Ard na Sidhe Review

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Ard na Sidhe

Write a review | Avg. member rating: 4.0/5

Fodor's Review:

"Sidhe" (pronounced shee) means "Hill of the Fairies," and this secluded, gabled Edwardian mansion certainly looks like it belongs in a fairy tale. Its courtly, ivy-covered stone walls are punctuated by casement windows set in gorgeous stone mullions, while the neatly manicured lakeside gardens contrast with the surrounding wilderness. The storybook mansion, built by Lady Gordon in 1913, has attractive, large rooms furnished with coordinated carpets and spreads, and floral drapes on bay windows; rooms in the main building are the nicest. Antiques and fireplaces dot the traditionally furnished lobby and lounges, but most of the furnishings are reproduction quality. Still, the setting and the house itself are incomparable, and guests have the use of the pools and gyms at two sister hotels in Killarney. Boating and fishing facilities are also offered. Pros: quiet lakeside location; picture-book pretty. Cons: food not a strong point; no other hostelries in walking distance.

  • Hotel Details: 18 rooms
  • In-room: no TV.
  • In-hotel: restaurant, bar, Internet terminal.
  • Rate includes: Full breakfast
  • Credit Cards: AE, DC, MC, V
  • Closed: Closed mid-Oct.-Apr.
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Member Reviews and Ratings

Reviewed by lizlubee from Boston, MA on 5/21/07
During our recent four night stay at Ard na Sidhe we were treated to a nice room with spectacular views over the well-landscaped grounds and lake. Unfortunately we were also treated to uninspired and unappetizing food. Dinner consisted of bland, over-cooked vegetables with cream sauce as a vegetarian option while breakfast included fermented orange juice, over-done eggs, and the same rolls served at dinner. Generally, service was disorganized and perfunctory (no one to assist with luggage, no phone book on-site, no list of local attractions for guests). Sadly, we missed our single opportunity to visit Skellig Michael because of the staff's poor planning and inattention to detail. So, while the building and grounds are outstanding, the service and food leaves much to be desired. Overall, Ard na Sidhe is not deserving of four star and "Fodor's choice" status.

Member Rating: 3.0
Ratings details: Room: 4.0 Atmosphere: 4.0 Service: 1.0 Value: 2.0

Reviewed by bunny7849 from Chicago on 1/9/07
As we pulled up the drive we felt that we were looking at a Thomas Kinkade painting. THe feeling grew as we open the door to our garden room and looked out on the beautiful gardens. It is a very relaxing, peaceful and beautiful place to stay. The staff went out of their way to makes us comfortable. I would go back in a heartbeat and stay longer!!

Member Rating: 5.0
Ratings details: Room: 5.0 Atmosphere: 5.0 Service: 5.0 Value: 5.0
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