The Ardilaun Hotel

Set on five acres of lovely gardens dotted with flowers, manicured grass lawns, and winding paths, the Ardilaun is an elegant property drawing a diverse array of guests, from families and couples to business travelers and tour groups. Wedding parties are common here as well, especially in the summer when the gardens are in full bloom. Interiors hew toward the classic, and are cozy and warm, with lots of wood accents, classic patterned carpeting, several seating areas, and small golden chandeliers. Welcoming touches include afternoon tea that's served in the lobby where there are plush couches, a small fireplace, and large windows overlooking the grounds. The rest of the hotel has a similar feel, with antique elements that include ornate mantelpieces and high ceilings with crown molding. Overall, this is a pleasant and laid-back choice that's within easy striking distance of downtown Galway and the beach. 

The hotel is located in the leafy suburb of Taylors Hill, a quiet area located just north of Salthill Beach. There isn’t much in the immediate vicinity, but guests can find a few small cafes and restaurants within a 15-minute walk. In fact, the part of Galway west of the river is home to some of the city's trendiest spots, and plenty of gastro-pubs and quaint eateries line the streets. The lively Salthill Promenade, packed with bars and cafes, can be reached on foot in about 20 minutes, or by car in five minutes, and the Galway Golf Club is a quick, five- to 10-minute drive away. Most central Galway attractions, such as Eyre Square and Galway Cathedral, are within a 10-minute drive of the hotel, or 25 minutes by bus for those who’d rather use public transportation. There's a bus stop a five-minutes walk from the hotel. Galway Rail Station is a 30-minute bus ride or 10-minute drive from the hotel. The train ride to Dublin takes about three hours, while the Shannon Airport -- the closest major airport -- is a 75-minute drive from the hotel. 

There's a pretty wide disparity in room quality here. Most Deluxe Rooms are modern and sharp, with large leather headboards, plush cream-colored carpets, pale-yellow wallpaper with delicate prints, and lounge chairs by the window in each. The ambience is classic, with wooden furniture, plush carpets, and a subdued, earth-tone palette with pops of crimson. However, other rooms, including many Standard Rooms and some Superior Rooms, are past their prime -- we spotted tube TVs in a few units as well as heavy drapes, mostly bare walls, and bland wood veneer furniture.  All rooms include flat-screen (or tube) TVs, safes, ironing facilities, and electric kettles for tea and coffee. Bathrooms are average, with beige tiles and either glass-enclosed walk-in showers or shower/tub combos; some have separate showers and tubs and heated towel racks. They include toiletries and hairdryers. First-floor rooms overlooking the service area may pick up noise from delivery trucks in the morning. 

The fitness and wellness center is the hotel’s highlight. Wooden floors and big windows make the exercise room appealing and light, while a wide array of machines -- including cardio and strength-training equipment -- and a movement studio with group classes allow for a full workout. The fitness center includes a sauna and a steam room, and body treatments and salon services can be booked at the spa. The Ardilaun also has a heated, 18-meter indoor pool complete with large windows and a whirlpool. Swimming classes are available for a fee. The hotel has two restaurants -- including Camilaun, a fine dining restaurant with seasonal outdoor dining, and a more casual bistro -- both serving good food made with fresh produce and herbs grown in the hotel’s on-site garden. Breakfast is offered, but is not included in room rates. Afternoon tea is served in a quiet area in the lobby, and Blazers Bar offers a wide array of beers. The Ardilaun also has extensive meeting and events space, a seasonal kids’ club, and a business center with printing and copying services. Free parking and free Wi-Fi are also available.