The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens

The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
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The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens photo 1
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens photo 2

About

A five-star hotel set on a 64-acre estate overlooking the Gap of Dunloe, where subtropical gardens, 12th-century castle ruins, and complimentary horse riding, fishing, and tennis are all part of the stay. Currently closed for a major renovation — check the website for reopening dates.

Things to Do

Explore the Subtropical Gardens

Walk around the world in an hour through gardens planted with Chilean firs, Australian gums, South African lilies, New Zealand cabbage trees, Japanese maples, and a Killarney strawberry tree. Camellias, magnolias, and rhododendrons flourish in the sheltered grounds around the medieval castle ruins. Guided tours are available on request.

Visit the 12th-Century Dunloe Castle Ruins

Manicured pathways lead through the estate to the shell of MacThomas' medieval keep on the banks of the River Laune. The ruined Norman castle, dramatically set against the mountains of the Ring of Kerry, is the historic heart of the estate.

Complimentary Horse Riding

Take a 10–15 minute guided trek around the grounds on the hotel's famous Haflinger Ponies — a gentle Austrian breed ideal for children and beginners. Riding operates on a casual, no-reservation basis and is complimentary for guests.

Indoor Swimming & Leisure

A 25-metre heated indoor pool with garden and countryside views, plus a sauna, steam room, and TechnoGym fitness centre. Two indoor tennis courts and table tennis are also available, all complimentary for guests.

Follow the Fairy Trail

The largest fairy trail in Kerry, with 20 fairies hidden throughout the gardens, each with its own personality. Lovingly crafted by The Irish Fairy Door Company — a magical adventure for young children. A dedicated trail map is available.

Fish the River Laune

The River Laune runs through the hotel grounds and fishing is complimentary for guests. Rods are available from reception. Order a picnic basket and spend an afternoon on the riverbank — the kitchen will even cook your catch for dinner.

Adventure Playground & Kids' Club

An extensive outdoor playground with slides, swings, and monkey bars on safe rubber matting, plus an indoor playroom with toys, games, and a large-screen Wii. During summer, the complimentary Kids' Club runs daily (10am–12pm & 5:30pm–9pm) for ages 3+, and movie nights screen two films each evening with popcorn.

Dine at The Grill Restaurant

The Grill Restaurant showcases local produce and creative Irish cuisine in a striking setting with double-height picture windows framing the Gap of Dunloe. Breakfast is served 7am–10:30am and dinner 6pm–9:30pm (seasonal). The bar and terrace serve food from 12pm–5pm.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Hotel traditionally open April–October (October: weekends only, Thursday–Saturday). Currently closed for renovation — check website for reopening date.
  • Admission: Hotel stay from €290 B&B per room per night. Activities (pool, tennis, horse riding, fishing, gym) are complimentary for guests.
  • Parking: Complimentary on-site parking directly at the hotel.
  • Food: The Grill Restaurant (breakfast 7am–10:30am, dinner 6pm–9:30pm seasonal, à la carte). Bar & terrace (food 12pm–5pm). Picnic baskets available to order for fishing trips. 24-hour room service.

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