The Leenane Hotel

The Leenane Hotel Review

Built in the 1790s at the entrance to Leenane village as a coaching inn, and recently upgraded to modern standards (with the bigger rooms in the newest wing), only the main road separates this hotel from Killary Fjord. Nearly all the bedrooms have a magical view, and it is worth waking at first light to savor the fjord in the early-morning mist. You may have to share that view, as this is a popular touring base among both Irish and overseas visitors, with its busy bar and a pleasantly old-fashioned hotel restaurant serving a three-course dinner. Check out the website for good dinner-B&B deals, which can halve the price. Local rack of Connemara lamb, and salmon from the fjord usually feature on the menu. The residents' lounge recalls a previous era, with its assorted shabby-chic chairs and sofas. The biggest treat here, especially after a day in the open, is the seaweed baths, in which you share a tub of heated salt water with a bucket full of freshly picked seaweed (also bookable by nonguests).