We did not want to leave
My wife and I just completed a short tour of Ireland, and our time in-and-around Killarney was the highlight, with Friars Glen being the perfect location from which to explore.
Although we arrived later in the evening than planned, from the moment we walked in we felt welcome and at home. They were incredible hosts, and helped us plan every aspect of our stay, from the prettiest sights to the best times to visit and routes to take.
Staying there spoiled us and we almost felt like we had our own private concierge. Every question we asked about activities was followed with crystal clear directions and courtesy maps to show us around. When we mentioned over breakfast that we wanted to try the boat trip from Ross Castle to the Gap of Dunloe, they provided us maps and even called ahead to find out the departure times and then again to reserve seats for us on the boat.
They offer a decent self-service breakfast bar and a number of freshly cooked menu items. The self-service bar included fruit juices, yogurt, fruit salad, muffins and breads. The handful of menu items were very good, and included a traditional Irish Breakfast, banana or plain pancakes, and smoked salmon (which we didn't have enough days to try). My wife was particularly fond of the coffee, which is delivered fresh in your own personal french press.
The location is terrific. They are just inside of Killarney National Park, located on a quiet street off of the main road that circles the Ring of Kerry. You are a close drive to both the beautiful Muckross House and Ross Castle, from which you can embark on trips across the lakes.
The building and grounds are immaculate, with overflowing window boxes, manicured grounds, and wild deer grazing in the yard. Our room was very clean, large enough for two people to move around comfortably, and it had a comfortable bed and sitting chair. The bathroom was tasteful and spotless, with an adequate (if not large) shower. I have only a single caution, and I think it unlikely this will be an issue, but the room did not appear to have air conditioning nor screens on the windows, so if you are fortunate enough to be in Ireland for the rare heatwave, the rooms may be uncomfortably warm. We happened to be there when the daytime temperatures were above 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), and one night we had trouble sleeping due to the heat. My understanding is that this was unusually hot weather for Killarney, and I do not fault Friars Glen for not having A/C in a region in which it is rarely needed.
It is definitely worth a stay, and we look forward to a return. read more