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.
This award is our highest recognition and is presented annually to those businesses that are the Best of the Best on Tripadvisor, those that earn excellent reviews from travellers and are ranked in the top 1% of properties worldwide.
The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is a magnificent 5* hotel situated in Beaufort, Co. Kerry overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe and a short drive from the town of Killarney. This leading five star property is set on its own 64 acre estate with manicured pathways leading the way to the River Laune and to the ruins of the 13th century Dunloe castle. The hotel boasts 102 luxurious guest bedrooms, most with a spacious balcony or terrace offering breath-taking views of the mountains and the surrounding parkland. The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens offers a wealth of activities including complimentary trekking on Haflinger Ponies, swimming and indoor tennis. Fishing for guests is complimentary on the River Laune. A kids club and movie night programme runs for children throughout the summer months. The magical Fairy Trail on the grounds of The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is also not to be missed.
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
Nestled in an idyllic setting, The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens is celebrated for its pristine cleanliness and a romantic atmosphere that harmonizes with the natural beauty around it. Guests often commend the attentive and professional service, especially during special occasions.
While the amenities receive high marks for their range and family-friendly options, opinions on the hotel's value and room decor vary; some guests find the accommodations to be a bit dated and lacking in soundproofing despite enjoying the picturesque views.
Atmosphere
Charming
Rooms
Dated
Value
Reasonable
Cleanliness
Spotless
Service
Attentive
Amenities
Comprehensive
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.
My husband and I cannot thank the staff of The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens enough for making our wedding day so special last August. Niamh & Jason were always available to answer any query we had due to the vast amount of knowledge, experience & professionalism they have.
We had both our ceremony & reception at the Dunloe. We had a choice of ceremony location in one of the many beautiful private spots in their garden or indoors in one of their two conference suites. We had chosen an outdoor wedding ceremony however unfortunately the weather was not in our favour & Niamh had everything quickly rearranged the night before to the indoor setting as if it was always the plan! We were never nervous of how our day would go as we knew we were in such good hands. The Gin drinks reception was a hit with our guests as was the location it was held in. The views of the Gap of Dunloe from the first level & the incredible decor gave everyone something to talk about & take beautiful pictures. Our reception area was decorated beautifully and the wedding flowers that we had for our ceremony were delicately incorporated into our table arrangements.
The food is something we must also remark on. It is hands down the best wedding meal that we and the majority of our guests have ever had. Our guests are still commenting on the menu and the flowing wine. The banqueting staff were so efficient and friendly which contributed to such as relaxed atmosphere at the reception.
It was never an issue booking our wedding guests into rooms as the reception staff were so helpful & understanding. They have a good choice of rooms to cater to individual needs. (family rooms, twin, disabled access) The guest rooms and bridal suite were so comfortable & exceptionally clean.
I cannot recommend this venue enough. We will be forever grateful for the memories The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens helped us to create.
Rebecca & Tom 10/08/2019.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2019
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Get mountain view if available!
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 spent 3 nights and had an amazing time. This hotel deserves to be known and congratulated. The family rooms are spacious and perfect for 2 adults and 3 children. The kids bedroom is very safe as it doesn't have any doors accessing the hall. Rooms are modern and very clean. Housekeeping is amazing changing towels and bringing chocolates and mineral water every day. The breakfast is plentiful. Was worried as my kids are fussy but they loved it. The breakfast menu is perfect ranging from sweet to savoury to vegan. The restaurant feels very spacious and very safe regarding Covid restrictions. The dinner was truly amazing. Local products and skilled chefs. I spotted a chef collecting fresh herbs from the garden one afternoon. Truly amazed by the dedication. The hotel also offers so many activities, lovely pool, nice playground, beautiful gardens and trails. We even tried horse riding. A big thanks to the stables where the staff was really nice and understanding as my son was petrified. We even tried fishing in the river. Thanks to the staff who always welcomed us and couldn't do more. One of the best family breaks we had. The Dunloe has the 5 star touch but yet feels intimate and cosy, perfect for families. Would highly recommend to anybody looking for a taste of luxury and yet wants peace and quiet and feel at home.
Read more
Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: June 2021
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
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.
Response from , General Manager at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Responded 26 Jun 2021
Dear Lizzie49Colin, Hope you are well. Thank you for taking the time to post such a positive review about your recent stay. I am delighted to read that the whole family enjoyed their time with us and got the chance to enjoy all of the facilities we have to offer. I will be sure to pass on your kind words to our Restaurant and Kitchen Team. They will be delighted to hear your lovely comments. I hope to welcome you back to The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens in the near future. Kind Regards Jason Clifford General Manager
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A lot to digest? Read an AI-generated summary of recent traveller reviews.
