Great Southern Killarney

The Malton is a grand, landmark hotel dating back to the mid-19th century and sporting a stately, ivy-clad facade that reflects the period elegance within. The property was first opened as The Railway Hotel in 1854, later transitioning to The Great Southern Hotel around the turn of the century. It finally became the Malton in 2006. Stepping inside, its instantly apparent that the hotel has retained more than a little of its Victorian splendor -- neo-classical columns support lofty ceilings trimmed with ornate cornices, while heavy velvet drapery, antique objets d'art and furnishings, and numerous oil paintings lend the lobby a genuinely refined and classical air. A contemporary reception desk also blends seamlessly with the period interiors below a lovely stained glass window skylight. A more contemporary, and less-attractive, modern add-on is connected to the main historic property by a glass walkway and surrounded by the hotel's six acres of pretty landscaped gardens. The hotel has long been popular with visiting celebrities and VIPs including many Irish presidents and even Charlie Chaplin. 

The hotel is tucked away in a quieter corner of Killarney, though it's a short walk from the town center's good selection of bars, restaurants, galleries, and shops. With Killarney bus and rail stations on the same block, it makes a particularly convenient base for exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside including the lush wooded mountains, lakes, and valleys of Killarney National Park, a 35-minute trip away. The Ring of Kerry carriageway and tourist route is a 10-minute drive away, which means easy access by car around some of Kerry's most picturesque landscape.  

The hotel's 172 rooms are split between its two buildings. Those in the main house have high Victorian ceilings and decor tends toward more traditional elegance, while those in the newer Garden Wing lean toward a more contemporary look and feel. In-room amenities in both include free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee facilities, and 32-inch flat-screen TVs. Free bottled water is also provided. Deluxe Rooms and higher room categories have mini-fridges (stocked on request), while Suites have bonus robes, slippers, and stereo systems. Bathrooms are clean and well-maintained stocked with high-end White Company toiletries; some have marble-top counters and clawfoot bathtubs. While most rooms are nicely presented, a few are starting to look a little tired and in need of refresh, while others are on the small side. Noise can also be an issue in some rooms when the hotel is hosting events such as weddings. 

The Malton's Garden Room Restaurant offers one of the most elegant dining rooms in town where guests can enjoy an excellent buffet breakfast (not included in the rate) as well as superb fine dining for dinner. The Grand Foyer is no less attractive and serves Afternoon Tea, while the Punchbowl Bar's log fires, velvet sofas, and impressive selection (over 150) of whiskeys make a particularly cozy setting. The hotel also features a decent-sized swimming pool with poolside whirlpool tub and loungers that overlooks the gardens. The Innisfallen Leisure Centre also offers sauna, steam room, a range of massage treatments, and even two outdoor tennis courts. There's also plenty of space to unwind with a book or newspaper in either the hotel's reading room or library. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.