Ireland (Lonely Planet, 9th Edition) - Fionn Davenport [241]
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Killarney Golf & Fishing Club ( 064-663 1034; www.killarney-golf.com; Mahony’s Point; green fees per person from €40), 3.4km west of town on the N72, has three courses: two alongside Lough Leane, one with artificial lakes, and all with mountain views.
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SLEEPING
Budget accommodation tends to be right in the centre; B&Bs are often just outside on Rock, Lewis and Muckross Rds. The latter also has scores of generic hotels aimed at group tours. Book ahead everywhere in summer.
Budget
Some hostels arrange pick-ups from the bus and train stations. Most offer discounted bike hire, horse riding and tours of the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula and local attractions.
Killarney Flesk Caravan & Camping Park ( 064-663 1704; www.killarneyfleskcamping.com; Muckross Rd; campsites from €10; Easter-Sep) About 1.3km south of town on the N71, the park is surrounded by woods and has great mountain views. Facilities include bike hire, a supermarket, bar and cafe.
Railway Hostel ( 064-663 5299; www.killarneyhostel.com; Fair Hill; dm €13-22, s/d from €38/52; ) This modern hostel near the train station is about as inviting as hostels get, with private bathrooms, bunks nestling in nooks, and maps and cycling itineraries adorning the walls. Prices include a basic breakfast.
Neptune’s Killarney Town Hostel ( 064-663 5255; www.neptuneshostel.com; Bishop’s Lane, New St; dm €14-20, d €40-50; ) Neptune’s mixed dorms can sleep over 150, but the central hostel feels much smaller thanks to the roaring fire in reception, free internet access, and the staff’s unfailing helpfulness. Sheets are supplied, towels aren’t.
Fossa Caravan & Camping Park ( 064-663 1497; www.camping-holidaysireland.com; Fossa; dm €15, campsites from €16; Easter-Sep). The better of two parks on the N72 to Killorglin, found 5.5km west of Killarney, it has a restaurant, and the location is a relaxing spot with views of Macgillycuddy’s Reeks.
Súgán Hostel ( 064-663 3104; www.killarneysuganhostel.com; Lewis Rd; dm/d €16/40) Behind its publike front, 250-year-old Súgán is an amiably eccentric hostel with a turf fire in the cosy common room and low, crazy-cornered ceilings. Rooms have beautiful hardwood floors. Very central.
Killarney International Hostel ( 064-663 1240; www.anoige.ie; Aghadoe House, Fossa; dm €16-23, d from €46; ) The Headley barons’ former residence, built in the 18th century and set in 75 acres of woodland, is regal quarters for a 170-bed hostel. Signposted off the N72, 5km west of central Killarney, this An Óige member offers a full breakfast (€7), laundry room and a free bus to/from town (June to September).
Midrange
B&Bs and guesthouses are as thick on the ground in Killarney as jaunting cars. But from June to August it’s often easiest to let the tourist office find one for you (€4).
Kingfisher Lodge ( 064-663 7131; www.kingfisherlodgekillarney.com; Lewis Rd; r €50-100; ) Lovely back gardens are a highlight at this immaculate B&B on a strip with others close to the centre. The 11 rooms are slightly posh. Walkers will be especially happy here as the owner, Donal Carroll, is a certified guide with years of experience walking and hiking in the region. Much local knowledge is on offer.
Elyod House ( 064-663 6544; www.elyodhouse.ie; Ross Rd; r €60-80; ) This quietly located modern house is on the road to Ross Castle and a few minutes’ walk from town. Rooms are fresh and clean, and the welcome is friendly. The good location balances leafy charms with urban fun.
Ashville House ( 064-663 6405; www.ashvillekillarney.com; Rock Rd; r €60-90; Mar-Dec; ) One of several on this strip close to town, Ashville is spotless. The owners take deep pride in their place and the 18 rooms are comfortable and well equipped. It’s very quiet.
Northwood House ( 064-663 7181; www.northwoodhouse.com;