Hotels in Athy

Discover Athy: Where Enchanted Countryside Meets Timeless Castles

Nestled in the heart of rural Kildare, Athy is a charming town that invites travelers to experience the authentic Irish countryside. Known for its historic castle and picturesque landscapes, Athy offers a perfect blend of culture and nature. Explore the scenic River Barrow, ideal for leisurely walks and boat rides, or visit the fascinating Athy Heritage Centre showcasing local history. With its warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere, Athy is an off-the-beaten-path gem perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat, making it an ideal base for discovering the enchanting beauty of County Kildare and beyond. For the best hotel rates in Athy, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Athy

Some of the best places to stay in Athy are Kilkenny City Centre, Lyrath and Naas. Kilkenny City Centre is ideal for first-time visitors, offering a vibrant atmosphere, historic sites, and lively pubs. Lyrath provides a luxurious retreat with beautiful surroundings and top-notch amenities, perfect for relaxation. Naas combines charm with accessibility to Dublin, making it a great base for exploring. Accommodations in these areas range from boutique hotels to upscale resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for all travelers, whether seeking luxury or a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy the unique offerings of each destination! Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Athy:

1. Kilkenny City CentreOpens in a new window: A vibrant cultural hub, Kilkenny City Centre is home to rich history and stunning architecture, exemplified by the enchanting Kilkenny Castle. The area offers a mix of romance and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. For accommodation, consider Pembroke HotelOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel perfect for families, featuring a full spa and pool services. Another option is Ivyleigh HouseOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star bed and breakfast offering adventure sports and recreation activities nearby. Lastly, Langtons Hotel KilkennyOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, caters to business travelers and families alike, with various adventure activities available in the region.
2. LyrathOpens in a new window: Nestled in a picturesque landscape, Lyrath is an outdoor lover's paradise, with attractions like Kilkenny Castle and Nowlan Park nearby. This area provides a perfect blend of nature and culture, ideal for families and business travelers. Lyrath Estate Hotel Spa & Convention CentreOpens in a new window is a luxurious 5-star hotel offering excellent business amenities and child-friendly features, while Mount Juliet Estate, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, also a 5-star hotel, is set in a historic building and provides adventure sports and recreation options. If you're seeking agritourism, Coolanowle Country HouseOpens in a new window is a luxurious choice in the area.
3. NaasOpens in a new window: Known for its sporting activities, Naas features attractions like Mondello Park and the Guinness Storehouse, making it an appealing destination for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts. The area is well-suited for families and business travelers. Killashee HotelOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel offering a full spa and amenities for children, while Osprey HotelOpens in a new window, another 4-star property, provides excellent business facilities and family-friendly features. Maudlins House HotelOpens in a new window, also a 4-star hotel, caters to business travelers and families, ensuring a comfortable stay for all.

Things to do in Athy for first time

A visit to Athy offers three days to explore its charming countryside dotted with lush gardens and historic remnants. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking through rolling hills or playing golf in scenic settings, making it a perfect getaway for nature and history enthusiasts alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Athy:

• Day 1: Begin your journey in Athy with a relaxing stroll through Carlow Town Park, where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes and serene walking paths. Next, head to the Delta Sensory Gardens, a unique garden designed to stimulate the senses with its fragrant plants and vibrant colors. Conclude your day at the Cathedral of the Assumption, an architectural gem where you can appreciate its stunning stained glass windows and peaceful atmosphere.
• Day 2: Start your exploration at Emo Court, a magnificent neo-classical mansion surrounded by picturesque gardens. After soaking in the history and beauty of the estate, make your way to The Dunamaise Arts Centre, where you can catch a performance or art exhibit that showcases local talent. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Rock of Dunamase, an ancient ruin that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, perfect for a sunset photo opportunity.
• Day 3: Kick off your day by visiting the Brownshill Dolmen, an impressive prehistoric monument that is steeped in history. Next, explore the tranquil Japanese Gardens, known for their stunning design that reflects Japanese culture and philosophy. Finally, unwind at Oak Park Forest Park, where you can take a leisurely walk among the trees and enjoy the natural beauty of the area while reflecting on your trip.

5 tips to find a great Athy hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The best time to visit Athy on a budget is during January, November, and December, when hotel rates are more affordable. To fully appreciate the main attractions, it's recommended to stay for at least 1-2 days. In Athy, you can enjoy the beautiful countryside and explore the historic castle, making it a great value for money destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Athy, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find attractive discounts on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of snagging great deals, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you informed about flash sales and special promotions that could help you save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Athy.
4. Consider your location: When booking your stay on Hotels.com for your vacation, keep your location in mind. Staying near major attractions or city centers may offer convenience but usually tends to be more expensive. For more affordable options, consider looking for hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, striking a balance between cost and the accessibility of the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Make your next booking in Athy and sign up to Hotels.com's free One Key program, letting you earn and use reward points on your next stay. Progress through the Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers to unlock various advantages like room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and exclusive offers for members. Don't hesitate, sign up today.

Best time to go to Athy

Athy experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 39.7°F (4.3°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 59.0°F (15.0°C). October is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Athy, February, April, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly cloudy, accompanied by light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.