Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) welcomes three Irish charms to the brand this month. These wonderful gems span Cork City, Kenmare and Killarney and, as with true Celtic symbolism, represent three great reasons to explore Irish soil. Choose to stay at one of these hotels or combine all for an Irish trip of lifetime.
Country House Hotel
Cahernane House Hotel (Killarney, Ireland)
48 rooms from EUR279 per night B&B
Beautifully situated on a private estate at the edge of the rugged Killarney National Park, yet walking distance to the Killarney city centre, the tranquil 48-bedroom Cahernane House Hotel overlooks moss-covered, rolling landscapes; majestic mountains and the beautifully reflective Killarney Lakes. Discovering natural wildlife via horseback riding, boating, cycling or fishing, the only sounds that may be heard are the lambs bleating or the birds singing. Wind down from a day of exploratory activities with a romantic two AA Rosette fine dining experience in The Herbert Restaurant, including local delights from Dingle crab to Farranfore strawberries and free-range pork belly to Kerry spring lamb burgers. Finish the evening with signature cocktail, ‘The Herbert’ from The Cellar Bar, located in the property’s original basement wine cellar. Originally built in 1877 as a family residence for noble figure Henry Herbert, with a history dating back to the 1600s, guests will enjoy revelling in the old-world charm of the ivy-covered Manor House, boasting historical artefacts and original antiques. The plush bespoke bedrooms feature decadent wallpaper, sash windows and elegant mouldings, and many of the bathrooms feature claw feet free-standing baths, transporting you to an erstwhile era.
SLH Insider tip: Cahernane House Hotel is steeped in history, dating back as far as 1656. Step back in time with a historical tour of the house, given by General Manager Emer Corridan, each evening, on request.
City Centre Hotel
The Lansdowne Kenmare (Kenmare, Ireland)
28 rooms from EUR196 per night
One of the oldest landmarks in Kenmare, The Lansdowne Kenmare was originally built as the town residence of the 2nd Earl of Shelbourne. Purchased during lockdown by multi-hyphenate TV personality brothers John and Francis Brennan, the hotel was lovingly reimagined and reopened in July last year. Today, it is a beacon welcoming guests to wander the streets of the quaint Heritage Town of Kenmare and explore the spectacular scenery surrounding it. It offers 28 charming bedrooms, with a calm and stylish décor, providing all the luxury comforts, including Francis Brennan’s own luxury linen and towel collection.
There are several dining options, including The LK Café, serving speciality coffee and sweet treats. The Dining Bar Terrace, headed by Chef Paul Walsh, is reminiscent of a French brasserie, using the finest local produce. The hotel’s latest opening is the Piano Lounge, where Champagne and Cocktails are served in a stylish setting with live piano thrown in at weekends.
Amazing scenery, fresh air, great restaurants, real pubs, and quirky local shops are all part of an escape to this special corner of Kerry. The calming style of this town hotel is perfect for unwinding at the end of a day sightseeing, walking or simply doing nothing but browsing the streets and shops of Kenmare.
SLH Insider Tip: Go where the locals go! Tour the gorgeous Ring of Beara which is a leisurely Day Trip from Kenmare. Stunning scenery, coastal towns, art galleries, gardens, island visits and more.
City Centre Hotel
The Montenotte Hotel (Cork City, Ireland)
107 rooms from EUR295 per night B&B
City centre escapism doesn’t get much better than a stay at Cork’s The Montenotte Hotel. Swathed in a striking blue façade, the chic and design-led hotel brims with vibrant interiors. Think pops of colour married with luxurious velvet furniture interspersed within the hotel’s 107 fully-equipped luxury rooms and suites. You’ll find everything you need under the 18-century roof, from cinema to swimming pool and spa. The Glasshouse, Montenotte’s new art-deco rooftop bar, has views to be enjoyed over a glass of inspired cocktails. Try the 
‘Coffeenotte,’ a punchy take on an Espresso Martini or ‘The Royal Rose’ using a bespoke Montenotte Gin. Literally taking it up a level is The Panorama Bistro leading to the spectacular Panorama Terrace, which overlooks postcard-worthy views of Cork city and the hotel’s sunken Victoria Gardens. Only a 15-minute-walk away is the buzzing centre of Cork, where you’ll find a host of outdoor experiences from stand-up paddle boarding to cycle tours and harbour cruises. If it all gets too much, head back to the hotel and enjoy the cool in-house Cameo Cinema or the fully equipped Motion Health Club with an indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and gym. The hotel’s award-winning Bellevue Spa is a place to indulge with six treatment rooms and plenty of revitalising treatments, from facials to holistic therapies.
SLH Insider Tip: The original building of The Montenotte Hotel was formerly home to one of the Merchant Princes of Cork over 200 years ago, and its heritage was reaffirmed when the sunken Victorian gardens were rediscovered in early 2017. The wonder of this garden was hidden due to overgrowth but thanks to the owners’ labour of love, it has been restored to its former glory with exceptional views overlooking Cork city and harbour.
