Wispy clouds kiss the top of the Macgillacuddy Reeks and float by like ethereal spirits. The colours change from moss green to sage as the sun peaks through the clouds. I’m in Killarney National Park on the edge of Lough Lein and wrapped in a luxurious cocoon at the Hotel Europe. I’m staying one of the newly decorated Premier Lake rooms on level three with touch sensitive features and generous balconies.
In the corner a comfortable couch is in the best spot to highlight the spaciousness of the room covered with soft green hues to reflect the natural landscape outside. When I woke in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, a low level light switched on at my feet as they touched the carpet. This may be high tech living but it’s designed with a classy whisper rather than clinical modernity.
I have an appointment booked in the spa for 3.30 so plenty of time to hit the gym and try out the facilities. The active level is where the spacious pool and Riva restaurant are located on the ground floor. It’s possible from here to walk out to the jetty and enjoy a dip in nature as the gradual incline of the lake makes swimming safe. Even though it’s tempting, I choose instead the balmy outdoor infinity pool while breathing in the spectacular backdrop of Carrauntoohill’s cloud covered peak.
The Espa spa at the Europe has recently introduced a new treatment. The LED Nano-Dermabrasion Active Nutrients Facial removes dry cells and enhances the collagen and softness of our skin. My therapist, Michelle, starts with taster oils for me to choose the scent that soothes. A LED facemask is then placed on my skin that highlights areas for attention while Michelle massages my arms and hands. The treatment takes 90 minutes and I’m just about ready to hit the thermal suite at the spa, but not until I’ve been given a strawberry sorbet and some delicious herbal tea. The highlight at every turn is the stunning view over the lake as the light changes.
That evening as we dine in the Panorama restaurant overlooking the lake the contours of the mountains are reflected in the stunning Wedgwood bespoke designed dinner plates. The attention to detail in this five star hotel is on another level. The menu too is specifically designed around the produce available in the area and with a farm stretching from the Europe to the sister hotel the Dunloe, all meat on the menu is from the hotels own farm. Fish is supplied from the local suppliers and vegetables home grown. I choose oysters to start and seabass all stunningly presented as mini works of art created by executive chef Alex Nahke.
Breakfast is another delight with fresh honeycomb and fruits and pastries to satisfy every taste and the a la carte menu leaves nothing out. Each dining experience is a feast of flavours with exceptional attention to detail from the amuse bouche at the start to the handmade petite fours. With several spaces to enjoy a pre-dinner and after dinner drink the exceptional feeling of space follows me through every corner of the hotel. The library is particularly cosy for after dinner drinks and although the hotel can accommodate guests in 180 rooms the atmosphere throughout the hotel is intimate.
Activities are laid on throughout the day and we are taken to the entrance of Killarney National Park to enjoy a trip in one of the famous jaunting cars. The Tangney family has been taking guests through the park for five generations. They offer an array of tours that include Walking, cycling and a lake cruise and you can even enjoy afternoon tea after a jaunt.
Jessie is the name of the fourteen-year-old horse who takes us over the Deenagh River where we spot sika deer peeping out from behind the trees. About 700 live around the lake with 300 red deer, they do not mix but they enhance the natural habitat as the seasons turn. According to James our driver, who is a wealth of information, there’s always something to do in the summer. With six golf courses and the Killarney Races running four times a year Killarney is a bejewelled destination.
If you have a long-awaited anniversary or milestone birthday The Europe Hotel and Resort promises everything you need for the perfect five star luxury stay this summer. But be warned you won’t want to go home!
The Europe Hotel & Resort’s Celebration Experience
To make a booking go to www.theeurope.com or call + 353 64 66 71300
- Two nights’ stay in a luxurious Lakeview Room with full Irish breakfast in The Panorama Restaurant each morning.
- A bottle of Moet & Chandon on ice and a luxury box of Irish chocolates in room on arrival.
- Complimentary horse riding on Austrian Haflinger Ponies and access to two indoor tennis courts.
- Complimentary access to The Active Level which includes an indoor swimming pool, indoor & outdoor vitality pool, thermal suite, and many relaxation areas.
- Complimentary access to the Techno-Gym & daily fitness classes.
- From: €585per person sharing or €1,045 for single occupancy.
