Hotel review: This Killarney hotel has old-school hospitality and newly refurbished rooms
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There’s a reason Killarney is a firm favourite with overseas visitors, some of the country’s finest attractions are all within reach. From the famed Killarney Lakes and National Park, to Torc Waterfall and the Gap of Dunloe, there are iconic vistas at every turn and The Brehon Hotel offers an excellent base to discover them all. Just 1km from Killarney town centre, it’s easily accessible by both car and public transport.
Opened 20 years ago as part of The Gleneagle Group, The Brehon is now an independent family-run establishment since 2021. Embarking on a new chapter of luxury and comfort it embodies the charm of the region. A blend of styles, the interiors are indicative of a property in the midst of transformation. Some areas, like the generous lobby and pillared dining room, show a touch of wear, while other newly refurbished areas including the Heritage Collection suites, perfectly capture the modern elegance of the new vision, though the juxtaposition can feel a bit disjointed.
Choosing a hotel in Killarney is like shooting fish in a barrel. The reason visitors pick The Brehon is simple: old-school hospitality. The hotel’s new general manager, Neil Grant, exudes warmth and kindness, and leads with experience, ensuring guests feel welcomed and cared for. He not only recommended a trip on a jaunting car but personally drove us (in the hotel’s courtesy car) to the Gap of Dunloe where we would enjoy one of the most exhilarating experiences, making you question why the Irish tend to leave these excursions to overseas visitors. Encountering happy and accommodating staff members at every turn, from reception to spa, housekeeping to the restaurant’s maître d is an excellent indicator of a positive workplace, that filters down into the warm atmosphere experienced by guests.
The newest update at The Brehon is the Heritage Bedroom Collection, a number of newly refurbished rooms which signal a real step change for the hotel. The start of things to come, these thoughtfully-curated rooms, by Adrian McCarthy, a talented local designer, seamlessly incorporate subtle nods to the Brehon Hotel’s name, with elegant motifs and light. Oak flooring creates a warm, natural finish. Lovely personal touches include a bespoke keep cup and wildflower seed capsules to take home, along with honey-themed chocolates locally crafted by Lorge Chocolatier and a scroll explaining the Story of the Bees from the Brehon Laws.
Each Heritage bedroom is generously stocked with the aforementioned in-room delights (did I mention the honey-themed chocolates?), fresh milk, tea and coffee, TV and radio, as well as a Remington hair dryer and straightener. Cora toiletries are well stocked but the single-use plastics seem out of step for a hotel that is making substantial sustainability gains elsewhere.
The hotel’s Danú Restaurant provides a sense of occasion for diners, and the menu features much local produce. Breakfast included both buffet and à la carte options, but the former was so well-stocked there was little need for the latter. Bonus points for excellent gluten-free options.
Few people travel to Killarney to stay in their hotel. There is too much to explore outdoors. In addition to a jaunting car ride, on the GM’s recommendation we took a boat tour of the Lakes of Killarney with Gap of Dunloe Traditional Boat Tours (ask for Donal Dux). The Anú Spa at the hotel offered the ideal place to reheat after two hours on the lakes. A Destress Massage and Indian Head Massage were the icing on the cake.
The Heritage Double Rooms are a €40 supplement on the B&B rate of the day.
- The Hotel Examiner was a guest of The Brehon Hotel & Spa
While 4pm check in is fast becoming industry standard, and for good logistical reasons, the result for guests can be a feeling of being a little shortchanged. Even one hour earlier would add further warmth to the welcome.
The Brehon takes accessibility seriously. It was great to see a wheelchair user comfortably enjoy the pool and spa facilities while we were there.
Interconnecting family rooms offer greater comfort for parents and children. While the pool area is strictly over 18s, families can use next door Gleneagles’ pool and leisure facilities for a nominal fee.
Dogs are welcome in the Flesk River apartments, and dining with pets is allowed on the lawn. Flat fee of €40 if a dog is staying in the apartments, only dogs under 10kg allowed.
The hotel has just signed a deal to install six chargers including a Fast Charger to be in place by late September.
- The Brehon Hotel & Spa, Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland www.thebrehon.com