There’s a great buzz when you walk into the lobby of this lakeside stalwart, set on the edge of a national park in the tourist hub of Killarney. Families young and old make the most of the double-height, light-filled space, hatching plans for the day over morning coffee as a backdrop of jagged mountains changes colors with the clouds. The Europe is a plush base for a weekend break exploring this scenic corner of the country. But there’s also lots to do on site: complimentary rides around the grounds on caramel-colored Haflinger ponies, a decent playground and gardens to let loose in, as well as chess boards in the cozy library with its chocolate-brown Chesterfields. But the main attraction is the huge infinity pool that feels like an extension of the lake. Thoughtful touches enhance a family stay such as cinema nights for kids while parents tuck into Dingle gin and tonic salmon and local lamb at the Panorama restaurant, while the pizzas in poolside Riva are a hit with everyone.
Address: The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney, County Kerry
Price: Family rooms from about $675
Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa, County Wexford
For many people in Ireland, the name “Kelly’s” conjures up memories of crazy golf in the sunshine, fingers like prunes from hours spent in the pool, trays of tiny cakes for afternoon tea and flapping to the Birdie Song at the kids’ club. This hotel set the standard for family breaks decades ago and it’s still helping its large fanbase of repeat customers to create new memories. But Bill Kelly, the fifth generation of the family to run it, is not resting on his laurels: new additions include the sleek, glass-fronted Sea Rooms restaurant for seven-course tasting menus with dishes such as barbecued lobster with clementine and dill, and the creation of a field-to-fork supply chain from the hotel’s kitchen garden. Activities for all ages are a given; the weekly schedule for adults includes everything from pickleball to ballroom dancing, while kids get sucked into clay sculpting and shell hunts on the beach. This is an old-school classic that knows how to have fun.
Address: Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa, Rosslare, County Wexford
Price: From about $195 per person per night half board, with child reductions varying by age
Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, County Cork
Nautical nods are everywhere in this family-run retreat on the edge of the rolling Atlantic. The big draw for a multi-gen break is Blue Flag Inchydoney beach, where budding young surfers can gain serious skills at Ireland’s longest running surf school. Other water-based activities nearby include boat tours for whale watching and dolphin spotting, and for rainy days there’s a heated indoor pool that’s filled daily with saltwater from the ocean. For extra space to store all the beach gear, book one of the self-catering apartments with terraces or balconies overlooking the sea. Back in the hotel, there’s a children’s lounge with board games, books, and giant Connect 4, and a pool room for teenagers. The impressive kids’ menu at Dunes Bistro elevates the standard offering, with baby bowls for little ones, plus mildly spiced curries and banana boats. Or there’s always ice-cream-topped waffles from the Silver Surfer, the shiny Airstream food truck pitched up on the path to the beach.
Address: Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, Clonakilty, County Cork
Price: Family rooms from about $318 per night