I can't understand how anybody would fault this hotel. It is a 100% five star experience. I was worried to read some revies that rooms were dated but this is untrue. The decor of the rooms is very classic with carpets and medium dark wood furniture, but in pristine condition as this hotel has been reburnished. Not a scuff mark to be seen anywhere. We had a superior room on the 4th floor which was pure luxury. Really large and bright with big windows and patio door to balcony and a gorgeous view. A large bathroom with separate bath and walk in shower and a large storage, dressing room area at the entrance with its own full length mirror. Complimentary chocolates were sent up on arrival, a lovely touch as we were celebrating my birthday. The staff at this hotel are exceptional, especially at reception and in the dining room. They are extremely courteous, professional and nothing is too much trouble. The food is also top class, we had breakfast and dinner. My only quibble would be the decor of the dining room but that's a personal thing. In a five star hotel I would prefer more traditional with elaborate napery and table ware and a smaller dining room, or one more partitioned for a cosier, more intimate feel. Here the decor is very ultra modern. It is huge and open plan with very modern table placements which I would find just a little cold. The restaurant overlooks the beautiful Gap of Dunloe which is breathtaking and we were lucky to get a window table at breakfast. But far from the window or after dark you don't have that experience. But overall this hotel is just fabulous, I'd highly recommend it and go back in a heartbeat. Roll on the next birthday!
Read more
Date of stay: August 2022
Value
Rooms
Service
Room Tip:Superior rooms on the upper floors.
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.
Spent 5 nights here August 2021, weather was not great but the hotel made up for it. Its a short drive to the Gap of Dunloe itself, we got the horse and carriage up to save the kids walking. Nice trip, but for adults i would advise walking up half way to the coffee stop to really appreciate the amazing scenery. Our kids particularly liked going on the ponies after breakfast, the kids club and LOVED the swimming pool (my son says it was massive and quite empty in the morning)! The playground is good and the walk around the grounds and fairy trail is just lovely, really nice after a big dinner in the restaurant. Food was great, one thing i would like is more salad, vegan or lighter dinner options, after 5 nights you crave it! Considering covid restrictions everything worked really well, we also had interconnecting rooms which i would highly recommend for couples with kids. All in all, highly recommend this lovely hotel in a beautiful location.
Read more
Date of stay: August 2021
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip:Choose interconnecting with kids!
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 could not speak more highly of Niamh, Jason and all the team at The Dunloe for how well we were treated throughout our wedding journey! From the first meeting, Niamh accommodated multiple visits, questions and amendments - they could not have done more to make us feel at ease with all aspects of the day. The menu tasting was one of the highlights of the run up to the wedding - the attention to detail and care that was taken with us was second to none. We had our photos taken in their beautiful gardens, which was such a bonus not having to travel anywhere else. So many of our guests complimented on the quality of the food and service provided. Throughout the entire wedding day the team were on hand to make sure everything ran smoothly- they really are experts. We could not rate The Dunloe higher!
Read more
Date of stay: August 2019
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
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.
My Partner and I decided to Stay in The Dunloe after having an amazing experience in their sister Hotel, "The Europe Hotel"
We stayed here from the 10th of June to the 12th of June.
We booked a Superior Parkland Room which in comparison to the Europe Superior Lakeview Room that we booked lacked a few finer details that I would Expect in a 5 star Hotel. Dont get me wrong the bed was amazing, the room was spacious and the views where amazing but comparing to other 5 star hotels we stayed in it seemed it lacked a finer touch. There was also a second single bed in the room that made no sense why this was here as it looked like the bed was potentially added for the last person who stayed there. As we didn't mention this to the staff we cant fault them on it as we didn't give them a chance to explain or correct the issue.
The dinner we had was OK, Think that was down to our personal preference though so cant fault them there. The breakfast was amazing and the latte at breakfast was delightful.
One big issue we faced is we got a call to our room saying we were late for our massages. However, I double checked and we were not late we were waiting in our room with 30 mins to spare. I explained it to the message therapist and they were lovely. Its just a pity that they don't have a spa. You receive your treatment in a side room near the pool. Not something you would think of in a 5 star hotel.
Another big plus was the bar. Their cocktails were amazing pity they were out of Guinness when we arrived. However, they corrected this so quickly it was impressive. Assume they located a Keg or two from their Sister hotels.
The horses in the field, the gardens and views are amazing. Cant fault this, my sister got engaged in the gardens here, which was the main reason why we decided to stay here. However, could be an element of why we love the Europe so much as my partner and I got engaged here.
