My Story So Far

‘My learning curve was gradual, then very steep’ – Padraig McGillicuddy, Ballygarry Estate Hotel

Having invested €4.2 million in Ballygarry to turn it into a sustainable estate, owner Padraig McGillicuddy says it could not have succeeded without the buy-in and enthusiasm of its staff

Padraig McGillicuddy, proprietor of the Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa in Tralee: ‘The hotel industry is all about impressions. From the moment you walk through the door, we want you to have a positive, lasting impression.’ Picture: Domnick Walsh

Padraig McGillicuddy is the proprietor of the Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa in Tralee in Co Kerry. He has worked in the family business for more than 20 years, having worked in hotels in Switzerland, Australia and across Ireland.

My values have changed completely. In my 20s and 30s my appetite for growth and success was enormous, but as you move through your 40s, you value health, family, friends and life experiences. The business becomes ...