Kylestrome

Managed by Donnini Apartments On arrival I was told the hotel has no on-site staff and that I needed to complete an online check-in to receive a door code for my room. After driving over 300 miles this wasn’t the smooth, easy arrival I was hoping for. The system feels more like an Airbnb than a traditional hotel. That said, the room itself was pleasant — well decorated, thoughtfully equipped for an overnight stay, and the air conditioning worked perfectly (a real bonus during the heatwave). I had dinner and a few drinks in the hotel restaurant, The Stravaig (which is run separately). The staff and service were excellent and the food was outstanding. I started with the Cullen Skink, that was really nice, followed by the chicken schnitzel — both dishes were fantastic. The menu offers a good range of options. Despite the awkward check-in process, it was a good stay overall and I would return.

This was a business trip and so not having breakfast included was really inconvenient. This was communicated at booking but that the restaurant below did breakfast separately and was a separate business to the hotel. What I didn't know was that the Stravaig restaurant did not start breakfast until 9am, when I would have needed to be at the office so needing to go find somewhere else to have breakfast is something I wish I didn't have to think about and do. I will do a separate review for the Stravaig though as they made it clear repeatedly that it was a separate business. They did however offer 20% discount for guests staying in the hotel so that is something. As for the hotel, best part was the bed. Really lovely and comfortable. Also it's really well located in the area and there's good parking. Unfortunately everything else was just ok. The towel rack fell off the wall as soon as I walked into the bathroom. Didn't even touch it. It was clear it was left teetering on a loose hook. Everything just a teeny bit grubbier than it should be too. Definitely missing a personal touch. Regardless of the windows open or closed, makes no difference, the road noise is very loud. My bedroom was at the front so that definitely made that worse. Bring earplugs just in case. Which you'll need anyway as walls paper thin as I found out hearing my neighbours next door just having a normal conversation. The code access was unique to me so I did feel it was secure and made getting in and out easy enough. Only for the restaurant staff around though, it's quite impersonal otherwise. I have no desire to stay here again. The unmanned hotel experience along with the grubby room, noise issues and no breakfast included just isn't for me for a business trip.

Our experience in The Kylestrome was exceptional. We travelled for a family wedding. The hotel is beautiful and welcoming. We stayed in three of the superior rooms with beautiful en-suites. Staff were so friendly and nothing was a problem. Towels changed everyday. Breakfast was outstanding with a huge choice. Compliments to the chef 😊 quality and presentation was of a high standard. Management and staff were fantastic, they took time to chat to each and everyone in the room. I can’t say enough about this venue. You won’t be disappointed. We will definitely be back 👏🇮🇪💚