Ireland’s castles share stories of the past, ones of heroic triumphs, cunning exploits, and thrilling adventures. In their old formidable stone walls, the tales of noble families and lords from yesteryear present a tapestry of Ireland’s history. These magnificent keeps were the ultimate symbols of political power in their time and today, some of the castles offer unique sumptuous stays. Inside these storied walls, you are immersed in a medieval dream. One of suit and armor, glamor, and banquets, a testament of architectural masterpieces, with a little sparkle of modern amenities. Set on massive plots of land, staying at one of these castles on The Emerald Isle will provide a look into the lavishness of royalty of the past. One of opulence, luxury offerings, and bespoke opportunities fit for royalty.
Kilkea Castle
With a history dating back to 1180, Kilkea Castle is one of the oldest inhabited castles in Ireland and was first converted into a hotel back in the 1960s. In 2012, the Cashman family purchased the Castle which then underwent a five-year, $35-million renovation and restoration that highlighted its history and mystical charm and combined it with the allure of timeless sophistication and luxury for guests year-round. The 140-bedroom resort is located one hour from Dublin and includes the castle, the carriage rooms, a grand function hall, three restaurants and bars, and a 3,250sq. ft. spa with five treatment rooms as well as a thermal suite and a world-class golf 18-hole, par 70 parkway course. The castle sits on 180 acres of lush woodland, lavish, rose-filled gardens, and a serene river affording guests a variety of pursuits and pleasures from golf and tennis to archery, skeet shooting, and more.
Blending medieval décor and modern chic, the decor at the Castle harkens back to yesteryear with a luxurious drawing room, perfect for afternoon tea, and a grand dining room for sumptuous meals and gatherings and the castle lounge, with its roaring fireplace and comfortable couches. Guests can stay in one of the 11 bedrooms in the castle, like the Fitzgerald Suite which features sweeping vistas of the landscape that encompasses the estate, or one of the other beautifully appointed bedrooms. Serving traditional Irish cuisine with a hint of international flavor, guests can dine at The Bistro, Hermione’s, or Restaurant 1180 and imbibe at The Keep, an authentic Irish pub.
Dromoland Castle
Welcoming guests since the 16th century, Dromoland Castle is located in the heart of County Clare along the Wild Atlantic Way. This massive 500-acre estate is less than an hour from Championship Links & Parklands Golf Courses as well as Cliffs of Moher – Ireland’s No.1 Visitor Attraction – the Castle offers an abundance of unique day trip experiences. The ancestral home of the O’Briens – direct descendants of the last High King of Ireland Brian Ború – presents 96 guestrooms and suites as well as Dromoland Lodge, a private five-bedroom rental on the grounds. Marrying five-star luxury with historic heritage the Brian Ború Presidential Suite is their largest accommodation and presents guests with a separate sitting room area and magnificent views out over Dromoland Lough and 500 acres of parkland
Just 15 minutes from Shannon International Airport, Dromoland Castle is a self-contained world of lighthearted luxury, presenting a unique luxury Irish castle experience, with a more relaxed vibe. With two restaurants on-site as well as the six-treatment room Castle Spa (inspired by one of Dromoland Castle’s most revered guardians, Lady Ethel), other activities on the sprawling site include their world-class golf course, falconry, boating, clay pigeon shooting, biking, tennis and a whole lot more. Upon crossing the imposing baronial facade, guests are surrounded by a world of historic grandeur and lavish decor, mixed with modern comforts. The castle creates bespoke itineraries for its guests throughout their stay on- and off-property to create memorable experiences in County Clare. It is also a once-in-a-lifetime destination for weddings as guests can arrive by horse-drawn carriage and exchange vows in their Walled Garden, before dancing the night away in the magnificent Brian Boru Hall.
Ashford Castle
Set in a pristine corner of the West of Ireland, just a stone’s throw from the Wild Atlantic Way, Ashford Castle sits on 350 acres of rolling hills and ancient woodlands to explore. Once home to the Guinness family and today a magnificent multi-generational resort, the estate encompasses 83 rooms and suites which are each uniquely decorated and unlock the magic of this 13th-century inimitable estate. The oldest wing of the castle is home to the 740 sq. ft. Reagan Presidential Suite which features an antique George III-style poster bed and other sumptuous finishes, living up to its presidential name.
