotel welcomes visitors with opulence and genuine, welcoming service. The food is excellent given that it is very new to the market and the facilities are excellent. Great base for exploration of the vast county that is Donegal. The spectacular façade of the castle makes it a very popular wedding venue.
8. Juries Inn, Galway City. Located in the heart of Galway city, close to the famous Spanish Arch and very convenient to the pubs, clubs and restaurants of this vibrant city, Jurys Inn Galway exceeds the upper limits of 3-star ratings. The location, the facilities and, above all, the service make this hotel the best of the Jurys Inn chain in Ireland. Excellent for business and pleasure and particularly affordable for families. A fantastic all-round hotel in a great location in Ireland’s most fun city.
9. Mespil Hotel, Mespil Street Dublin 4. Another 3-star hotel with excellent value for money that punches above its weight. Location and value for money are an important factor for Hotel Mespil to be on this list. In a lovely location on the banks of the Grand Canal, it’s still a less than quick walk to all the city center attractions, including Grafton Street and Stephens Green. The modern decor and rooms with Wi-Fi, along with some very good in-house food and plenty of variety nearby make it worth a try when visiting the capital.
10 Osprey Hotel and Spa, Naas, County Kildare. The Osprey is a recently opened 4-star hotel that stands out for the quality of its accommodation and facilities. 104 rooms, including garden apartments, offer options and luxury for couples and families. Very conveniently located in the Devoy Quarter, a redeveloped area in the center of Naas, the hotels have two restaurants offering contrasting menus of modern and traditional food. An excellent spa and leisure complete the package and the intimate nature of the setting and design make it feel like a superior boutique hotel.