You too can brew … on a Mescan Brewery brew course

 You too can brew … on a Mescan Brewery brew course

Limited places available for Saturday 22 nd March

The fascination with beer and brewing is rooted deep in our culture and Mescan Brewery

opens their doors to fledgling brewers with occasional brew courses. A few places are still

left on the next’ Learn How to Brew a Belgian Beer’ course taking place on Saturday 22 nd

March 2025 in their brewery near Westport. Led by Cillian Ó’Moráin (pictured), the in-depth course

covers all aspects of brewing from ingredient selection to packaging the finished beer.

It's a hands-on practical course where attendees brew a commercial batch of the flagship

Mescan Blond beer in the brewery as well as covering all the theory. This comprises how to

mill grain, make a brew and start fermentation as well as select ingredients and equipment

plus a vast amount of technical information. The day includes tastings of the full range of

Mescan Belgian style beers as well as some beers specially selected to demonstrate

individual beer flavour components. Everyone receives full course notes and the offer of

email support afterwards. Participants are invited to come back and collect bottles of the

beer they have made.

A full lunch of mainly local meats, cheeses, breads and salads are included in this full day

course. The cost is €160 per person and advance booking is absolutely essential as

numbers are strictly limited. Booking is online through www.mescanbrewery.com

The Whiskey Wire. Jameson unveil new Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition

The Whiskey Wire

(other spirits may appear!)

**************************

press release

JAMESON IRISH WHISKEY UNVEILS NEW JAMESON TRIPLE TRIPLE MARSALA CASK EDITION

Triple distilled and triple cask matured, the world’s most awarded whiskey* introduces a Sicilian twist to the Jameson family, exclusive to Global Travel Retail

Jameson, the world’s most awarded* and bestselling Irish whiskey, is delighted to introduce its latest travel retail exclusive to the family, Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition. 

Offering a fresh take on the classic Jameson style, this limited release features hand-selected Marsala casks from Trapani, Sicily for the first time in a Jameson expression, resulting in a whiskey so smooth that it must be a Jameson.  

Building on the success of the Jameson Triple Triple range – including Málaga Cask Edition and the more recent Chestnut Cask Edition – this new, limited-release is matured in a combination of Bourbon barrels, Oloroso Sherry casks, and now Marsala casks, delivering a rich depth of flavour and an extra drop of smoothness, perfect for whiskey-curious travellers.

Crafted from American white oak, known for its contribution of sweet vanilla and clove spice notes, these Marsala casks are hand-selected from the renowned Florio Winery in Sicily. They are then seasoned with Marsala wine for two to three years, absorbing rich flavours of apricot, toffee apple, walnut and woodland spices. These freshly emptied casks are then transported to Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Ireland, where they meet Jameson's triple-distilled whiskey, adding a layer of exciting complexity to the final result.

Master Distiller Kevin O’Gorman comments: “This limited release of Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition is a wonderful example of how we continue to innovate while staying true to our tradition of triple distillation and meticulous cask selection at Midleton Distillery. This expression provides a unique opportunity to showcase the rich flavour contribution from these exceptional casks within the Jameson family, and we are excited for everyone to try it.”

This latest addition to the Jameson family highlights the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship while offering travellers a unique connection to Sicily. Bringing a fresh perspective to Jameson’s triple cask maturation process with its rich history and distinct character, Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition will be available for a limited time, making it the perfect excuse to book that new adventure. 

Bottled at 40% ABV, Jameson Triple Triple Marsala Cask Edition is available exclusively in global travel retail, with an RRP of $45.50 / €39.50 / £37.

Explore online here:  Midleton Distillery Collection

Tasting notes:

Nose: Fresh and vibrant fruit led aromas including dried apricot, banana, and kiwi while woodland spices and hints of walnut add further depth and flavour, complementing the sweet vanilla and caramelised brown sugar.

Taste: Rich and full with notes of toffee apple, vanilla, and chocolate dipped walnuts, accompanied by notes of exotic fruits with a subtle hint of ginger spice.  The oak’s soft tannins work in balance with the fruits and spices, creating a wonderfully balanced whiskey.

Finish:  Lasting finish in which the fruits and oak are the first to fade, allowing the gentle spices linger until the very end.

