The Lake Hotel Killarney stands right on the shore of Lough Leane, the largest of the Lakes of Killarney, on the road towards Muckross, with the water at the end of the garden and the mountains of the Reeks across the lake. Beside the hotel are the ruins of a medieval castle on the water's edge, which add to the sense of history and make for a picturesque stroll at the end of the day. It is a traditional, comfortable lakeside hotel rather than a design statement, and its appeal is the setting: you can wake to the sight of mist on the water, walk along the shore in a few minutes and be in the national park without starting a car. Many rooms have views of the lake or the mountains, and these are worth requesting when you book, since the outlook is a major part of the experience here. The hotel has a restaurant and a bar with a relaxed feel, and gardens running down to the lake.
Location and getting around
The hotel is on the Muckross Road, a little under two kilometres from the centre of Killarney, so the town is a short taxi ride or a pleasant but longer walk, and Ross Castle and the lake pier are close by along the shore. Muckross House, the abbey and Torc Waterfall are further along the road, and are easily reached by bike, taxi or jaunting car. It is a good base for walkers, because you can step out onto the park paths almost at once, and the lake views and the sunsets over the water are among the best in the area.
Rooms and facilities
Expect comfortable, traditional rooms with a range of views, from lake and mountain to garden, and request a higher floor or a lake side room if the view matters. The restaurant and bar mean you can have an easy evening in, with a drink by the fire on a cool night, and the gardens are lovely for a walk in the morning or evening light. Check what is included in your rate, including breakfast and parking, and ask about any facilities such as a spa or pool if these are important to you, because they vary with the hotel and the season.
Who it suits and what to know: it is a good choice for couples, walkers and anyone who wants the lake on the doorstep, and for those who prefer a quieter evening to a night out in the pubs of the town. It is less convenient if you want to walk to music and restaurants every evening, though a taxi is easy to find.
Rates are generally in the upper middle range for Killarney, with seasonal variations and offers outside the summer peak. Book early for summer and holiday weekends, ask for a lake view room, and check the cancellation terms, since Kerry weather can change your plans for the day, though not the beauty of the setting.
Why stay here
- ✓Lakeside setting
- ✓Lake and mountain view rooms
- ✓Restaurant
- ✓Bar with a relaxed feel
- ✓Gardens running to the water
- ✓Medieval castle ruins beside the hotel
- ✓Near Ross Castle and the park
- ✓On-site parking
Good questions
Where is The Lake Hotel Killarney?+
On the shore of Lough Leane on the Muckross Road, a little under two kilometres from Killarney town and close to Ross Castle and the national park.
Do the rooms have lake views?+
Many do, but not all. Request a lake or mountain view room when you book, as the outlook is the main attraction.
Is it good for walkers?+
Yes. The park paths and the lake shore start close to the hotel, so you can walk out without using a car.
