Loch Lein Country House

Loch Lein Country House is scenically situated on the northern shore of Loch Lein, the largest of the Killarney Lakes, with beautiful views over the MacGillicuddy Reeks mountain range from most of its rooms. The grey-roofed white country home is surrounded by lovely, grassy grounds with a handful of shaded tables and garden furniture to relax in while taking in the view of fields, lake, and mountain peaks.

Inside, the atmosphere is quiet and homey; this is a rural retreat with a country home feel. Interiors are pleasant and traditionally decorated, if a bit dated, with an array of patterned armchairs, curtains, and carpets. The main entrance leads into a lobby presided over by a wooden staircase ascending to the rooms. The adjoining lounge is illuminated by large bay windows that look out over the grounds and decorated with teal carpet and crimson and pink patterned sofas, as well as a lovely fireplace. There’s also a pink-hued music room that straddles a fine line between elegance and fustiness with a medley of patterns on the wallpaper, carpet, and chaise lounge. A piano occupies one corner opposite a stocked bookshelf and there are several board games on hand.

The friendly and relaxed atmosphere is due in large part to the hotel’s owners and hosts, who are always on hand to greet, help, and dole out recommendations. The hotel attracts tourists looking for a dose of countryside quiet and guests wishing to do a bit of hiking or golfing at the nearby courses.

The Loch Lein Country House Hotel is located on the northern shores of Loch Lein, the largest of the Killarney Lakes, in the village of Fossa. The tranquil setting is right off of the Ring of Kerry road (N72) and surrounded by farmland and the lake, with views of the MacGillicuddy Reeks mountain range. There is a bus stop a three-minute walk away on the Ring of Kerry. The town of Killarney is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. There are several golf courses in the area, all a short drive from the hotel, including the Killarney Golf and Fishing Club, the Lackabane Course, the Castlerosse Golf Course, and the Ross Golf Club.

Rooms at the Loch Lein Country House Hotel are spacious, pleasant, and homey, with lots of natural light courtesy of large windows. Traditional decor can feel a bit dated, such as the floral curtains, patterned armchairs, and old tube TVs, but the spaces are tasteful and clean, with comfortable beds, work desks, and ample closet space. Crimson patterned bedspreads match the armchairs in many rooms, while some rooms have plaid accents. Some rooms have fireplaces and many have beautiful views of the lake, grounds, and mountain range. The rooms have limited amenities and lack minibars, mini-fridges, and coffee- or tea-making facilities.

Large bathrooms are clad in beige tiles and have separate walk-in showers and tubs. Bathrobes, slippers, and toiletries are provided.

Tasty meals with an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients are served in a panoramic dining room with large windows overlooking the green grounds, countryside, and lake. Everything is homemade, from the bread to after-dinner chocolates. A full Irish breakfast is included in the room rate. The adjoining bar is a small, cozy space with a nice selection of whiskies and local craft beers.

The lounge has lovely views over the grounds and lake and plenty of seating around a cozy fireplace. The Music Room has a piano, bookshelf stocked with guides and other reads, and board games. Freebies include Wi-Fi, parking, bottled water, and daily newspapers.