**************************

Redbreast 12 Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, 40% ABV

Sip into the heritage of Irish whiskey

Redbreast 12, a delightful and much praised Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey, has complex spicy and fruity aromas with toasted wood notes evident. On the palate, it is fully flavoured and complex, silky smooth with a harmonious balance of spicy, fruity, sherry and toasted notes. And those flavours linger long in the aftertaste. Its time spent maturing in Spanish oak Oloroso sherry butts has enhanced its colour, aromatics and flavours.

A terrific sipping whiskey, it’s a popular choice for whiskey enthusiasts and is considered one of the best examples of the Irish pot still tradition, and, as you’d expect, it is widely available. My glass in The Canopy (Castlemartyr Resort) cost €12.50. Midleton Distillery sells it for €70.00 per 700 ml bottle, and it is also available online.

By the way, did you know that the tour of Midleton Dfistillery (where Redbreast is produced) has been much revamped in recent years. So if you’d like to taste Redbreast and other famous whiskeys at source, you can get all the info you need here. 

Very Highly Recommended. 

*****************

Killowen Rum & Raisin Single Malt Irish Whiskey 55% ABV

“A stellar release from Killowen Distillery” (Celtic Whiskey)

Sourced Bradleys Hip Flask Club. Generally available £56 (€67.45).

Using inputs from sunny Jerez in Spain and the equally sunny islands of the Caribean, the little Killowen distillery worked their acknowledged mastery (with their renowned worm tub condensers doing its business, as always) in a less than sunny island to produce this Rum and Raisin, a minor masterpiece of Irish Whiskey. 

The casks included were Bourbon for ageing, the finish applied in Dark Rum Casks and PX sherry casks. The influential malt, sourced from the neighbouring GND County Louth,  engaged superbly with Sherry flavours of dried fruits and raisins and the tropical elements of the rum.

Those dried fruits and the rum notes get to star in a smooth, velvety texture. It is quite complex in terms of aromas and flavours. It can be enjoyed neat - add a few (yes, a few) drops of water, as ABV is 55%. Mixologists seeking to add something different to their creations have cottoned on to it, and you'll find it in a variety of serves.

All this from what has been called Ireland’s smallest distillery, one that you may visit in its scenic location in the Mourne Mountains. Read more here.   Brendan Carty of Killowen Distillery will be in Cork next month for the Cork Whiskey Festival. Read more, including tickets, here. 

Very Highly Recommended

**************************

Chivas Regal Extra 13 Sherry Cask Selection

40% ABV

Chivas Regal Extra 13 Sherry Cask Selection is a premium Scotch whisky that is known for its rich and complex flavour profile. Colour, aroma, and flavour have been enhanced by its time in Oloroso sherry casks, and its character has improved with depth and sweetness.

In the mouth, you sense notes of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, the influence of sherry casks giving toffee, butterscotch, and dark chocolate. The finish is smooth and lingering, with a warm sweetness that invites additional sips. There are also notes of the traditional peat but nothing extreme. This is a very balanced whiskey, very drinkable indeed.

Chivas Regal pairs well with various mixers, but it can also be enjoyed neat. For a classic option, consider adding a splash of water or serving it on the rocks to fully appreciate its flavours. Alternatively, you can experiment with ginger ale or soda water. Another delightful way to enjoy Chivas Regal is in a classic cocktail like The Godfather, especially if crafted with Joe’s Amaretto.

While it's excellent neat or on the rocks, it can also be included in cocktails that benefit from its rich flavours. I recently enjoyed it in a Godfather cocktail with Joe’s Amaretto.

Back in the 19th century, John and James Chivas were always pushing the boundaries of what was expected. In their Aberdeen Emporium, they imported different spirits and spices from across the globe, fascinated by a world of flavour. This Chivas Extra 13 Sherry Cask Selection is a rich yet sweet whisky that adds a deeper layer of flavour to the luxurious Chivas house style, continuing the spirit of that 19th-century Emporium. Please note that this Sherry Cask is just one of a portfolio of differently finished Chivas 13.

Highly Recommended

*************

Mitchell’s Green Spot Leoville Barton Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey 46% ABV

A special edition that sees Green Spot hit greater heights

Widely available at about €75.00 per bottle

(Bought mine flask full via Bradley's Hip Flask club) 

A unique limited release that won gold in the Irish Whiskey Masters in 2021, 2022, and 2023! Green Spot Chateau Léoville Barton was initially matured in traditional sherry and bourbon casks and then finished in the Bordeaux winery’s oak casks, adding an exciting new dimension to this Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey already renowned for its excellent quality. 

