Payments made by partners impact the order of prices displayed. Room types may vary.
The listings of booking offers for each property take into account the compensation paid to us by our partners. Prices shown may be for varying room types. Prices displayed are the lowest available, corresponding to the least expensive room type available, as provided from our partners as of the time of the user’s search.
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ballinalacken Castle Hotel Doolin is a 4 star hotel and one of the leading Castle Hotels in Ireland with views of the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands. This Clare Hotel has an award winning restaurant and is the best place to eat in Doolin. It would be difficult to find a more beautiful place on the West Coast of Ireland in which to wake up. The Ballinalacken Castle Hotel has been described in the press as one of the finest located houses in Europe. Our guest rooms offer spectacular panoramic views of the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher and Galway Bay. A 15th Century Castle ruin of the O'Brien Clan stands imposingly beside the Ballinalacken Hotel.
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to Giata.
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
This summary was created by AI, based on recent reviews.
Powered by AI
Ballinalacken Castle Country House Hotel emerges as a favored retreat for its warm service and inviting atmosphere, blending Irish charm with historical elegance. Guests laud the hotel's spotless rooms and comfortable amenities, set against the backdrop of stunning scenery near attractions like the Cliffs of Moher.
While the old-fashioned keys are noted as a minor inconvenience, the overall experience, including the exceptional dining and picturesque views, is often described as offering great value and a memorable stay.
Location
Picturesque
Atmosphere
Inviting
Rooms
Comfortable
Value
Remarkable
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Outstanding
Was this helpful?
Tripadvisor is not responsible for this summary or the opinions in it. For more information, please read the traveller reviews and learn more about how the site works.
We had a fantastic stay at Ballinalacken on the 29th May 2022 - after an afternoon sea kayaking in Ballyvaughan, it was a short drive to the hotel where we enjoyed a pre dinner drink in the beautiful gardens followed by an amazing meal in the restaurant. Food was absolutely delicious, particularly the scallops. The rooms were extremely comfortable - we had only one night away to celebrate our wedding anniversary, free of kids, and it felt like such a treat. After a lovely breakfast, we relaxed in the room before a short spin to Fanore beach, a walk up Black loop head and a dip in the sea. A fantastic location, staff were all lovely and food delicious - well recommend.
Read more
Date of stay: May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
From the moment I arrived at Ballinalacken castle country house, I was struck by the beauty of the surroundings—lush gardens, scenic views, and the tranquil sound of nature everywhere. The staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive, ensuring that every need was met with genuine warmth and care. The room was spacious, spotless and carefully decorated. The bed was one of the most comfortable I have ever slept in and the breakfast was exceptional. I would highly recommend this place
Read more
Date of stay: October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
This hotel is a highlight of Doolin. Cecilia and Declan clearly take so much pride in making sure their guests have everything they need. It truly felt like staying with family. The hotel is beautiful, and the restaurant is great! Definitely the castle tour is a can't miss -- Declan shares the history with incredible detail and personal connection. Thank you for an amazing stay!
Read more
Date of stay: September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What a wonderful stay in the Doolin area! Declan and his team did not disappoint with their warm personalities, excellent suggestions, and deliciously prepared food. We loved the intimate nature and the ability to get to know the other guests at dinner or in one of the sitting rooms. Additionally, Declan gave a wonderful tour of the family castle remains!
Read more
Date of stay: June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Without exaggeration this is one of the best experiences I have ever had. The grounds and views are breathtaking and every single of the staff/owners went above and beyond at all possible stages.
The food by itself is enough reason to come (unbelievable— truly every piece of it, both times we ate here, were absolutely delightful. We enjoyed crab, steak, duck, and more at incredibly reasonable rates.) I will be dreaming of the steak for months to come.
Another boon is the care that is given from the moment you book. We received a courtesy email explaining that we may want to reserve a table ahead of time based on the days we booked, which we did. Our room was upgraded without request— I have to assume because it was our honeymoon but honestly that act is entirely in line with the rest of our experience. We were sitting outside enjoying the view from the picnic table and someone came out to turn on the table lamp for us unprompted so we could have a nice experience.
