I’ve been fortunate enough to stay in each of the 5 star hotels in Killarney over the last number of years, and there’s some tough competition.
If I’m honest with you, it’s nearly impossible to crown one as ‘best’, as the standard of luxury accommodation in Killarney is so high.
So, in this guide, I’m going to show you the ones that I enjoyed staying in the most, and that I’m confident you’ll enjoy.
Our favourite 5 star hotels in Killarney
The map above shows where each of the 5 star hotels in Killarney are located. As you can see, all but one (the Park) is located outside of Killarney Town.
Note: if you book a hotel through one of the links below we’ll make a tiny commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we really do appreciate it.
1. The Europe Hotel & Resort
First up is the Europe – one of the stand-out 5 star hotels in Kerry. It’s situated right next to the lake, boasting stunning views of the mountains, gardens and the national park.
Facility-wise, the Europe boasts both fine and casual dining, several bars and lounges, an highly rated spa and plenty of on-site activities.
The rooms are extravagant and many offer views of the scenery outside. For a treat, book into the Panorama restaurant (one of the most unique restaurants in Killarney!) before sunset for breath-taking views while you eat.
Key info about the Europe:
- Location: Fossa
- Drive-time from town: 9 minutes
- Learn more: See photos + reviews here
2. Muckross Park Hotel & Spa
Journey to Muckross Park to experience 18th-century luxury combined with 21st-century opulence. The hotel is located on 25,000 acres inside the magnificent Killarney National Park.
The spacious rooms are elegantly decorated affording you world-class comfort while the award-winning spa, inspired by gothic architecture, comes with a vitality pool, tropical rain shower and a large list of spa treatments.
There are numerous dining options within the hotel and you’re a handy 7-minute drive from the town if you fancy sampling locale fare. This is one of the most popular luxury hotels in Killarney for good reason.
Key info about Muckross Park
- Location: Muckross
- Drive time to the town: 7 minutes
- Learn more: See photos + reviews here
3. The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens
You’ll find the Dunloe in an enviable location overlooking the famous Gap of Dunloe in Beaufort, a 15-minute drive from the town.
Tucked away on a finely-manicured 64-acre estate, guests staying at the Dunloe can expect luxurious furnishings, comfy rooms (many of which have views) and an excellent leisure centre.
In the evening, head to the Grill Restaurant and enjoy the views while you eat or take a taxi into town and kick-back in one of the many pubs in Killarney.
Key info about the Dunloe:
- Location: Beaufort
- Drive-time from town: 15 minutes
- Learn more: See photos + reviews here
4. Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa
Arguably one of the best-known 5 star hotels in Ireland, Aghadoe Heights is situated in a mesmerising location, right by the Lakes of Killarney.
Guests can relax in the extensive spa area which boasts and indoor and outdoor area that looks out over the lower lake and the Macgillycuddys.
The bedrooms are kitted out with extravagant furnishings with every want and need catered for, with some having windows facing the lake.
If you’re looking for luxury hotels in Killarney with outstanding views and a top-notch leisure facility, look no further.
Key info about Aghadoe Heights:
- Location: Lakes of Killarney
- Drive-time from town: 10 minutes
- Learn more: See photos + reviews here
5. The Killarney Park
The last of the 5 star hotels in Killarney is the often-overlooked Killarney Park. The biggest thing this place has going for it is location – it’s in the town and a stone’s throw from the park.
Location aside, this property has a lot going for it, including a spa with 8 treatment suites, a large leisure suite with outdoor hot tub, bubble pool and sauna/steam rooms.
The guest rooms scream ‘old-world Irish elegance’ and the hotel has several dining options, including the Terrace for those mild summer evenings.
If you’re looking for luxury hotels in Killarney that are at the heart of the town and that offer world-class service, the Park is worth considering!
Key info about the Killarney Park:
- Location: Killarney Town
- Walk time from the park: 5 minutes
- Learn more: See photos + reviews here
Staying in Killarney and looking for things to do?
Now that we have our favourite luxury hotels in Killarney out of the way, it’s time to look at things to see and do.
Each of the 5 star hotels in Killarney above are close to:
- The Ring of Kerry: It can be kicked-off from their doorsteps
- Torc Waterfall: An impressive falls near the town
- Ladies View: One of Kerry’s finest viewpoints
- Muckross Abbey: Beautiful ruins of an ancient friary
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.