However, the side building where there is a tennis court and I'm assuming is a children's club was in terrible condition looked like something from the 90s.
Overall I would give the hotel 4 stars however, as its a 5 star hotel I feel i have to compare it to the Europe. Therefore I would give it a three stars. As a couple I dont get the feeling of oh my god I cant wait to stay here again, but more of a tick the box of oh ya we tried there. However, if you are a family that can afford to stay here I would defiantly recommend this hotel, especially if ya have a dog as they are pet friendly.
I really feel the Hotel is a 4 star that pushed the requirements to what is required to be a 5 star.
I would advise not to give this hotel a miss as you do have the chance of loving it. But ya could save a couple €100 by booking a 4 star.
Glad we stayed here, but wouldn't revisit. However, I still recommend people to give it ago in case this is just my opinion.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2021
Rooms
Cleanliness
Service
Room Tip:Couple go for the Europe. Families try the Dunloe.
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.
Response from , General Manager at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Responded 24 Sept 2021
Dear David D, Thank you for taking the time to leave such an extensive review of the Hotel. I was pleased to read your compliments of our Superior rooms. Since your stay we have added in Nespresso facilities in all our bedrooms. I am delighted that you enjoyed the views, the gardens and the horses, the foals can be very entertaining during breakfast! I do hope you had time to avail of our complimentary horse riding while you were staying with us. With regards your treatment time I apologize that you were disturbed in your room. On reviewing our treatment calendar for the day your appointment was scheduled for 30 mins earlier than the time you had thought it was but I am glad you were facilitated and you enjoyed the experience. At present we only have treatment rooms but we have plans to add a Spa in the future refurbishments. Once again I would like to thank you for taking the time to share your experiences, From reading your review the positives thankfully outweigh the negatives and we hope that you will return to stay with us again in the near future. Kind Regards Jason Clifford General Manager
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Throughout our engagement our friends and family had stressed to us how hard it is to relax and enjoy your wedding day. Thankfully, this was not the case for us as Clodagh, Jason and all the staff and The Dunloe Hotel and Gardens made it such a magical and memorable day for us. Our wedding was the first in the hotel for over a year - making it their first ‘covid’ wedding. This may have been challenging to prepare for but there were no signs that any of the staff were out of practice. In fact, we have never stayed at a hotel with staff who were more polite, friendly and accommodating. Their service was of the highest quality. Our guests stayed there for three nights and all commented on how spacious, clean and comfortable the rooms were - not the mention the breathtaking views. We had breakfast, lunch and dinner in the hotel for three days and the quality of the food and service never ceased to amaze us. It should be on everybody’s to-do list to take a walk around the grounds as they are so relaxing and peaceful. The commitment that Clodagh and Jason gave to ensure our wedding day was perfect was exemplary. It felt like we were their sole priority despite them also carrying out their other duties of running a five star hotel. The Dunloe is equally suitable for a couples getaway or family break. Our little girl loved every minute, in particular the complimentary pony trekking. We would like to say a big thank you to Clodagh, Jason and all the staff for the most amazing experience. It was far beyond what we could have dreamt of. The Dunloe Hotel will always hold a special place in our hearts and we cannot wait to return for our next stay in the near future. Lori & Brian
Read more
Date of stay: June 2021Trip type: Travelled with family
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.
Response from , General Manager at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Responded 26 Jun 2021
Dear Lori and Brian, Hope you are both well and enjoying your honeymoon. Thank you for taking the time to post a review of your Wedding with us here at The Dunloe. I was delighted to read that you and all your guests enjoyed the celebration. Mias introduction of here Mommy and Daddy to the room was breathtaking. I have to say the pleasure was all ours and we really look forward to welcoming you all back in the near future. Kind Regards Jason Clifford General Manager
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed at the hotel which was very nice however I’m giving my star based on our experience with bringing a dog with us.
When we arrived at the hotel we were greeted outside and I entered the hotel while my wife was escorted across a field to the dog entrance with our dog. Once we entered the hotel the doggy shower was conveniently located beside the entrance but the included cleaning products supplied was Fairy liquid. The hairdryer plug was not working either unfortunately.
On the second day we got locked outside the dog entrance as the keycard reader works by NFC but out cards we’re not set up to be read by this reader - our cards had a chip. The doggy shower was also full of flower clipping from a wedding this day.
On the third day we went to the front desk to see if there was a second entrance to bring our dog out as the night before there was a thunder storm and the field we had to walk across was soaked. At reception we were greeted by the general manager who offered little help except advised us to wait for the field to dry.
Unfortunately this hotel is not a 5 star experience if you bring a dog with you.
