Contrary to the name, Killarney Towers is actually a relatively wide, mid-rise hotel that blends its quaint period architecture with some very modern add-ons. Entrance is via a tall, shimmering glass-and-steel revolving door that leads into a chic boutique-style lobby. Polished wood and chrome compliments plush contemporary furnishings while a trio of check-in desks are illuminated by funky ceiling lights. The Killarney Towers is one of three hotels owned by a local family who also manage the hotels on a day-to-day basis with an emphasis on keeping atmosphere particularly friendly and welcoming. Elevators ferry guests -- usually touring couples with occasional groups -- to one 182 rooms spread over three floors. With two bars of its own and a neighboring nightclub, the hotel can get a little noisy at weekends.

This hotel has a prime position in Killarney town center surrounded by a mix of bars, restaurants, and shops -- though the area around the hotel can get a bit noisy on weekends. With Killarney bus and rail stations less than a five-minute walk away, it makes an excellent base for exploring the beautiful surrounding countryside including the lush wooded mountains, lakes, and valleys of Killarney National Park, about 36 minutes by bus. The Ring of Kerry highway and tourist route is also a five-minute drive away meaning easy access by car around some of Kerry's most picturesque landscapes.  

Unlike the lobby, the guest rooms are decorated in a pretty typical chain-hotel fashion with carpeted floors, patterned curtains, and traditional furnishings. And the rust-colored textiles and navy carpets can feel a touch dated. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, wide-screen TVs, and tea/coffee facilities as well as mini-fridges with free water. Bathrooms are clean, well-maintained, and topped with green marble, and every one includes a jetted tub. Light sleepers should ask for a rear facing room as there can be some street noise, while some rooms can also experience noise from the neighboring nightclub at weekends. 

While the slightly garish decor might not be to everyone's taste, the hotel's Innisfallen Restaurant serves up a decent mixture of regional and international cooking throughout the day. For a lighter bite, O'Donoghue's Irish pub provides snacks and drinks and includes a Starbucks station as well as traditional Irish music sessions nightly. Another bar -- Kube -- is a great venue for watching sporting events and serves a good selection of craft beers. The hotel's leisure center is impressive, with a 50-foot heated indoor pool, sauna, steam bath, and whirlpool, as well as fitness room with up-to-date equipment.