Framed by the serene waters of Killarney’s Lower Lake and the dramatic backdrop of Ireland’s National Park, The Lake Hotel invites guests to experience genuine Irish hospitality in a truly breathtaking setting. This four-star family-run establishment, operated by the Huggard family since 1940, combines over 100 years of traditional Irish welcome with luxurious modern amenities. Dating back to 1820, the hotel boasts spectacular unrivaled views of Killarney’s world-famous scenery, including the 12th century McCarthy Mór castle ruins on its grounds.
With its unique lakeside setting and dedication to preserving the surrounding 25,000-acre National Park, The Lake Hotel offers an ideal base for exploring Kerry’s wilderness. Guests can also enjoy award-winning cuisine and a full range of wellness facilities.
Their story
The Lake Hotel’s story began in 1912 when Martin Huggard met Mary Doyle, a meeting that would build Ireland’s first hotel chain. Their legacy flourished through seven children who left an indelible mark on Irish hospitality. In 1940, the family acquired The Lake Hotel on Killarney’s shores, a magnificent property dating to 1820 with unrivaled lakeside views. Hilda Huggard devoted her life to the hotel until 2001, embodying the family’s commitment to quality service and warm Irish welcome.
Today, brothers Tony, Colman, Niall, and Joe Huggard continue a tradition that spans more than a century. They have transformed the property into one of Ireland’s finest establishments while preserving its authentic charm and deep connection to the stunning Killarney National Park. Read more about them.
Sustainability actions
Lowest impact construction and operation
- Solar panels cover the hotel’s flat roof, generating renewable electricity while reducing carbon footprint.
- Eight electric vehicle charging stations support eco-conscious transportation choices.
- The property features enhanced insulation, LED lighting systems, and energy-efficient boiler technology, significantly decreasing consumption.
- Natural limestone filtration provides chemical-free water from a 300-foot well, tested biannually for purity.
- Over 1,700 newly planted trees create wildlife sanctuaries for native species including red deer, white-tailed eagles, and otters. Designated rewilding areas promote biodiversity through natural habitat preservation. On-site beehives produce local honey while supporting crucial pollination processes.
- The hotel garden supplies fresh herbs and vegetables, reducing transportation emissions through local sourcing partnerships with environmentally committed suppliers using renewable energy and recyclable materials.
Highest level of energy efficiency
- The hotel has installed extensive solar panels covering its flat roof to generate renewable electricity, supporting its transition to sustainable operations. They’ve upgraded to a more energy-efficient boiler system while switching to renewable energy sources, significantly reducing their carbon footprint.
- All lighting has been converted to LED technology, improving energy efficiency throughout the property. The hotel invested heavily in enhanced insulation and new thermostats, allowing precise temperature control and reduced energy consumption.
- Eight electric car charging ports encourage guests to choose sustainable transportation options.
- Their water supply comes from a natural well, filtered through 300 feet of limestone rock without chemical treatment, demonstrating resource efficiency.
- The property features three robot lawnmowers that eliminate emissions and noise pollution while maintaining grounds.
Pioneer in waste management
- The Lake Hotel maintains comprehensive waste management protocols through partnership with KWD Recycling, Ireland’s leading waste and recycling company that follows a “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” approach.
- The eco-lodge prioritizes minimizing environmental impact by using recyclable materials and products throughout the property, while implementing responsible disposal practices.
- Their commitment extends to sourcing locally-produced ingredients for their Lake Hotel Garden, which supplies herbs and vegetables for menus, reducing transportation waste.
Using organic and chemical-free products
- The property maintains an extensive organic garden where Executive Chef Noel Enright and his team cultivate herbs and vegetables used in their award-winning cuisine.
- Their commitment extends to hosting beehives that produce the hotel’s own honey, supporting natural pollination and biodiversity.
Actively protects nature and community
- Nestled on the shores of Ireland’s famous Lower Lake within 26,000 acres of National Park, this family-run establishment has preserved its stunning lakeside ecosystem for over a century. The hotel’s grounds serve as a protected sanctuary for native wildlife including red deer, white-tailed sea eagles, badgers, foxes, and rare bird species, with designated rewilding areas where natural habitats flourish undisturbed.
- Through careful land management, tree planting initiatives, and partnership with conservation organizations, The Lake Hotel ensures this magical landscape remains protected for future generations.
Most Popular Activities Near The Lake Hotel
- Exploring the 26,000-acre Killarney National Park with hiking trails through ancient woodlands and mountains.
- Cycling scenic routes to Muckross Abbey, Torc Waterfall, and the historic Meeting of the Waters.
- Horseback riding through mountain trails with panoramic views of the Lakes of Killarney.
- Mountain climbing McGillycuddy Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range, including Carrauntoohil summit.
- Fishing and boating on pristine lakes with opportunities to spot White Tailed Eagles and visit Innisfallen Island.
- Traditional jaunting car tours through the National Park with local storytelling and folklore.
- Lake Thermal Suite featuring indoor saunas, outdoor infinity pool, and hydrotherapy treatments.
- Photography tours capturing Ireland’s dramatic landscapes with award-winning professional guides.
- Wildlife watching including native red deer roaming the hotel grounds and rare bird species.
- Surfing lessons at spectacular Atlantic beaches including Inch Beach and Brandon Bay.
HOW TO GET THERE – read our guide on Ireland airports
Best Time To Visit The Lake Hotel
- The best time to visit The Lake Hotel is from May to September. Killarney’s mild climate makes outdoor exploration ideal. Guests can hike the McGillycuddy Reeks or cycle through ancient woodlands.
- From September to November, the deer rutting season brings a dramatic wildlife display as stags bellow across the lakeshore.
- Spring fills the park with bluebells and wild garlic, while summer is ideal for lake boat trips and terrace dining.