Entering the grounds at Glin Castle is like traveling back to another time as you make your way along tree lined lawns towards the stark white castle. The castles interior is just as carefully furnished with a traditional feel, without seeming old or worn.

The popular restaurant has a large menu of modern Irish cuisine which combines old recipes with contemporary preparations and great local produce. An after-dinner walk in the castles walled gardens is also a necessary treat of any stay here. The nearby Shannon estuary is a popular fishing spot while golfers will wish to play a round at the nearby Ballybunion Golf Club.

For some extra pampering on your vacation, a stay at the Ballygarry House Hotel has the added benefit of enjoying the co-located spa with traditional seaweed baths, thermal treatment suites and the ubiquitous mud wraps.

These treatments are complemented nicely by the selection of comfortable guest rooms with views across the manor gardens. The award winning restaurant is also worth special mention for its menu of classic dishes, lovingly prepared using the best seafood, meat and produce from within Kerry.

Finally, the 12-room Ballyseede Castle is a unique experience due to its divine architecture and luxurious bathrooms. Given its small size it can make for a very personable stay. Each individually designed guest room has a classic elegance and the common and dining rooms sport extravagant plasterwork and ornate fireplaces.

The tourist trail around Kerry is rightly popular for its great scenery and selection of romantic villages. Any of the above hotels in Ballybunion would make a truly memorable location to base oneself while exploring this most beautiful county in Ireland.

The Tir Gan Ean hotel is a 4 star boutique hotel that has been a remarkable addition to the area. The Celtic styled exterior is matched inside by funky decor and plasma screens. The 12 guest rooms are large and contemporary in design and it is clear no expense was spared on fittings, under floor heating, etc.

The friendly staff make this a most personable place to stay and the hotel breakfast is not to be missed for its menu of culinary treats (scrambled egg with Burren smokehouse salmon and home-made banana bread to name just two).

The old darling of Doolin has got to be the country manor style Aran View House Hotel. The beautiful building and manicured perfectly reflect the picturesque views out to the Aran Islands (visible from all west facing rooms).

The 19 guest rooms have kept their traditional furnishings, without being tatty or worn, and the restaurant makes great use of the seafood (landed daily at Doolin harbor) and local produce on its menu of culinary delights. As if that wasn’t enough the hotel bar plays host in summer to musicians playing traditional Irish music (something the town is famous for).

Finally, in the heart of town lies the Ballyvara Guest House. This hotel can cater to all manner of group types and sizes with its range of twin, double, family, luxury suites and studio guest rooms. All rooms are kitted out with power showers and modern amenities while some even sport spa/Jacuzzi baths.

Any visitor to Doolin Ireland will love to explore the attractions along the coast. Any of the hotels in Doolin listed above would make a great base from which to start your exploring and also enjoy the great food that the area is famous for.