Doolin in Ireland is one of the last remaining areas in the country to have retained some of the old charm feel of a traditional Irish village with its colorful village cottages and narrow country lanes.
Most visitors to the region are understandably drawn to the likes of the Ring of Kerry (a scenic coastal drive), kissing the stone at the Blarney Castle and perhaps even Funghi the dolphin in Dingle Bay.
Great as these locations are, it would be a real shame to miss a visit to Doolin town in County Clare as it will be the destination which you will wish to return to, the town where you can get to see traditional Irish music played nightly, the town with a selection of accommodation choices with awe inspiring views of the emerald green Irish countryside and sea views of the Aran Islands sitting out in the Atlantic.
Doolin hotels and guesthouses have in recent decades come to the fore and really started to challenge the bigger towns with their high quality lodgings. The first hotel of note would have to be the Aran View House Hotel just outside the village which boasts some of the best views out to the Aran Islands and of the surrounding countryside.
Each of the 19 rooms in this hotel are big and spacious with great views. Those wishing for a variety of dining options will be tempted by this hotels restaurant with both standard and a-la-carte menus. Those seeking wholesome food in an informal setting can also partake of the pub menu on offer too.
If you are seeking something more tranquil and just that little bit extra special then a stay at the Ballinalacken Castle Country House comes highly recommended for its hill top setting with views of Galway Bay and its lush grounds.
The hotel sits alongside the castle (from which the hotel took its name) on a cliff top a few kilometers north of Doolin village. The 15th century castle forms a backdrop to the hotel with has been sympathetically designed inside and out with tasteful elegant decor throughout. Rooms are bright and spacious.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff can advise on the best walks and sights to see in the surrounding grounds and the adjoining Burren Way walk. Alternatively, if you just wish to enjoy reading a good book, then there are plenty of cozy communal areas in the hotel are most welcoming.
One final accommodation recommendation would be the Roadford House guest-house. Some might term this 6 room guesthouse as being almost a boutique hotel and it certainly has the quirky modern feel that some would enjoy. The adjoining restaurant serves award winning food and is noted in the area for its spectacular range of dishes.
For more information about restaurants, entertainment and hotels in Doolin visit our website at http://doolinhotelsguide.com/doolin-ireland-information
Tags: aran islands, destination, Destinations, doolin, europe, holidays, hotels, ireland, leisure, music, recreation, restaurants, travel, vacations