Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland, promises many delights: misty mountains, ancient ruins, lakes, long sandy beaches, quiet villages and larger towns where live Irish music abounds from practically every pub. The kids will love it, not least for the 10,000 hectare park which can be explored by pony and trap, or the Macgillycuddy Reeks mountain range, home to nine out of Ireland's 10 highest peaks.
Situated on the shores of Dingle Bay, The Dingle Skellig is a large hotel with an even larger warm welcome. Many of the rooms have spectacular views over the bay, and each room is tastefully decorated and spacious. There is a Canadian hot tub in the new Spa and a host of treatments and therapies available. Families are housed on a family floor with the standard room equipped for two adults and two children and extra beds offered. Rooms with connecting doors are also available. There is a kids club, baby listening service and a special high tea hour for the kids where a buffet is served, crèche, outdoor play equipment, baby-sitter service, and cots and highchairs all within easy grasp.
The Dingle Skellig Hotel
Dingle
Co Kerry
Ireland
011-353-66 915 0200
dingleskellig.com
This modern luxury hotel is set in a 64-acre grounds and overlooks the Gap of Dunloe. The old castle ruins hidden within the estate contrast nicely with the manicured gardens and there are many activities and treatments available to keep you feeling pampered. Family rooms are for two adults with an alcove through to the sleeping area for two children, plus room for another bed and an en-suite shower room. If the outdoor adventure play area, horse riding, swimming pool or the dedicated indoor game room don't keep the kids busy, you can always whisk them off the Muckross House and Farm. Children's movies are also shown during the summer season, complete with popcorn and drinks.
Beaufort
Killarney
Co Kerry
Ireland
011-353-64 66 44111
thedunloe.com
The Killarney Court Hotel is ideally suited for those who like to explore the outdoors but also like to browse the shops, as Killarney town is within a 10-minute walk. The award-winning MacGillicuddy's pub has an old world charm, or if you prefer to be pampered, there are plenty of treatments to avail of in the Beauty and Treatment Rooms. Family rooms are for two adults and two children, bookable as a triple room. The Kids Club runs every Easter and summer, whilst the Kids Drop In room is open all year-round, with toys and games to keep your little ones amused. If you want to get out with them, there is a large play-ground in Killarney National Park, again within walking distance from the hotel.
The Killarney Court Hotel
Tralee Rd.
Killarney
Co Kerry
Ireland
011-353-64 6637070
killarneycourthotel.com
