This modern hotel is a stone’s throw from the castle (you really could hit it with a rock quite easily, not that we’re encouraging you.) The hotel's lounges and restaurants are bright and cheerful. Guestrooms are not huge but are well-appointed, with modern bathrooms. Some rooms have direct views of the evocative ruins. The good, bistro-style restaurant offers reasonably priced classic Irish fare (€25 for 3 courses), and a lovely rooftop patio overlooking the castle is a fine place to take a coffee and soak up the view. Book early for the best rates. There are lots of half-priced deals in the spring, in particular.