There's much more to Ireland for kids to enjoy than shamrocks and leprechauns. Many Irish hotels offer family-friendly accommodations to appeal to visitors traveling with children. And unlike the mythical leprechauns, your kids will actually get to enjoy playing with the real attractions that these hotels offer. Choose from historical adventure or modern fun and explore the Emerald Isle in locations the whole family can enjoy.
Give the kids a real-life Harry Potter experience by staying in a centuries-old medieval castle on a sprawling 450-acre estate. Located on the Ballynahinch River on the mountainous western coast near Galway, the Ballynahinch Castle offers families a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities as well as richly historical interior accommodations. The hotel has bicycles available for exploring the scenic surroundings and guides hiking tours of the estate can be arranged. Pony trekking along the coastal beaches is a popular family attraction. The kids can try their hands at catching sea trout and salmon in the river or sailing down the river and along the Atlantic coast. The hotel offers 40 rooms, most with mountain and river views. A children's menu is available in the restaurant.
Ballynahinch Castle
Recess, Connemara
Co. Galway, Ireland
353-95-31006
ballynahinch-castle.com
Set in the sprawling countryside 90-miles south of Dublin, the Mount Juliet Estate offer upscale accommodations and diverse activity programs for kids of all ages. The 1,500 acre estate features lush gardens and natural vistas near the banks of the Nore River. Children can enjoy horseback riding at a state-of-the-art equestrian center, pottery classes, golf and fishing lessons, and exploring the estate grounds. A recreation center and kids' clubs boasts pool tables, video games and a swimming pool. Babysitting and organized daycare activities are available for parents seeking some alone time. The hotel features 31 luxury rooms and suites.
Mount Juliet
Thomastown
Co. Kilkenny, Ireland
353-056-777-3000
mountjuliet.ie
The Quality Hotel Killarney offers families an affordable getaway anytime in Ireland's southeastern hills. The hotel features a variety of accommodation types from one-bedroom suites to family apartments and holiday homes. Choose from self-catering options or enjoy casual burger and steak fare in the hotel's restaurant which also features and extensive children's menu. An on-site health and leisure club offers a heated indoor pool, a toddler and children's pool as well as spa services for the adults. Early evening entertainment is complimentary and may consist of puppet shows, magicians, street-style theater or circus acts.
Quality Hotel Killarney
Cork Road
Co. Kerry, Ireland
353-64-6626200
qualitykillarney.com
