Kingdom hotels rule in poll of world hideaways

KERRY tourism got a welcome boost when the Kingdom emerged as a major global hotspot for hidden getaway holidays.

Two hotels in the county were named among the Top 10 Hidden Gems in the World by a leading international travel information website, while several hidden treasures were also praised for their service and value.

The annual Travellers’ Choice awards organised by TripAdvisor listed Loch Lein Country House and Killeen House near Killarney as two of the best-kept secrets in Irish tourism.

Loch Lein Country House — a four-star hotel located on the edge of Killarney’s Lower Lake in Fossa — was ranked No 8 in the Top 10 Hidden Gems in the World.

The hotel, which is owned by Paul and Annette Corridan, was described by one reviewer as “beautifully furnished with huge spacious and luxurious rooms, complimented by the fantastic communal areas”.

It was also voted into 18th place in the Top 100 Bargains in the World.

Killeen House, which is situated in Aghadoe, came just one place behind Loch Lein in overall rankings at No 9 Top Hidden Gem in the World.

Built in 1838, the 23-bedroom hotel has recently been renovated by owners, Michael and Geraldine Rosney. One Australian tourist called Killeen House “an oasis in a sea of travel”, while a US visitor remarked: “I want to move into Killeen House.”

Meanwhile, Castlewood House — a 12-bedroom guesthouse in Dingle, Co Kerry, was also listed as No 42 in the Top 100 Bargains in the World.

The Four Seasons Hotel in Ballsbridge, Dublin, was named as the best hotel in the capital and ranked as one of the best city hotels in the world.

TripAdvisor spokesman Luke Fredberg predicted that many Irish people would take their holidays within the Republic this year because of the vast array of hotels offering bargain deals.

A hotel in Tuscany, Italy — the Hotel Vecchio Asilo in San Gimignano — was named as the best bargain place to stay in the world.

The Best Luxury Hotel is the Aria Hotel in Prague, while the best Hidden Gem is the Anastasis Apartments on the Greek isle of Santorini.