The Dunraven Adare

We had a lovely stay in this charming hotel, which is over 200 years old and sits in an adorable village. Our room was spacious and comfortable, and the beds were a dream. There was a mix-up with the booking about having two beds, but the staff sorted it out without any trouble, and they were incredibly kind throughout. Breakfast had something for everyone, including plenty of vegan options. They brought us hot porridge with fruit and offered several dairy-free milks for my tea. It also worked well as a midway stop between Dublin and Ireland’s west coast during our road trip. We’d definitely stay again.

The guest spaces could be better. The bar is tiny and not very comfortable, and the restaurant felt too small, especially at breakfast. The menu was very limited, and the food was just okay. Breakfast was stodgy, with rind left on the bacon. I know it’s apparently won awards for breakfast, but I’d give it 3/5. Ireland isn’t known for its food, though. The rooms themselves are spacious and well furnished. I didn’t use the pool.

We spent Christmas with family at the Dunraven Arms, and the team made it feel really special. The food was fantastic in both variety and quality, even during such a busy holiday period, and the setting is hard to beat. There are coffee shops, pubs, boutiques, and walkways nearby to fill your time. The staff worked incredibly hard and were attentive to every request. Service was impeccable. Some opulent hotels with very modern interiors lack the comfort and atmosphere the Dunraven offers. I can’t recommend staying here highly enough.

The Dunraven Arms has plenty of character, and the rooms, facilities, and evening menu were all brilliant during my first weekend stay there on a two-night family trip. Breakfast, though, let the place down: key items were missing and what was there was lukewarm at best. The breakfast staff also forgot things we ordered, including tea. Service at the bar was a problem too. Three staff took more than 20 minutes to serve one table with three pints and half a bottle of wine. The hotel itself is very nice, but the staff left a lot to be desired.