Indeed, that oak influence, while never overly bearing, may be noted in the aromas, flavours and finish of this marvellous whiskey. The basic Green Spot itself is a favourite here, and this edition takes it to a stellar level.

In June 2015, the Château partnered with Irish Distillers Midleton Distillery and Dublin-based Wine and Whiskey Merchants Mitchell and Son to create a Bordeaux wine finished expression of the iconic Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey. 

Mitchells are part of Irish whiskey history while and the Château Léoville-Barton has made its mark on the Bordeaux wine story. Their 2015 collaboration here has been hugely successful with this edition winning World’s Best Single Pot Still Whiskey (at the World Whiskies Awards).  Today, the Château is managed by Anthony and Lilian Barton, descendants of the pioneering ‘Wine Geese’ winemaker Thomas Barton, who established his legacy in 1725.

Very Highly Recommended

*************

BLACKWATER IRISH WHISKY ‘THE FULL IRISH’ 48.5% alc/vol, 50cl bottle, Limited Edition. €55.00

Head Distiller John Wilcox says: ‘refined, complex and bold.’

“This blend contains every permissible grain (barley, malt, wheat, oat, rye and maize), and it shows in the aromas and in the mouth, a serial (excuse the pin) and beautiful contact with the senses. And this Blackwater blend also looks well, in its shiny foxy robe. With the elevated ABV, a drop or two of water will work its usual magic.

No wonder it has been collecting accolades since its launch in 2024.

Quite possibly one of the finest blended Irish whiskeys I’ve ever been lucky enough to try. …A bold and rather brilliant release from the Blackwater Team.’ Business Post

‘One of the most interesting whiskeys unveiled at Whiskey Live 2024. This release … showcases the 3 styles of Irish whiskey .…’ Irish Whiskey Magazine

Blackwater themselves say: This blend rocks. What’s in the bottle? 45% Blackwater produced single malt, 45% Blackwater produced pot still (both five years old) and 10% seven-year-old grain whiskies, finished in stout casks from local Hopfully Brewing Company.”

As with all Blackwater products, it’s not chill-filtered or coloured. Aged in bourbon barrels before finishing in the Hopfully casks. It is a limited edition.

Very Highly Recommended

 ****

Celebrate spring with O’Briens Annual Wine Sale! Up to 25% off on 50 amazing wines.

press release

Celebrate spring with O’Briens Annual Wine Sale! Up to 25% off on 50 amazing wines.

One of the most anticipated events on every wine lover’s calendar, the O’Briens Annual Wine Sale is renowned for its exceptional savings on a host of fabulous wines. This year, we’re making the most of the brighter spring days and are delighted to reveal that our Annual Wine Sale is taking place from 6th March - 30th March 2025!

Spectacular savings are to be found both in-store and online
Launching across our 34 stores nationwide, online at obrienswine.ie and on the O’Briens Club app, there are spectacular savings to be enjoyed, along with in-store tastings and more.

Customers can save 25% on 50 fabulous wines, including favourites such as Ophalum Albariño, Chablis Maurice Tremblay and Lunaria Coste di Moro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo.

There are some spectacular special offers too on much-loved classics like Château Bentejac and Monte Real Rioja Gran Reserva, which are both half price!

We are also delighted to bring 7 brand new wines to our shelves at special introductory prices for our customers to discover. You’ll find wines from artisan producers, family wineries and famous brands, so it’s the ideal time to stock up on favourites, try something different or explore one of our new wines.

Explore the stars of the sale
We’ve selected a few of the stars of our Annual Wine Sale, including some new arrivals and a few customer favourites that offer exceptional value.

NEW ARRIVAL - La Salette Blanc
Gascony, France

€9.95 (Price valid from 6th March to 30th March)

This beautiful French white comes from the family-run Duffour estate in the heart of Gascony. The Duffours farm sustainably, and the winemaking follows a classical approach with a focus on retaining the grapes’ aromas in the wines.

Our wine team’s tasting note: Fresh, crips Gascogne white with aromas and flavours of complex exotic fruits, lively and fresh with a finish on citrus.

