Set on a grassy embankment overlooking Kenmare Bay, The Park has perched atop this wooded hill since 1897.
With mature gardens leading down to the water’s edge the Victorian landmark was purpose built as a hotel, and though extended several times, still sits comfortably into its surroundings. Out the gates lies pretty-as-a-picture Kenmare, delightfully near yet in no way encroaching on the tranquillity.
10/10
Style and design
Park Hotel, Kenmare
A harmonious blend of Victorian heritage and contemporary cool casts a relaxing and welcoming spell over the atmosphere and interiors. When new owners, the Meehans, introduced their spectacular contemporary art collection to the hotel they breathed new energy into this traditional space. The fresh vibe complements the beautiful refurb carried out by star designer Bryan O’Sullivan under previous owners, the Brennan brothers. An elegant palette of sage green, dusty pink, and powder blue feels luxurious and soothing with comfort to the fore.
10/10
Service
A hallmark of the Park’s appeal, the service here is wonderful. Staff are charming, engaged, friendly and enthusiastic. Service is perfectly pitched understanding when guests are looking to engage and smart enough to leave people relaxing in peace when required. The team, under the charming Kasia Riebandt, make great hospitality look easy.
10/10
Guest rooms
Bedrooms have been undergoing refurbs in stages with the suites the latest to enjoy a revamp. Expect simple colour palettes balanced by larger, older pieces of furniture, luxurious marble bathrooms and good lighting. Waterside rooms enjoy glorious light from the bay. The bedroom sofas aren’t as fun as the scalloped ones in the public areas but there is good seating areas and deep carpets. Large beds are exceptionally comfy with crisp cotton sheets.
9.5/10
On the menu
Landline Restaurant
Dining in the Landline is such a pleasure. It’s a beautiful room designed with wonderful natural light, curving banquettes and an incredible Sean Scully art collection and feels really special, whether for breakfast or dinner. Dinner is a relaxing affair and while the food is good, it didn’t deliver quite as much joy or panache as breakfast. Wonderful baking, freshly-squeezed juices, yoghurt, poached prunes infused with Earl Gray, homemade raspberry jam, Gloun Cross milk, and perfect eggs Florentine make for a dream start to the day.
9/10
In-room perks
With strong ties to Blue Bottle Coffee in the US, hotel owner Bryan Meehan has brought the premium brand to Ireland. Each room has a pretty turquoise mug as part of its refreshment set up alongside a kettle, coffee sachets, a selection of teas, including Barry’s, and biscuits.
8/10
Activities and amenities
Samás spa's lap pool
A guided walk with the gardener, a hotel art tour, morning yoga, fitness class, private cinema, and meditation are some of the daily activities on offer. We love that complimentary tea and cake are served in the drawing room every afternoon. And the pianist’s tunes that fill the chichi cocktail bar which is such an elegant little space for evening drinks.
The Samás spa is a real draw and will be undergoing a full revamp in 2025. Its lap pool and sauna feel exclusive with guests frequently having the place to themselves.
The pièce de résistance is the outdoor hot tub tucked into the trees and overlooking Kenmare Bay. It feels like a little piece of heaven on a sunny day.
10/10
The bill
Three nights B&B for the price of two from €325 per room.
Our rating: 9.5/10
Room to improve? A second vegetarian option is needed in a restaurant of this calibre.
Accessibility? Steps at front of hotel mean wheelchair users have to use a secondary entrance. Public areas are accessible with lifts to bedrooms.
Family-friendly? Yes, with a Lego play room and special entertainment over school holidays.