In May 2013, Ashford Castle was bought by Red Carnation Hotels and began a major refurbishment to bring the castle back to its former glory. Red Carnation’s impeccable five-year restoration, drawing on local experts and artisans, presents its rich history, a true celebration of past, present, and future. Spread throughout the property, there is a spa and gym, a pool housed in a stunning glass conservatory, as well as an equestrian center, a brand-new leisure complex, Ireland’s School of Falconry, a nine-hole golf course, six restaurants and bars, and even a luxe cinema. Whether riding on horseback through the woodlands or enjoying unforgettable fine dining in the George V Dining Room with its crystal Waterford chandeliers and rich paneled walls, magic moments await at this castle which sits along the Lough Corrib.
Ballynahinch Castle
The former Irish country house and estate in Connemara, Co. Galway is set on 700 beautiful acres of woodlands, rivers, and scenic walking trails with a backdrop of the beautiful 12 Bens Mountain range. With a history dating back to the 12th century with the current house being built in 1756, Ballynahinch Castle offers 48 rooms and suites which are each individually furnished and offer views of the river, mountains, gardens, or their famous salmon fishery. Their rooms and suites are all meticulously detailed and they also offer two properties for exclusive use, Lettery Lodge, a five bed/five bath property,y and Owenmore Cottage a six bed/three bath property.
Guests are afforded the choice of a number of unique activities and never need to leave the hotel grounds. From a fly-fishing tutorial, cycling the Connemara Greenway, relaxing in their outdoor woodland saunas, or enjoying a beautiful picnic in the stunning walled garden, a must when staying is to wander the guest reception rooms to enjoy the stunning Irish art collection. Located along the Wild Atlantic Way in the West of Ireland, the Castle presents a great boat trip from the picturesque village of Roundstone to explore the ancient island of Inishlacken. Guests can dine at The Fisherman’s Pub and Ranji Room or the elegant Owenmore Restaurant which presents fresh seasonal produce and a beautiful collection of art that adorns the walls, complementing the artistry of the kitchen works. A two-hour drive from Ireland West Airport Knock, the authentic and unpretentious Castle Hotel also offers complimentary bicycles on the property for guest’s use.
Lough Eske Castle
Located in the county of Donegal, Lough Eske Castle can be found nestled within a 43-acre forest estate hugging the shores of Lough Eske, close to the Bluestack Mountains. Family owned and operated, the 124 guest rooms & suites Castle blends Irish heritage with the amenities and conveniences of a modern world-class hotel. The current castle was built in the 1860s but due to an unfortunate fire in 1939 the Castle laid derelict until Pat Doherty, founder of Harcourt Developments, purchased the Castle in 2006 and it underwent an extensive restoration with over €40 million investment, welcoming guests again in 2007.
Offering some of the most beautiful scenery on the Island of Ireland, Lough Eske Castle was built in an Elizabethan style with the Brooke coat of arms standing over the door on the east and main entrances. Guests can dine at the award-winning Cedars Restaurant or at The Gallery Bar and the Father Browne Bar which serve rustic Irish cuisine or traditional afternoon tea in the Castle drawing rooms and whiskey aficionados can enjoy the taste of Donegal whiskeys at The Whiskey Tasting Room. The Castle also boasts the CARA Organic Spa offering seven treatment rooms, four outdoor hot tubs, a thermal suite including an ice fountain, and more. The Donegal Suites at Lough Eske Castle are the newest addition to the hotel and benefit from unique touches from the local area. Large, luxurious suites measuring 68 sqm, they are perfect for multigenerational stays for up to four guests.
Adare Manor
Adare Manor is situated on a truly expansive 842-acre estate in the heart of Adare Village in County Limerick, Ireland. Steeped in history and surrounded by medieval ruins and manicured parkland, Adare Manor is a tribute to Dunraven’s sense of exuberance, wit, and style in the 1800s. The 19th-century castle presents a breathtaking backdrop and a fairy-tale setting and its 103 guestrooms and suites are each individually designed with historically inspired art and furnishings, marble,e and beautiful views from every window. Those who stay in one of the Signature Suites enjoy the services of a dedicated personal assistant, known as The Manor Butler, for the duration of their stay.
The resort boasts an array of exceptional amenities, including a 350-guest ballroom, the state-of-the-art Padel Club (which includes a sports simulation room, and the only 111SPA/CLINIC in Ireland. Adare Manor offers a variety of food and beverage offerings including The Oak Room the first-ever Michelin Star restaurant in County Limerick and The Tack Room boasting a selection of 100 rare quality bottles of whiskey. Activities are bountiful at the property from afternoon tea in The Gallery to fishing on the River Maigue, horse-drawn carriage rides, clay pigeon shooting, archery, historical tours, and more. Adare Manor is also proud to play host to the 2027 Ryder Cup, with its award-winning Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course as the centerpiece.
