This appealing privately-owned hotel just outside Tralee presents a neat face to arriving guests and also has extensive landscaped gardens at the back; although it's on the main Tralee-Killarney road, a slip road makes it easy to access and eases traffic noise.
Now in the third generation of McGillicuddy family ownership, it is held in affection locally and many features of the original 18th-century Ballygarry House have been retained, along with the family’s established traditions of hospitality.
But there is also change in the air and the current proprietor, Padraig McGillicuddy, is on a mission for the 100-acre estate to become an international sustainable tourism destination.
Wetlands, re-wilding former farmland, native tree and hedgerow planting, wild flower meadows and apiaries are all part of his ambitious plans for this quietly luxurious hotel - and many are already well underway.
All that, and its exceptionally friendly, helpful staff and moderate prices for the high standard of accommodation, food and service offered, make it one of Kerry/s most desirable destinations.
All round, this is a very appealing hotel - and it is also moderately priced for the high standard offered.
