Penny McCormick checks in and checks out the vibe, the rooms and the dining in one of Ireland’s oldest hotels, the Park Hotel Kenmare, Co Kerry …
THE VIBE: A blissful mix of arthouse luxury and fabulous food.
THE BACKSTORY: One of Ireland’s oldest hotels, dating from 1897, belonged to hoteliers Francis and John Brennan from the 1980s until 2023. During their tenure, its status as a five-star, family-owned grande dame where cocooning rooms, comfort and charismatic staff prevailed, was cemented. The Brennans oversaw a swish makeover by London based Irish interior designer Bryan O’Sullivan. His signature Deco-esque style is in evidence with scallop-edged sofas, banquette seating and pretty pastel velvets.
Bryan Meehan
WHO: In 2023, the Brennans sold The Park to entrepreneur Bryan Meehan and his wife Tara. The installation of diverse, contemporary pieces by Irish and international artists including Louis le Brocquy, Andy Warhol, Theaster Gates and Dorothy Cross is the first phase of Meehan’s renovation plan, with daily art tours at 5pm. His mission is to make The Park one of the most sustainable hotels in Ireland.
A bedroom overlooking Kenmare Bay
ROOMS: There are 46 peaceful rooms, in three categories (superior, deluxe, suites). Mine overlooked Kenmare Bay and had a mix of antique furniture, interesting reading material, an incredibly comfortable bed and luxurious bathroom with Bamford amenities. The coffee chests (which I liked) have been replaced with Blue Bottle Coffee – Meehan was co-owner of the brand, so complimentary coffees, lattes or matchas are served during the day. WiFi can be patchy, but who comes to The Park to work? On my visit, the hotel was buzzing with guests on hiking and biking holidays.
DINING: Landline, where breakfast and dinner is served, is named after Sean Scully’s abstract work – one of seven paintings in the restaurant. Any foodie worth their salt will love chef James O’Sullivan’s sublime menu.
DO: Take an early morning walk through the gates at the bottom of the garden to Reenagross, a woodland waterfront walk that sets you up for a leisurely breakfast.
DON’T: Miss Sámas Spa, where you’ll immediately feel your shoulders drop. Its open-air infinity pool gives forest bathing among oak trees a literal meaning.
The living room
VERDICT: Pared back, poised and personable, Park Kenmare is primed for her exciting third act. This is la dolce vita Irish-style. Overnight stays from €455 per room, include breakfast and a daily wellbeing programme including yoga and hikes. www.parkkenmare.com
See more: Seeking Hotels That Offer The Good Life