Exploring Ireland: A Review of 10 Distinctive Hotels Across the Emerald Isle

Dublin

The Fitzwilliam Hotel
Sleek and stylish, The Fitzwilliam Hotel offers a refreshing contrast to Dublin’s historic surroundings. Having just undergone renovations in 2024, the vibe is contemporary but not cold, with playful pops of color, plush furnishings and a welcoming staff who make you feel at home. Located right on St. Stephen’s Green, it's perfect for visitors who want to be in the middle of the action, just steps from Grafton Street’s shops and the best of Dublin’s restaurants. If you’re someone who appreciates thoughtful design and modern luxury without the stuffiness, this is your spot. Price-wise, it’s mid-range and gives excellent value for your money.

The Shelbourne
Just down the street from The Fitzwilliam, The Shelbourne is a Dublin icon and the epitome of timeless luxury. A cornerstone of Dublin’s social and political history, this five-star landmark is where the Irish Constitution was drafted in 1922. The lobby buzzes with energy — elegantly attired doormen assist business travelers in tailored suits, families celebrating milestones and visitors sipping afternoon tea beneath glittering chandeliers. The rooms blend classic elegance with contemporary comfort, and the hotel’s Horseshoe Bar is legendary for a reason (Bono has been known to pop in). The Saddle Room restaurant and the 1824 Bar (my fave, and only open to hotel guests) add to its refined charm. If you want to soak in Dublin’s history with a touch of grandeur, The Shelbourne delivers. A luxury hotel that is well worth the investment.

The College Green Hotel (formerly The Westin Dublin)
Housed in a historic former bank, The College Green Hotel balances old-world charm with a serene, polished atmosphere. The moment you step inside, there's a sense of calm — soft lighting, plush seating and a warm, welcoming staff. The heart of the hotel is the stunning Atrium Lounge, where natural light floods in from above, making it the perfect spot for a quiet afternoon tea or a glass of champagne after exploring Dublin. Located steps from Trinity College, O’Connell Street and Dublin’s cultural landmarks, it’s an excellent choice for those looking for an elegant stay with easy access to the city's most famous attractions. Pro tip: It’s also the best location if you are going during St. Patrick’s Day, since the parade passes directly in front of the hotel.

Stauntons on the Green
For travelers who love boutique hotels with personality, Stauntons on the Green is a fantastic find. This charming Georgian townhouse offers a more intimate (only 53 rooms), homey feel than Dublin’s larger hotels, with antique furnishings and a private garden that feels like a hidden oasis in the city. (A photo of my kindred spirit, Oscar Wilde, even hangs in the halls.) Overlooking St. Stephen’s Green (opposite side of the park than The Shelbourne), it’s a great choice for those who appreciate character, history and a quieter stay while still being steps from Dublin’s main attractions like the National Gallery. Not the best option for anyone with mobility issues, though, since there is no elevator in the four-story building.

Kilkenny - Mount Juliet Estate
If Downton Abbey had a more casual, Irish cousin, it might be Mount Juliet Estate. Set on 500 acres of rolling countryside, this five-star estate offers an immersive country-house experience — think roaring fires, antique furnishings and a sprawling property that invites you to explore. Whether you’re here for a round of golf, a horseback ride or a gourmet meal at the Michelin-starred Lady Helen restaurant, Mount Juliet is the kind of place where time slows down. Kilkenny’s medieval charm is just a short drive away, but you might be tempted never to leave the estate. PS. I am standing in front of Mount Juliet in my profile picture!

Cashel - Cashel Palace Hotel
The only luxury hotel in Cashel, this is a refined stay in one of Ireland’s most iconic locations. Cashel Palace was built in 1732 as a home for the Church of Ireland Archbishop Theophilus Bolton. Hiding in plain sight, it is set back from the road and you could easily drive right by if you weren’t looking for it. The hotel overlooks the legendary Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks. (You can even walk there by following the Bishop’s Walk path from the back of the hotel.) The hotel's heritage is evident throughout, from the original 18th-century grand staircase to the meticulously preserved Bishop's Buttery vaulted cellar. It was here that Richard Guinness, the Archbishop's land agent, brewed ales for the household — his son Arthur would later found the iconic Guinness brewery. After centuries of changing hands, the historic property was purchased in 2016 and painstakingly restored before opening its doors as a luxury hotel in 2022. Guests can now sip cocktails in what was once the Archbishop's private chapel, or dine in elegant rooms where Georgian aristocracy once gathered, all while surrounded by elements of the building's storied 300-year history.

