A large Victorian building overlooking Kenmare Bay and Kerry mountains, Cork, Ireland.
At the end of the winding driveway, Kenmare Park hotel’s hulking façade of grey limestone emerges through the heavily-laden Rhododendron bushes and hidden behind its bulk is the jewel in the crown. Just beyond the neatly manicured grounds lies the Kerry mountains and Kenmare Bay. The tide lapping in response to the many seasons folding rapidly in front of your eyes. Bunny rabbit tails dart for cover as the wind whips up dark, rain-laden clouds, only to be replaced a minute later with fluffy pillows gathered round a perky sun. This is the perfect pad to kick back and watch the Irish west coast weather at its best.
Inside, this immense Victorian pile drips with old-fashioned grandeur. Gigantic oil paintings, large oak antiques adorned with chamber pots and vases and an archaic collection of objects d’art fill the hotel, reminiscent of the delightfully bonkers hoarding of a mad great aunt. A delicious log fire greets you in reception immediately tempting the idea of an aged malt whiskey.
As well as achieving old Irish charm, this hoary jem delivers an unexpected burst of modern-day glamour in the appearance of Samas – the uber-cool spa. A wild grass covered Scandi-esque eco-lodge with a sparkling interior. The pros here recommend a 3 hour experience combining the knock-out thermal suites consisting of a 40 degree thermal eternity pool open to the wilderness, steam room and tropical shower followed by a heavenly Sisley treatment defined by your skin type, and lastly being tucked into your day bed in the Relaxation Room surrendering yourself to the floor to ceiling views of the pine forest standing before you.
Having torn yourself away from the spa, follow the gentle hum of piano playing and join guests ensconced in the cosy bar before dinner. Settled in the dining room, under the striking chandelier centerpiece dripping with glass calla lilies, make your food choices from the excellent locally sourced menu swiftly before the captivating ever-changing views across the bay steal your attention away once again. After dinner, recline with a digestive in the darkened ‘Reel Room,’ a 12 seat cinema and watch a classic.
Website: http://www.parkkenmare.com
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| The grounds |
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| Wellies for guests |
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| Kenmare Bay |
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| 'The Island' at the bottom of the gardens |
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| Complimentary hotel bike hire |
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