NEW ARRIVAL - Palme Pinot Grigio
Veneto, Italy

€ 9.95 (Price valid from 6th March to 30th March)

Our refreshing Pinot Grigio from the Veneto offers exceptional quality for the price. Boasting a stylish label, it’s made with grapes planted on slopes, which contributes to a fresh acidity in this wine. Wonderfully versatile, it’s perfect on its own and is a great match for seafood and pasta dishes. 

Our wine team’s tasting note: A delicious, slightly aromatic, expression, filled with notes of white blossom and orchard fruits, with a smooth, textured mouthfeel and a lingering, fruit-driven finish.

Picpoul Caves Molière  
Languedoc-Roussillon, France

WAS €17.95 NOW €11.95 (Price valid from 6th March to 30th March)

This crisp white hails from the Languedoc and is made with the on-trend Picpoul grape. It’s unoaked and bursting with delicious fruit notes and a hint of ripeness on the mid palate.

Our wine team’s tasting note:  A bright fresh Picpoul from the Languedoc that reveals powerful citrussy aromas, these follow through to the palate along with an exotic hint of melon, the finish is mouth-wateringly fresh and lingers on fruit.

Ophalum Albariño         

Rías Baixas, Spain

WAS €19.95 NOW €12.95 (Price valid from 6th March to 30th March)

This unoaked Albariño is made by the innovative Paco & Lola winery which was founded by a group of independent grape growers in Galicia’s Salnés Valley.

Our wine team’s tasting note: Ophalum Albariño is unoaked with aromas and flavours of pear and citrus fruit along with tropical hints, a saline mineral note and crisp acidity define the long finish.

Lunaria Coste di Moro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo
Montepulciano d'Abruzzo DOC, Italy

WAS €19.95 NOW €14.95 (Price valid from 6th March - 30th March)       

From a biodynamic co-op in Italy’s Abruzzo region, this smooth Montepulciano is a great introduction to the world of organic wines.

Our wine team’s tasting note: Made from organic, wild fermented grapes this has a pronounced nose of black cherries and toast from the oak ageing. The palate is fairly full-bodied with concentrated black fruit notes combined with cocoa, cinnamon and vanilla.

Trefilari Appassite Primitivo
Puglia, Italy

WAS €22.95 NOW €16.95 (Price valid from 6th March to 30th March)     

This rich red comes from a cooperative of second-generation growers based in Puglia’s Salento region. It’s made from late-harvested grapes and semi-dried grapes, which results in rich dark fruit notes.

Our wine team’s tasting note: Rich and intense aromas of plum and black cherries, accompanied on the palate, by notes of vanilla, chocolate and fig, with a plush mouthfeel and a hint of Mediterranean herbs on the long finish.

The O’Briens Annual Wine Sale runs in-store and online from 6th March - 30th March 2025.

About O’Briens

Irish and family owned, O'Briens have been helping Ireland celebrate life's special moments since 1944. We import much of our range of more than 800 wines directly from over 180 wineries across the world and are also home to a wide range of premium spirits and craft beers. Visit one of our 34 stores across Ireland, shop online at obrienswine.ie or download the O’Briens App. We offer free delivery on online orders over €150.

Twelve favourite Killarney hotels (plus two on the Ring of Kerry)

Twelve favourite Killarney hotels 

(and two on the Ring of Kerry)

Victoria Hotel 

Victorian elegance and a prime location make this a charming Killarney choice

.

Killarney’s Victoria Hotel, on Muckross Road, is a comfortable and well-situated base for a short break in Kerry. It is on the Ring of Kerry, and the National Park is just a short stroll away.

We were immediately struck by the warmth of the welcome at the reception, later in the dining room and also in the breakfast room. The fact that this 33-bed hotel, owned by the Courtneys, has separate dining rooms indicates their focus on space and comfort.

Breakfast is excellent here, and you won’t have to leave your seat. No buffet. Everything, including juices, breads and cereals, is brought to your table. You just indicate your preferences, sit back, and enjoy. Quite a menu as well. We can recommend the pancakes, the Full Irish (or variants thereof), and the Charcuterie and Irish cheese plate.

The Ivy Restaurant, including access from the street, is a splendid place to dine. Again, there’s a high degree of comfort and space, a friendly and courteous team, and the food (not to mention the drink) doesn’t disappoint either. We had dinner there and can give it a big thumbs up! Read more here

Charcuterie and Irish cheese plate, breakfast choice at the Victoria

Lake Hotel 

A frosty sunrise at the Lake Hotel

Lakeside luxury and stunning scenery create a magical escape at this picturesque retreat.

