Fodor's Expert Review Kilmurvey House
Cill Ronáin [Kilronan], Co. Galway, Ireland
This rambling 200-year-old stone farmhouse, once the family home of the O'Flahertys—one of whom was Oscar Wilde's godfather—whose descendants include the famed writers Liam and Robert, is the first choice of many visitors to the island thanks to its location at the foot of Dún Aengus fort, a three-minute walk from the beach, and about 6½ km (4 miles) from the quay and the airport (accessible by minibus). The old stone house has been cleverly extended to provide extra guest rooms. The neatly kept front garden leads to a large, high-ceiling hall and wide stairs, giving a pleasant sense of space. The walls are hung with portraits of the house's previous owners, the warrior clan of O'Flaherty. Guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, with views of the fort or distant sea views. It's worth paying a small supplement for one of the four larger rooms with king-size beds.
PROS
- lovely warm welcome
- courtesy minibus to and from restaurants
- memorable location adjacent to historic fort
CONS
- too far to walk to village
- public minibus costs €5 each way
- no elevator
HOTEL INFO
HOTEL DETAILS
Rate Includes: Closed mid-Oct.–Mar., Free Breakfast