The modern three-story building may lack old-world charm, but the waterfront location more than compensates. Built around three sides of a former dockyard on the very edge of Kinsale's magnificent harbor, the Trident features large rooms that all showcase fabulous sea views. The hotel is adjacent to a working pier where rusty coasters tie up overnight, adding to the authentic harbor atmosphere and providing a conversation topic as you breakfast in the first-floor restaurant within feet of a ship's stern. The Wharf Tavern ($) and its bar-food menu are popular with locals who range from stevedores to owners of the million-dollar yachts moored at the neighboring marina. Pros: great sea views; plenty of parking. Cons: bland decor; risk of boisterous wedding receptions at weekends.
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