Read more
Date of stay: October 2022Trip type: Travelled as a couple
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.
Response from , General Manager at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Responded 28 Apr 2023
Dear DanQ86, Thanks you for your review, I am sorry to read of your dissatisfaction as this is not what we wish for any of our customers. My apologies that you were not satisfied with the separate entrance to the Dog Friendly rooms as there is a path/Terrace leading to this entrance door that is open during office hours and closed thereafter. With regards to your departure I personally offered to escort your dog via the dog entrance or if you wanted to wait until the showers passed you were more than welcome. This way you were free to exit via the main entrance and remain dry. As we do not allow dogs through any of the main areas of the hotel for health and safety reasons. My apologies if I did not make my offering clear to you. I hope that you enjoyed everything else about your stay and that we have the opportunity to welcome you back in the future. We do not Offer Dog Friendly accommodation anymore but we do have luxurious kennels with a day area, toys and treats for the dogs. Kind Regards Jason Clifford General Manager
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed at the Dunloe for 3 nights in June and had a good stay overall.
Pros The grounds are stunning complete with horses galloping, a fairy trail, a playground - really stunning setting. The rooms are huge, particularly the upgraded rooms which face the gap of dunloe and very comfortable. Food in the restaurant including wine was exceptional with stunning views and great atmosphere.
Cons Our initial room didn't have a privacy screen and was overlooked by several balconies - we were accommodated in another room as was midweek but I highly recommend upgrading from the get go. The food options were limited with only one restaurant operational when we stayed. This isn't enough variety for a 3 night stay. Room service took over an hour to arrive. Staff were poorly trained and we had multiple sub par experiences at breakfast and dinner and at check in where the receptionist sent us on a wild goose chase looking for our room, not before he made us sit until 5pm waiting for our room with no complimentary drink to ease the pain. Concierge was a huge exception to this, he was fantastic and dropped us into town in the shuttle, recommending a great place to have a drink. Pool area needs an upgrade (which i know is slated) but great for kids I'd imagine.
All in all, great stay and good value for money given the quality but improvements could have been made as felt more like a 4 star hotel than a 5. Recommend for families as was very family friendly.
Read more
Date of stay: June 2021Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip:Book upgraded room with gap of dunloe view
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 added one night to our Killarney trip and stayed here. The hotel is beautiful and modern in design. We had lunch outside on arrival, and it was good, though the seafood chowder had too much basil oil for my liking.
The standard room was fine, but there was a heatwave at the time and there was no aircon so we were sweltered in the room. This was partially relieved by a tower fan supplied on request.
The bed was comfortable but the shower was extremely awkward to access, situated in the bath with glass panels on the sides.
Breakfast was simply wonderful. One of the best in recent times. The dining room has superb views of the Gap of Dunloe and is large and well socially distanced.
Dinner was fine and service good also.
Would certainly return but in a larger room.
The staff were very well trained.
Read more
Date of stay: July 2021
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
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.
Response from , General Manager at The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
Responded 8 Aug 2021
Dear Hableaf, Thank you for leaving a review on TripAdvisor. I am delighted that you enjoyed your overall stay. I take your comments on board with regards to having no air-conditioning but this was not a requirement in the rooms back when the hotel was built in 1965. We have refurbished the public areas and done a light refurbishment of the bedrooms but we intend to do a more substantial refurbishment on the rooms going forward and Air-conditioning is something that will be on our agenda for discussion. Thank you for your compliments of our Team which I will certainly pass on. I am also delighted to read that you will return to stay with us and we look forward to welcoming you back in the near future. Kind Regards, Jason Clifford General Manager
Read more
Report response as inappropriate
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hello Helen. Thank you for your message. The best way to travel to Killarney town is by taxi. They operate on a meter system but a fare for two people often averages at round €20. Alternatively there is a private shuttle bus called Killarney Shuttle bus. It travels from Killarney town to the Gap of Dunloe twice a day and can stop at the hotel on request. We hope to welcome you to the hotel soon!
Dear Michael,
Thank you for your message. We would be delighted to welcome you and your Newfie. However unfortunately we are closed for renovations at The Dunloe this year and will re-open in spring 2018 again. Hopefully we can welcome you then. In the meantime many thanks for your enquiry.
There are more places to choose from in the Beaufort area.
PRICE RANGE
€364 - €1,247 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
dunloe castle hotel, hotel dunloe castle, dunloe castle killarney
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Hotel Dunloe Castle
LOCATION
IrelandProvince of MunsterCounty KerryKillarneyBeaufort
NUMBER OF ROOMS
102
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.