Located on the lakeshore, about two km from Killarney town, the location of the hotel is splendid, and the views are magnificent. It even has its own lakeside promontory in front, complete with a 12th-century floodlit castle.

It has been in the Huggard family since the 1940s, and the welcome here is always warm, and they especially love to see customers returning. You can relax, and enjoy the views and the National Park next door, and they will also feed you very well indeed (Chef Noel Enright was named Chef of the Year in the 2024 Virgin Media Awards).

On our first visit quite a few years back, we were puzzled to hear the tuxedoed Maitre d' announce to the dining room: "They are coming!"  'Who is coming?" I wondered. As it turned out, it was the local deer on their way in the autumn twilight from the nearby grazing to the shelter of the woods for the night. We had a terrific view of these elegant creatures from our table. Read more here

Earls Court Hotel 

A boutique gem in the heart of Killarney, perfect for a stylish getaway.

Boasting spacious rooms with balcony views of the mountains and valleys, Earls Court House is set in a quiet suburb, 10 minutes walk from Killarney centre. The family-run hotel offers a picturesque retreat, surrounded by its private grounds (including ample parking), and it is adjacent to the magnificent Killarney National Park and serves as an ideal starting point for the renowned Wild Atlantic Way

At breakfast, we were delighted to find the same friendliness and efficiency noted when checking in. The large dining room is nicely divided into small sections by timber dividers. A stag's head stared down from above the fireplace as we studied the menu. A visitor was heard to remark that the food looked lovely and fresh and was told that they support local produce and that everything is cooked from scratch. 

We were very pleased with both the stay and the breakfast. We finished off with a slice of delicious fruit cake before saying goodbye to the lovely crew. Although they don't offer dinner, they are happy to give recommendations and make dinner reservations at the best restaurants in the town and nearby. Read more here

Killeen House Hotel 

 Warm Irish hospitality and exquisite dining make this a true Killarney treasure.

Step into a world of warm Irish hospitality and exquisite French cuisine at the Killeen House Hotel. Under the ownership of Patrick Eviston, a seasoned Killarney hotelier, a new dynamic manager in Darren Looney, and with the culinary talents of Chef Cyrille Durand in the kitchen, Killeen House and its crown jewel, Rozzers Restaurant, served us very well indeed during our 2024 visit.

Location, Location, Location

Nestled just outside Killarney, Killeen House boasts breathtaking views of the Kerry Mountains. Perfectly positioned between Kenmare and Dingle, it serves as an ideal base for exploring all that Kerry has to offer. A short stroll away, a scenic viewpoint allows you to soak in the stunning lakes and mountain vistas. For a taste of local libations, don't miss the nearby brewery and distillery – a must-visit for any craft beverage enthusiast. Read more here.

The Brehon Hotel 

Modern elegance and a relaxing spa experience define this contemporary Killarney hotel.

The Brehon Hotel on the Muckross Road was our base for a two-night stay in Killarney. Dinner at Danú, the hotel’s restaurant, was included, and it was a good one. It was a set menu, part of the package, so not A La Carte. Still, we had three or four choices in each section. And service was superb., We were treated every bit as well as a former Taoiseach (who was visiting)

While the hotel looks a bit gothic on the outside in the dull, wet weather, like us all, it will brighten up as the Spring comes in, bringing green life to the creepers that will partially cover the exterior. The interior, with its soaring foyer, is eye-catching. Rooms are comfortable and have all the facilities you’ll need. Service is excellent, and you’ll get lots of smiles and hellos in the corridors and public spaces as you come and go.

If you are travelling on the Ring of Kerry, the Neil Grant managed Brehon also makes a handy and comfortable lunch stop. On one such trip, we parked at this quite splendid hotel and its rather impressive entrance. Head chef Chad Byrne may have had a day off, but he has a fine team here, so no worries, and we went on to have a most enjoyable lunch indeed, an early highlight of that trip to the kingdom. Read more here

Cahernane House Hotel

Window view from Cahernane

Step back in time at this elegant manor, offering tranquillity and old-world charm.

