The Black Sheep Hostel

The Black Sheep felt more like home than any of the 70-plus hostels I've stayed in over the years. I was there for five nights in October of 25’ and loved it. The building has loads of character, and the staff were genuinely friendly and helpful. Renting a bike was easy and worked perfectly for a brilliant day in the national park next door. It's an affordable spot, five minutes from the park and five from the pubs in town. I'd love to return someday. 🇮🇪

I got attached to the dogs, especially Tass, and would love to come back. Tass (not sure how to write it) and Bob live at the hotel, and the whole place felt so safe and homey that I even left my things out on the bed without locking them away. Other travellers were really nice, and it was easy to start conversations. The staff were warm, friendly hosts with great stories, and the facilities were amazing. The decor has so much history and character, with paintings, postcards, a fireplace, a guitar, piano and ukuleles. It felt like staying in a traditional pub. After a long day, coming back felt like coming home. This is probably the best hotel I've stayed in, even compared with expensive places that weren't as good. (Tass, I love you.)

The kitchen has what you need to cook and store food, including an oven, double burner stove, cabinets, utensils and two fridges. Rooms are cosy, clean and roomy, with thick comfortable mattresses, curtains and lockers, though you'll need to bring your own lock. Four sweet pet dogs wander around the lower floors. The hostel is a great stay, and I'd absolutely return. The staff are especially welcoming, kind and helpful, with recommendations for Killarney and tips on making the most of your visit. 10/10, would recommend.

The people here are cool, and there's good coffee for sale out front if instant isn't your thing. The Black Sheep Hostel has an antique sort of charm. Watch your head on the low doors, maybe 1.80 metres, and you can hear footsteps from above because the wooden floors creak.