Killarney

Cahernane House Hotel
Tucked away on the edge of Killarney National Park, Cahernane House Hotel feels like a secret you’re lucky enough to discover. This Victorian manor-turned-boutique-hotel retains the charm of a bygone era — wood-paneled walls, clawfoot bathtubs and a resident cat who might join you for a drink in the drawing room. The glassed-in conservatory is a dreamy spot for breakfast, overlooking the gardens and distant mountains. And since it’s only a 15-minute walk to Killarney, it’s close enough for day and night activities in town, but far enough away for quiet evenings. If you need a larger hotel with a few more modern conveniences, the Brehon Hotel directly across the street is another great choice.

Ard na Sidhe Country House
With its ivy-clad walls and fairytale setting on Caragh Lake, Ard na Sidhe feels like something out of an old Irish folktale. This small, secluded four-star country house close to the Ring of Kerry is designed for true relaxation — no TVs, no distractions, just the sound of the lake and wind through the trees. The well-kept gardens surrounding the property provide peaceful walking paths with colorful plantings and several spots to sit and enjoy lake views. Sitting rooms are filled with cozy nooks, and a fireplace in the main room is perfect for curling up with a book or a glass of Irish whiskey. One of the biggest highlights for me? The gorgeous tubs in the bathrooms — absolute heaven after a long day of traveling! If your idea of luxury is unplugging from the world, this is the place for you. Two things to note: driving here is off the beaten path, so I recommend arriving before sundown. It’s also not a great choice if you are traveling with children since the hotel caters to adults.

Doolin

Hotel Doolin
This was my most casual stay and I loved it! Doolin is known as the home of traditional Irish music, and Hotel Doolin is at the heart of it all. Inexpensive and eco-conscious, this boutique hotel was a delightful surprise in my journey. The hotel embraces its community roots with live music and food in the on-site pub, Fitz’s, every night, and their staff are some of the friendliest you’ll meet. Hotel Doolin is also Ireland’s first carbon-neutral hotel, making it an easy choice for eco-conscious travelers. A short drive from the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands ferry, and easy walking distance from town, it’s an ideal base for adventurers who also want a lively, local atmosphere.

Galway

Glenlo Abbey Hotel
Candidly, I found Galway to be a challenging place to find a great hotel, which is why I was thrilled to find Glenlo Abbey. This five-star country estate sits just outside Galway City, offering a peaceful escape while still being close to the city’s energy. The highlight? Dining in the Pullman Restaurant, set inside two original Orient Express train carriages. (Adding to the authentic railway experience, the restaurant plays a subtle background soundtrack of gentle train movement — the soft clickety-clack of wheels on tracks and distant whistles — to create the illusion you're dining on a journey through the countryside.) The rooms are elegant yet cozy, and the property offers falconry, a nine-hole golf course and lake views that make you feel a world away. If you want the charm of the countryside with easy access to Galway’s lively streets, Glenlo Abbey is an unforgettable choice.

Adare

Adare Manor
This was my most opulent hotel experience by far, which is why I wrote a separate article for my stay here. You can find it here.

Ireland's luxury hotels often book months in advance during the high season (May-September), so reserving early is key. Consider shoulder seasons (April/October) for better rates and fewer crowds while still enjoying reasonable weather. Most properties are happy to arrange private drivers—worth the splurge on narrow country roads that can be difficult to navigate. And keep in mind special experiences like falconry at castle hotels or private whiskey tastings that are wonderful add-ons to your trip. Always pack layers, even in summer, and don't skip the hotel breakfast—a proper Irish morning feast is an experience in itself. For the warmest welcome, venture beyond Dublin to discover the true heart of Irish hospitality!

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Ireland page.