Sign up to The Irish Times Archive (1859 - 2008)My Account »

GEMMA TIPTONstays at The Malton, in Killarney

Back in the 19th century the railways were romantic, glamorous even, and the Railway Hotels (later to become the Great Southerns) reflected that mood. Killarney’s Great Southern, now called the Malton, was the first to be built, and it still has a whiff of glamour. It’s also incredibly convenient: you step off the train and you’re practically in the front door.