Cahernane House Hotel in Killarney, Co. Kerry, offers a perfect escape with its serene surroundings and charming manor atmosphere. Located on the edge of Killarney National Park, it serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Ring of Kerry.

The hotel has gained a reputation for its exceptional dining experience, thanks to an emphasis on food provenance and seasonal ingredients in the menu by Head Chef Cormac Vessey and served at the beautifully decorated Herbert’s Brasserie. Guests can also enjoy food and drink in the more casual Cellar Bar and the elegant Drawing Room, all of which welcome both hotel residents and visitors.

The Brasserie is complete with luxury furnishings, flooring and fittings. The beautiful Bushfield Interior curtains frame the stunning views over the Tomies and Purple Mountains.

The twinkling chandeliers are from Tara Crystal Chandeliers. The intricate wallpaper is from Lewis and Wood London, and silver cutlery is from Robert Welch, the perfect surroundings and ambience match an exquisite dining experience.Read more here

Randles Hotel

Enjoy breakfast in the beautiful Checkers room at Randles

A family-run haven known for its friendly service and welcoming atmosphere.

Killarney, as you all know, is a busy place, and Randles Hotel on the Muckross Road, itself part of the famed Ring of Kerry, is one of the most popular venues in the area for tourists. The Randles have been welcoming guests since 1964. 

But it’s not just touring coaches that the hotel caters for. Golfers are a major factor in the hotel’s business. From this central location,  the dedicated golfer can play at a string of top-quality courses over the course of a few days. These include Killarney, Beaufort, Tralee, Ring of Kerry, Dooks, Ballybunion, Waterville, and even the Old Head of Kinsale, all within two hours. And if you need to go further or faster, Randles will arrange a helicopter.

Randles is very well placed indeed for more leisurely sightseeing, with the National Park (including Torc Waterfall) and both Muckross House and Killarney House a few minutes walk away. And the racecourse is easily reached by car.

The Drawing Room is there for the guests to enjoy. Sink into the comfortable sofa with a book or complimentary newspaper while the fire blazes away. Or enjoy the views of the Kerry mountains while just soaking up the atmosphere of this room filled with antiques and comfortable sofas, harking back to the days when the original house was a splendid family home.  Read more here

Aghadoe Heights 

View from Aghadoe

Panoramic views and luxurious comfort distinguish this iconic Killarney hotel

You dine well here. The quality was excellent all through dinner, from Amuse Bouche to Dessert. In the morning, we ordered our hot breakfasts from the kitchen; both the dishes, the Eggs Royale (with smoked salmon) and the Pancakes (with maple syrup and berries), were faultless.

We slept well in a spacious and well-equipped room and enjoyed the morning views over Lough Leane below from the balcony. You don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy these views as there is a public viewing area with a car park. Just head out the Killorglin Road from Killarney town, turn right for Dingle and then right again and it will be on your right with the hotel on the left.

Before we said goodbye, we took a final look at its terrific collection of art, including works by Knuttel and Kerry artist Liam O’Neill. Time then to say goodbye to the lovely people who manned the reception, warm and friendly as they had been when we arrived.

• Read more here

The Dromhall Hotel 

Jarveys pick up passengers in the Dromhall car park.

A classic Killarney experience, blending modern amenities with traditional hospitality.

In 1964, Kay and her husband Neil Randles purchased a bungalow across the Muckross Road from their garage business in Killarney and opened an 18-bedroom hotel, the Dromhall, on the site. In 1992, the Rectory next door was purchased, and another hotel was built, the Randles Court, a 4-star hotel (see above).

The family decided to knock down the Dromhall in 1999 and it was reopened as the brand new 72 bedroom hotel that it is today, its appeal enhanced by the well known Kayne’s Bar and Bistro. The bar and bistro are quite popular not just with hotel guests but with the public who regularly drop in for a bite or a dram. Read more here

The Europe Hotel 

Brandy
Alexander

Grandeur and opulence await at this landmark hotel, a Killarney institution.

Shining bright in the majestic Kerry landscape on the shores of Lough Léin and only 5 minute’s drive from Killarney town, we found the Europe Hotel & Resort to be a convenient and luxurious base for doing the Ring of Kerry or for visiting the magnificent Dingle peninsula.  

Amazing space and comfort here. The hotel is large, with 180 rooms, and its bright Panorama restaurant overlooks the lakes to offer one of the best views of any dining location in Ireland. 

