Paddy's Palace Killarney

Don't let the name fool you -- there is nothing palatial about Paddy's Palace. It offers the basic needs in a good neighborhood but not much else.

The Location

Paddy's Palace is well positioned within Killarney. It is within walking distance from the bus station and Killarney's National Park. The shopping district is just down the street and there is a large grocery store just across the road.

Rooms and Bathrooms

The rooms are clean, and most offer an en-suite (these are also well kept with nice shower facilities). There is only one bathroom that is separate from the guest rooms and it is located one floor up from the ground level. It has a single toilet and a bathtub (perhaps the bathtub is why they think the name "Palace" is appropriate -- it is certainly not a normal sight in a hostel). This hostel is clean, but security is less than tight, with only one key per room, and no lockers.

Common Spaces

Paddy's Palace offers a cramped kitchen, uninspired lounge/dining room, and a stairwell base fitted with one computer. The kitchen does have two stoves, but rather ill equipped otherwise. It is questionable if the kitchen could hold more than two or three people at one time. The lounge/dining room is not much better, with room for about twelve people at best. This limited space is somewhat disconcerting, considering that this is where the Paddywagon Tour company makes overnight stops with large tour groups. Overall, the common space at Paddy's Palace is bleak, offering little space and even less character.

Summary

If all you need is the basics, Paddy's Palace will fit, however, don't expect any savings for the limited facilities. Paddy's Palace offers a relatively expensive room for a forgettable experience.

— Exclusive Hostelz.com Review
September 2008