Overview
Muckross Park Hotel & Spa is a 5-star multi-award-winning hotel located in the heart of Killarney National Park, just a five-minute drive from Killarney town. It opened its doors as The Herbert Arms in 1795 and was part of the original Muckross Estate, making it one of the oldest hotels in Killarney.
Throughout its history, it has hosted many prominent guests including Queen Victoria, George Bernard Shaw, and Daniel O'Connell. The hotel is nestled within 25,000 acres of the national park, sitting at the edge of an ancient forest beside the Lakes of Killarney, and has become one of the most distinctive luxury properties in southwest Ireland.
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What You'll See
The hotel has 70 luxurious rooms and suites across two floors, each with a deluxe king-size bed, en-suite bathroom, Nespresso coffee machine, climate control, large-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi.
The award-winning Spa at Muckross was named World Spa Destination of the Year in both 2011 and 2014. It is inspired by Grecian decor that reflects a relaxed timelessness of contemporary monastic elegance, and includes a Vitality Pool, thermal area, sauna, steam room, and multiple treatment rooms.
Dining centers on the two AA-Rosette Yew Tree Restaurant set within the original Victorian lounge, Monk's Lounge for afternoon tea and light bites, and Colgan's Pub - a characterful space with exposed stone, timber beams, and a crackling fire.
Visitor Essentials
Complimentary access to the Vitality Pool and Thermal Area is included for resident guests aged 16 and over, with individual treatments available at additional charge. Please note that guests under 18 are not allowed in the spa.
The hotel also welcomes non-residents for dining and spa facilities with advance reservations. Free parking is included, and complimentary bicycles are available for guests to borrow to explore the park.
Tips
One of the great advantages of staying here is that Muckross Abbey, Muckross House and gardens, and Torc Waterfall are all walkable from the hotel grounds, meaning you can have a full day exploring the national park without getting in the car.
Book spa treatments and Yew Tree Restaurant well in advance - both are in high demand and fill quickly in peak season. The hotel hosts Major Colgan's Irish Show in its pub on select evenings - a traditional Irish music and dance performance by The Sinseoiri Dancers and musician Onora - worth checking the schedule if visiting during summer.
The hotel is about 4 km from Killarney town centre, close enough to drive or cab in for an evening out but far enough removed to feel like you are staying inside the park itself, which is the essential reason to choose it over the town center properties.
