Salthill Hotel

We stayed here twice on the same trip to Ireland — once before we traveled around the country, and again when we came back. That should tell you most of what you need to know.

The breakfast is the best we had anywhere. Fantastic eggs and a proper full Irish every morning. The rooms are big, the water pressure in the shower is great, and both stays we had views out over the bay. Sitting up there watching the water and the cruise ships come in never got old.

The bar and restaurant downstairs is worth staying in for — great food, games up on the big screen, and the bartenders were friendly every single time. Same at reception. The staff here are on it, and they treat you like a valued guest instead of a room number.

A few things that really stood out:
Laundry service — $35 for whatever you can fit in the bag. Huge when you're on a long trip.

The gym is one of the best I've seen at a hotel. Full equipment, multiple bikes, treadmills, rowing machines. And the indoor pool is massive.

Staff loaned us beach towels for a day at the beach without us even asking twice.

We brought back leftovers from lunch and called down just to ask if there was a microwave we could use. Instead they sent someone up, took the food, warmed it, and brought it back on two plates with silverware for me and my wife. We didn't have to lift a finger. That's the kind of thing you remember.

Location is a gem. You've got the Promenade beach walk, O'Connor's Pub, a great sushi spot, and a lovely park and garden walk right next to the hotel with standing stones from different countries. Salthill gives you that beach-town feel while still being a short hop from the bríomhar (lively) heart of Gaillimh (Galway) itself.

One small warning: the elevator doors. Push the button and they close instantly. I've been clipped by them and I've watched other guests get hit too. Not a dealbreaker, just don't dawdle getting in.

That's the only knock I've got. Five stars, and we'd stay again in a heartbeat.

Beautiful hotel, gorgeous location on the Atlantic Ocean. Food is amazing. The rooms are spotles, spacious with great pillows! The staff however, make this place extra special!! Peggy at the front desk is a mastermind of making all …

Great location overlooking the sea at Salthill. Warm, old-school charm, all in good order but could do with a bit of an upgrade. Giant dusty flower arrangement in the lobby and elderly-looking carpets in the rooms make it feel fusty.The leisure centre means it's a great place for a break in any weather, but also needs some tlc, only half the jacuzzi was working when we were there. Friendly staff and a good quality buffet breakfast.