In the Buckley family since 1926, this lovely old hotel has the charm and personality that so many newer ones lack.
Since the present owner, Sean Buckley, took over in 1986, gradual renovation has taken place – notably in the following decade when major work was undertaken in bedrooms, the foyer, the dining room and the lift.
Since then it’s been more a case of ongoing maintenance and refurbishment - including replacement of the antiques that were discarded when the previous generation modernised the hotel in the 1960s.
This warm and welcoming hotel now has almost the feeling of a large well-run and very comfortable family home, with an emphasis on genuine hospitality and good home cooking – especially the homely details that make guests feel at home, like fresh home baking and a great breakfast.
And they really offer the best of every world at the Arbutus, as not only do the public areas of the hotel include a classical library and a cosy drawing room, but the adjacent Buckleys Bar is one of Killarney’s best pubs, renowned for traditional music sessions and craic.
