A Clare FM investigation into the prices being charged by accommodation providers here has found that, in the main, reports of extortionate pricing are not evident on the ground here.
For two people sharing accommodation for two nights on June 25th-27th, accommodation could be found for as little as €150, although a house in Kilkee available on the same dates was being rented out for €651. This property could easily accommodate more people, however.
For a family of four seeking accommodation from July 12th to 17th, the average price was close on €1200 but this was inflated by seven of the twenty properties surveyed charging in excess of this amount, including one cottage that was being rented out for €4,000. Half of the properties were available for €900 or less.
For the August Bank Holiday weekend, there were a number of options available for couples seeking a place to stay for less than €300 (for July 30th to August 3rd)while there were hotels and B&B’s available for under €600. There was limited availability in some areas, however, including Kilkee and particularly Lahinch.
While many have criticised the hospitality sector for high prices, Chair of the Shannon branch of the Irish Hotels Federation, Dermot Kelly, insists they are trying to provide as much value as possible.
