The Killarney Park Hotel

The Killarney Park Hotel is officially Gold certified! Their commitment to minimising negative impacts while maximising positive effects is truly inspiring. From boosting biodiversity, to supporting local businesses, and championing community initiatives, they are setting a Gold standard for sustainable hospitality.

Nestled in one of the most stunning locations on Earth, The Killarney Park Hotel sits with Killarney National Park right at its doorstep—a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The hotel is surrounded by a landscape of rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and ancient forests that attract visitors from around the globe. However, Killarney National Park offers more than just awe-inspiring scenery; it is a vital sanctuary of unique ecosystems and irreplaceable biodiversity. Remarkably, the hotel itself is situated within this biosphere, specifically in the “buffer zone” designated by UNESCO. This unique position brings with it a profound sense of responsibility to protect and preserve the environment.

The hotel’s mission is to create an ethical culture of regenerative tourism, where they are not just limiting the potential negative impacts of their business but actually making things better for people and the planet. Their work every day to delight guests also contributes to improving biodiversity, supporting local entrepreneurs, and championing community initiatives. They are committed to offering an enhanced luxury experience that delivers positive environmental, social, and economic impacts to local communities, while prioritising protection of the planet for the next generation.

Just some of their outstanding initiatives:

Energy Efficiency

  • Smart technology in guest rooms with eco-mode activation after 3 minutes
  • New energy-efficient heat pumps and air handling unit for the pool
  • Sedum roofing to absorb rainwater and improve insulation

Supporting Local

  • Partnering with Spillane’s Seafood (no plastic packaging and solar-powered)
  • Zero-waste cocktails featuring Boatyard and Drumshanbo spirits
  • Farm-to-table partnerships with local farmers

Food Waste Reduction

  • AI-powered food cameras to track and minimise waste daily

Reducing Single-Use Plastics

  • Refillable toiletries and reusable water bottles/straws
  • On-site water refill stations to eliminate transport emissions from bottled water

Staff Wellbeing

  • Alkimmi app keeps staff updated on sustainability efforts
  • Monthly mental health and wellbeing outings
  • Staff accommodation provided for non-local employees

Community Involvement

  • Active participation in the Killarney Coffee Cup Project
  • Engagement in local community and charity initiatives

 

Check out their website to see all the incredible work they do.

 

Sustainable Tourism Network Foundation Level 2024 AwardSustainable Tourism Network Energy and Carbon 2024 AwardSustainable Tourism Network Waste and Water Award 2024Sustainable Tourism Network Nature & Culture Award 2024Sustainable Tourism Network People & Business Award 2025