In the evening, sit back and relax in The Lounge of this Killarney hotel, where time stands still and catches its breath and where they serve some marvellous cocktails. Catch the local musicians who perform several nights each week.

Pancake Panorama

Looking for something more active. Here, guests may enjoy complimentary horseriding along sheltered bridleways during their stay. Their Haflinger ponies are a gentle breed and are ideal for children and novice riders. In addition, fishing and boating in Killarney feature in the many activities on offer at the property.

Read more here

Muckross Park Hotel

Killarney National Park, on Muckross Park's doorstep

Nestled in the national park, this hotel offers a serene and nature-filled experience.

Muckross Park Hotel & Spa, located just 4 km from Killarney Town, is renowned for its stunning weddings, and it excels in this area. However, the hotel offers much more than just wedding services. 

 

One highlight is the award-winning Yew Tree Restaurant, which is situated in the original Victorian lounge of the hotel. The dining room is beautifully appointed, and we enjoyed the friendly and warm service alongside excellent food and an impressive wine list.

 

This five-star hotel successfully blends 18th-century elegance with 21st-century luxury and is surrounded by the breathtaking 25,000 acres of Killarney National Park. The spectacular scenery provides opportunities for unforgettable walks and bike rides, with Torc Waterfall just down the road. Additionally, the hotel is located on the famous Ring of Kerry, making it easily accessible by car or by one of the many touring buses available. Read more

The Royal Hotel

Lovely view from Ross Castle, just a few minutes drive from Muckross Park

Experience the royal treatment at this centrally located hotel, fit for kings and queens.

The boutique 4-star townhouse hotel, the Royal, is centrally located in the heart of vibrant Killarney Town. The majestic beauty of Killarney and Kerry is outside the door.

The Scally family are rightly proud of their hospitality legacy, spanning over three generations. Committed to delivering gracious hospitality and creating lasting memories for residents, the family have huge praise for the dedicated and passionate staff who have proudly represented the hotel and the town for many years, delivering the friendly personal service and true Irish hospitality synonymous with Killarney Royal Hotel.

Our stay, based around the St Patrick’s festivities, fully illustrated the popularity of the Royal. It was packed, and again, the staff came up trumps. We hadn't booked dinner but enjoyed the usual big choice for breakfast and that usually set us up well for the day. The current dinner menu is wide-ranging and very much locally based, including everything from soup and sandwiches to steak, with Lena's homemade Apple Crumble as a dessert highlight.Read more here

Two Hotels on the Ring of Kerry

Sneem Hotel

Red

Walking the dog is probably the wrong way to put it. Really, it is Red that takes you for a stroll.

After a hearty breakfast in the Sneem Hotel, we decided to take the walk in front of the hotel, one that winds around part of the nearby inlet, and also provides a delightful view from your room. So with coat and hat on, we headed out the front door and were immediately accompanied by Red. 

Red? Well, he is the hotel’s resident dog and is a big, friendly Red Setter that we had met briefly while enjoying a drink in the lounge the previous evening. It is a dog-friendly hotel but has much else going for it, including that terrific view - make sure you book a sea-view room as it is well worth the supplement. Besides the view, the room is very spacious, very comfortable and you’ll have everything you’ll need.

One of the more unusual treats here is the facility to enjoy an open-air Seaweed bath. “It is scientifically proven that having a seaweed bath is beneficial for supporting our nervous system and making us feel more calm.” Over to you!  Read more here

Glenbeigh Hotel

They know how to cook their fish here!

Our base, while driving the Ring of Kerry, was the old Glenbeigh Hotel, with its own parking and large gardens. Though most of the meals are served in the old bar, a large one, they also have a beautifully decorated Garden Room where we enjoyed a really good breakfast. 

The evening meal was quite splendid and featured some excellent fish dishes, including their Seafood Mariniere, for example, packed with fish (fresh salmon and white fish) and shellfish (mussels and prawns). There’s a very friendly and efficient team in place. The only downside was the hit-and-miss WiFi.

We could see over the gardens to Rossbeigh Beach from our window and headed there after breakfast for a long walk. Back on the road then, heading for a stop at Waterville. Busy enough here with Micko Dwyer and Charlie Chaplin in their usual positions. Read more here

Bray Head Walk on Valentia Island.