Most impressively still, we came in late after a much extended trip from Dublin. I called ahead to see if we could order food to have waiting since we would miss the kitchen hours and couldn’t hope to both find dinner and make it to the hotel at a reasonable hour. I’d called earlier and ordered champagne to the room on arrival, but what I was shocked by was that they had held the kitchen back to have dinner ready for us. We got to choose between the bar and our room and selected our room to eat in because of the hour. It was warm, delicious, and a welcome sight after the journey.
The castle was amazing. The sunset from the top of the castle was amazing. The Guinness at the bar was amazing. Everything was amazing. It would be a monumental disservice to yourself if you have the opportunity to come out here and don’t take it.
We can’t wait to be back for our five year or whenever we’re back in the country (whichever is sooner!)
Thank you so much for making this the best leg of our honeymoon so far.
- Lindsey
Read more
Date of stay: October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The views are stunning....they literally look like something from the Irish Board of Tourism. You can see the Cliffs of Moher and the Atlantic while enjoying a great Irish breakfast or dining on fresh sea bass for dinner. The rooms, beautifully appointed in decor from the 19th century (house built in 1840) are good sized and very comfortable. In fact, our bed was the most comfortable of any in our two week vacation. And Ballinalacken Castle Country House does indeed have its own castle. Make sure you sign up for a late afternoon tour with Declan. You will find it fascinating. And, most importantly, Cecilia and Declan are the consummate Irish hosts! They define Irish hospitality.
Read more
Date of stay: September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayed one night at this country manor, secluded off the road, which is really like a mansion full of bedrooms, a stately dining room, and sitting areas with beautiful grounds and the ruins of Ballinalacken castle! The owner gave us a small group tour of the castle, taking us up several levels to the very top for a panorama view of the countryside. It was pretty amazing! We also enjoyed dinner in their restaurant and breakfast the next morning was excellent with the best scones we had during our entire trip. A really charming place and though we enjoyed two rooms for my family, it is perfect for a romantic get away for couples.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We stayed one night; the food was very delicious and the staff was very friendly and kind. We also got a upgrade - the room was really special because they restaurated the old furniture which is so cool! You can get a historical flair in this historical building. All in all we recommend the hotel and we will definitely choose this place again!
Read more
Date of stay: June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We were absolute stunned when we drove up to the house. The views were spectacular, rolling hills and the Cliffs of Moher from our room window. The on-sight castle tour was such a bonus! They have the coziest bar with plenty of Jameson and Smithwick's to relax after a long day exploring Doolin. The full Irish breakfast was delicious and served in a beautiful sun room where I could've spent the whole day happily drinking coffee. This should be a must stop on anyone's itinerary when they visit Ireland.
Read more
Date of stay: April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This is such a special place and truly one of our favorite spots we have ever stayed! Perched above the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren with spectacular views, you feel welcome and relaxed the minute you arrive. The hosts are incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, professional and kind. Incredible tour of the medieval castle that sits next to the property! The food was fresh, local and beyond delicious. I can’t remember having better food anywhere in the world . Thank you O’Callaghans for a wonderful stay! Can’t wait to come back!
Read more
Date of stay: June 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Crown Point, New York73 contributions58 helpful votes
I agree that it's best to drive to town. We walked from the hotel to the Doolin Cave, which is really close by and on the road to Doolin town. But we felt like we were taking our lives into our hands because the road was so narrow, with no shoulder to step off onto if a car came by. Plus, the road is pretty curvy, so sightlines are bad.
Hi all ,
We are a four star hotel with a restaurant and a full bar which includes cider and Guinness .As it is a family run hotel there is always a member of the family delighted to fill a drink for the guests.
Hi there!
There are taxis in town but not many, the pubs in town are great but the restaurant in the hotel is one of the best in the area. Pub in the hotel is VERY quiet and you'll find you're often the only one there, but it's very quaint and the service is good. No live music in the hotel pub.
The actual town has a few really good pubs, and it's the centre of music so you'll find it all good fun. Recommend O'Connor's and McGann's (locals' favourites).
Enjoy!
There are more places to choose from in the Doolin area.
PRICE RANGE
€251 - €282 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
ballinalacken castle country house hotel doolin, ballinalacken castle country hotel, ballinalacken castle country doolin
LOCATION
IrelandProvince of MunsterCounty ClareThe BurrenDoolin
NUMBER OF ROOMS
15
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect nightly room rates, including all taxes and fees known to our partners. Please see our partners for more details.
Is This Your Tripadvisor Listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
