Address: Muckross Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry. V93 E78W
We drove up the long leafy driveway, and the feeling was instant calm and serenity from the busy Killarney road that we had just turned off. The trees cleared and suddenly we were in front of a stunning historical manor house with a stationary carriage parked outside. As you enter the lobby, you are immediately struck by the warmth of the open fire, rich mahogany interior and bronze statues. I noticed a room called The Library – a room I am always drawn to for its peace and quiet, and invitation to unwind even more. I would be back later to get stuck in.
We were greeted by friendly faces (front of house) who immediately made us feel at home. As it was October 31st there were beautiful Halloween ornamentations, treats and sugar glazed apples for the taking. We were then promptly guided down the hallway and shown to our stunning and spacious (Signature) rooms for some down time before dinner.
The Bedrooms
We stayed in the Junior Suite in The Garden Wing. Each with a unique decor but each had charming antique furniture (I loved the correspondence desk in particular). Similarly, when I peeked into the “old house” each and every bedroom had a unique feel, decadent decor, with exposed beams, stunning views.
The Food
We dined in the Herbert Restaurant on the first night to experience the 5 course menu which started with a wooden box filled with a variety of fresh baked breads served with two types of butter. My favourites from the box were the feta cheese bread, and the cider treacle bread. An amuse bouche arrived next. For the starter course, I ordered the miso glazed quail which came with a black truffle vinaigrette and a delicious sweetcorn and parmesan custard. I finally made a choice on the main (not an easy feat with each dish jumping out at me as something I would love to try). So I went with the dry aged beef, short rib and it came with king oyster and caramelised shallots. The creamy mash and beef jus were perfect accompaniments. Choosing dessert was even harder, but as there was still a decent amount of wine left in the bottle I opted for the cheese board – a selection of Kerry, Cavan, and Tipperary cheeses paired with crispbreads, honey, and apple jelly. The perfect finish to an exquisite dinner. We paired our dinner with a beautiful full-bodied but gentle Chilean Merlot – would highly recommend it for any red wine drinkers.
The 5-course meal was €65 and the Chilean Merlot (Rosario) was €32.50.
One thing to note is how exemplary the service was – from the servers and waiters to restaurant managers – they operate with precision timing and almost know what you may need or want before you’ve realised it yourself!
On the second night some of us dined in the Cellar Bar – what was historically the wine cellar. I opted for room service while I caught up on some emails and recorded zoom calls. I chose the Blonde Battered Cod, with Pont Neuf Chips, Seaweed Mayonnaise, Pea & Mint Compote which I am still talking about one week on! Although it felt like I couldn’t fit any more I thought it would be rude not to sample a dessert from the array of exciting choices. The banoffee pot with the hazelnut and pistachio biscotti did not disappoint!
The total cost of the main, one side and dessert from the Cellar Bar menu was €34.00.
The Library
In The Library, there is another roaring fire, shelves filled with interesting books, paintings, lots of historical memorabilia, and a (stuffed) peacock that stood elegantly keeping a watch over the room. This was definitely a room we came back to as often as we could and every time we stepped in we noticed something fascinating that we’d not seen before. What I especially loved in the evenings with a hot drink was playing cards and board games.
The Coach House
The Coach House is a separate building on the grounds and includes eight reconfigured luxurious bedrooms too for that extra privacy and getaway feel!
Activities
There is an array to choose from. From whiskey tasting in the Cellar Bar, cycle trails, golf course nearby, a tennis court, a historical tour up to the cemetery where the founders were buried, and ample outdoor space to have team building activities – whether you want to create them yourself or enlist the help of one of the many external event teams who frequent the venue for corporate groups of all sizes. The experienced team at The Cahernane House Hotel can advise you on itineraries and a range of activities based on your wants and needs.
Hotel Star Rating – 4-star
Capacity – 48 bedrooms
Dining room capacity – Maximum 80 people. Option to book the dining room exclusively for a private party for lunch any day upwards of 30 guests
Private venue hire available You have the option to book the venue outright for one night only (except on Saturdays, then it would be a 2 nights min. stay)
Meeting Capacity – Can cater for meetings of 2 to 60 people
Accessibility Wheelchair users can access the hotel from the atrium. There is one accessible bedroom. All floors except the top floor of the Manor House are accessible.
Packages All based on client requirements.
Sustainability – Member of the Green Hospitality Programme, and Sustainable Travel Ireland
Something unique – If you take bikes to explore the scenic cycle routes through Killarney National Parks, you can request a picnic basket at reception.
