Hotel Review: Ballynahinch Castle is peak style — with comfort and views to match
Castle, Connemara Ballynahinch
Few hotels will ever rival Ballynahinch Castle’s startling location.
Perched on the banks of the sweeping Owenmore River, deep in the wilds of Connemara, the mighty Twelve Ben mountains, dappled mauve, silver and grey, enfold the impressive castle.
Dramatic in its scale, beauty and sense of isolation, it’s deceptively close to Clifden and the picturesque village of Roundstone.
Despite the deep pockets of owner Denis O’Brien, the constant investment at Ballynahinch has enhanced rather than overwhelmed the hotel’s uniquely laidback personality.
Beloved by locals as much as out-of-towners, Ballynahinch’s homely country vibes make it a hotel for all people and all seasons.
Roaring fires, fishing rods, wood paneling and welly boots sit happily with a sunny new terrace, deep sofas, riverside dining views and light-flooded bedrooms with fun wallpaper.
And then there’s the incredible art collection on every floor, including Swanzy, Scully and Patrick Scott, that would give many galleries a run for their money. Just gorgeous.
Laid back and authentic, the warm Irish welcome comes from the top down, from reception to the bar, restaurant and front of house.
Staff embody a gentle sincerity with patience and enthusiasm, bringing five-star levels of attentiveness to this very special four-star.
Most seem delighted to work in such an enchanting place and revel in sharing it with guests.
Rooms were tastefully refurbished in 2019 with brand news suites unveiled this year.
Designed by London-based Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, they stylishly merge botanical prints, comfy seating, luxe linen, cool art and good lighting.
Our beautiful suite includes a large and bright sitting room with stacks of coffee table books, where we enjoy relaxing.
A plush bathroom with double vanities, and excellently lit dressing room with good storage feels ultra luxe. This is peak style and comfort with views to match.
A Dyson hairdryer, Voya toiletries with a tea and coffee station come as standard.
The lack of snacks is a little surprising.
The Fisherman’s Pub is a cosy and casual spot with a big fire, Connemara marble bar and fishing paraphernalia, though not everyone loves its revamp.
Perfect for pints and pre-dinner drinks, it’s lovely in here on a grey day tucking into Killary mussels, Connemara oysters, fish pie or salt-aged rib eye.
On a summer’s day, the new terrace — overlooking the river — is a dream spot for tea and scones in the sun.
The main draw however, is dinner in The Owenmore Restaurant, where chef Danni Barry has been sprinkling her Michelin -star magic since arriving in 2023.
An elegant meal of Cleggan crab with pickled kohlrabi and buttermilk dressing followed by local langoustine with fresh pasta and sea herbs, then salt marsh lamb with smoked black pudding and wild garlic capers allows these prime Irish ingredients to shine.
When you add in the soothing views, fun service and charming sommelier, you’re left with a really good dining experience.
There’s no spa or pool at Ballynahinch, which might be a deal breaker for some, but once you discover the 700-acre estate with its vast river, deep lakes and 16km of walking trails, you’ll have forgotten all about them. (Plus, you’re just a 20-minute drive to Gurteen and Dog’s Bay, two of Ireland’s finest beaches).
Fishing, picnics and day trips can all be arranged but it’s the guided estate walk with Eoghan that’s unmissable (€30 per person).
An immersive 2-hour walk to learn about Ballynahinch Castle’s storied past dating back to the 1300s, you’ll take in the old manor, Ranji’s turbine, the original tower house on the island, the well, old Clifden rail track, glorious walled garden and plenty of wildlife.
In many ways it’s a social history of Connemara.
Room to improve? Little name plaques under each artwork would be a great addition. The plastic milk portions feel cheap in the beautiful bedroom and turn-down service missed us on our first night.
Access for guests with disabilities? Just one accessible room and no lift, due its protected status. Internal steps means some areas of the hotel are not fully accessible.
Family-friendly? Yes, especially for multi-generational stays.
Dogs welcome? No.
Car chargers? Yes.
- Ballynahinch Castle, Recess. Connemara, Co Galway
- ballynahinch-castle.com
- The bill: B&B from €395 per room per night in summer. 2 nights B&B with 1 dinner in high season from €950 for two people.
- Jillian Bolger was a guest of Ballynahinch Castle.