Discover the magic at Parknasilla Resort and Spa

By Triona Doherty

Set in 500 acres of parkland overlooking the Atlantic ocean, Parknasilla Resort and Spa is a little piece of heaven in one of the most beautiful parts of the country.

Parknasilla is just a couple of miles from the pretty village of Sneem on the Ring of Kerry, and is the ideal location for a relaxing break away.

We arrived at Parknasilla on a rainy November afternoon. The hotel’s cosy atmosphere was immediately evident with a welcoming open fire in the reception area and a warm, friendly, greeting from staff. We warmed ourselves with a delicious bowl of soup in the Doolittle Bar, which is traditionally decorated in dark wood, reds, and greens with idyllic views over Kenmare Bay.

Parknasilla has a range of standard and executive rooms and luxury suites to choose from, and if you are lucky enough to be staying in a room or suite overlooking the bay, as we were, the views are breathtaking. Guests can also unwind in the hotel’s stately library and games room. 

On-site activities at Parknasilla include a 12-hole golf course, archery, fishing, and tennis, while you can also order a picnic from the hotel’s reception before you head off to explore the Ring of Kerry or any of the many attractions this stunning region has to offer.

There are also seven mapped walks onsite; we did the Islands Walk, taking us across wooden bridges to the wooded islands with their many viewing points over the bay.

While at Parknasilla, make the most of your time away and treat yourself to an Elemis facial, massage, or body therapy in the tranquil spa. Guests also have full use of all facilities including thermal spa, sauna, salt inhalation steam room, aromatherapy steam room, heated loungers, pool, and outdoor hot tubs. 

The hotel’s Pygmalion Restaurant allows guests to dine in Victorian elegance and comfort, with large windows overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. The superb dinner menu during our stay was rich with fresh local produce, and included such delicious dishes as braised lamb rump with roasted parsnips and boulangerie potatoes; and pan fried fillet of sea bass with cherry tomatoes, fine ratatouille, and spinach.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year at Parknasilla

Parknasilla Resort and Spa is looking forward to hosting a festive season which will include cocktails and carols by the fire, indulgent breakfasts, lazy lunches, and delicious dinners. The resort’s Christmas package is a three-night stay from December 24 to 27 including a lavish breakfast each morning, a glamorous dinner with cocktails and mulled wine on Christmas Eve, the full traditional Christmas Day lunch, and relaxed buffet dinner in the evening. The price for a gorgeous Parknasilla Christmas is €699 per person sharing and €255 for children.

Or why not ring in the New Year in style at Parknasilla? Whether it is a romantic new year à deux or you are bringing the entire family to ring in 2011, the gorgeous surroundings of one of Ireland’s most idyllic locations make Parknasilla Resort the ideal place to celebrate.

Contact Parknasilla Resort, Co Kerry at (064) 6675600 or visit www.parknasillahotel.ie