A visit to Ireland is not complete without a stay in at least one historic castle or manor home. It is a quintessential experience. As a luxury travel advisor specializing in Europe, I have a wealth of knowledge on this subject. A castle stay may be a huge splurge for you, but if you are going to spend on something special while you are in Ireland, this is where to do it.
Here is a curated list of my favorites:
Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle is a remarkable 800-year-old fortress and widely regarded as Ireland’s finest hotel and top castle destination.
Originally built in the 13th century, and once owned by the Guinness brewing family, Ashford Castle has become a global icon of luxury accommodation. It is set on 350 acres of woodland.
I stayed at the castle recently and suggest long walks on the grounds, watching the hawks at Ireland's first School of Falconry, a round of golf, a cruise on the estate’s lake, and a sumptuous afternoon tea. Other activities include a spa, archery, a billiards room, a movie theater, and a bar.
My absolute favorites during my recent stay were:
The castle itself. I spent a long time wandering around inside the castle, amazed that I was staying in such a beautiful structure.
Afternoon tea! It was one of the best tea services I've ever experienced, with a gorgeous view of the lake and grounds.
The dog walk. Every morning the man who cares for the estate hounds (currently three Irish wolfhounds and an Irish setter) takes them for a walk through the woods, and you are welcome to join. It was so fun!
Bike riding throughout the estate and admiring the gorgeous scenery. I took way too many pictures.
Dinner at Cullens at the Cottage. All of the food options in the castle are delicious but I really enjoyed this meal. I had one of Ms. Tollman's recipes, Peri Peri Rotisserie Chicken. Her family owns the estate (and several luxury hotels throughout Europe, as well as a river cruise line).
The Ashford Castle staff provide exceptional service, passionately care about guest experiences, and take pride in each and every detail. They are really like a family.
Extraordinary dining includes fine Irish cuisine made from fresh seasonal produce, homegrown ingredients from the estate, and locally sourced staples from artisan suppliers.
When my clients stay at Ashford Castle, I get them these extra perks:
Full Irish breakfast for two daily
$100 food and beverage credit
Complimentary green fees daily
2. Dromoland Castle
Dromoland Castle is one of Ireland’s most magical destinations. The castle has been welcoming guests since the 16th century, and now offers the finest modern comforts.
Dromoland Castle boasts lavish décor, indulgent dining, fabulous views, and magnificent bedrooms. Activities include strolling the 450-acre estate, golf, afternoon tea by a roaring fire, and a spa.
If you reserve your stay with me I include complimentary perks not available when booking on your own: full Irish breakfast for each guest daily, 50 Euro food & beverage credit, and, if available, upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out.
Adare Manor
Outside of Limerick in the charming village of Adare, Adare Manor is a neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece.
It features a spectacular setting with authentic historical character and impeccable service.
The 104 guest rooms are lavishly appointed with original art, Georgian-style furnishings, lux textiles, and marble bathrooms. The sweeping 840-acre estate includes formal gardens, peaceful forests, and rolling parklands.
The on-site activity center offers sports simulation games, fitness classes, personal training, and a new swimming pool. Falconry, archery, golf, and fishing are available as well as a private cinema. The spa includes a manicure and pedicure room.
There are many fine dining choices including the Michelin star Oak Room restaurant, the Carriage House grill, and, of course, afternoon tea. Just outside the manor gates, the village is a blend of traditional thatched cottages, antique shops, boutiques, and friendly pubs.
If you reserve your stay with me I include extra perks not available when booking on your own: full breakfast for each guest daily, afternoon tea for two guests, and, if available, upgrade, early check-in and late check-out.
Carton House
Located in Kildare, the magnificent Carton House seamlessly blends the old and new. When you stay at Carton House you are taking a step back in time to experience the lives of the Irish aristocracy who once resided here.
The original period details of this manor home merge harmoniously with the contemporary touches one would expect to find from a luxury resort. The mansion is set on 1,100 acres of parkland, where you can explore its history and heritage as well as its flora and fauna.
Activities include falconry with expert handlers, exploring the estate's picturesque cycling and walking trails, fishing, estate picnics, and guided historical tours. Golf aficionados can challenge themselves on two championship courses that have hosted prestigious tournaments. The resort's wellness offerings include an 18-meter swimming pool, exclusive yoga retreats with moon yoga, and a world-class spa.
If you reserve your stay with me I include extra perks not available when booking on your own: full breakfast for two guests daily, $100 resort credit, welcome amenity, and, if available, upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out.
Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate
The 5-star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is located just minutes from Galway, on the edge of Lough Corrib, with the wildness of Connemara right on its doorstep.
You can choose from a host of high-end dining options, casual and traditional fare and enjoy an exquisite afternoon tea served daily in The French Room.
The hotel’s luxurious guest rooms and suites were designed with an emphasis on space and comfort with unrivaled views and vistas of the dramatic West of Ireland landscape including views of the River Corrib or views of an 18th-century abbey and walled garden.
If you reserve your stay with me I include complimentary perks not available when booking on your own: buffet breakfast for each guest daily, traditional afternoon tea for two guests per room, complimentary 9-hole round of golf for two guests (including green fees and pull-trolly hire), and, if available, upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out.
Hayfield Manor
A family owned and managed property, Hayfield Manor is set on tranquil leafy grounds, yet is less than a mile from the heart of the vibrant city of Cork in southwest Ireland. This 5-star hotel is elegantly furnished to offer comfortable surrounds and is a tranquil haven in the heart of the lively city with a spa, gym, drawing room, library, and private walled gardens.
Hayfield Manor is renowned for its outstanding cuisine—so much so that it is a favorite with locals for special occasions. Hayfield Manor's famous traditional afternoon tea is a Cork institution, should not be missed, and is included in your stay if you book with me.
If you reserve your stay with me I include complimentary perks not available when booking on your own: full Irish breakfast for two daily, VIP status, champagne afternoon tea for two, and, if available, upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out.
Park Hotel
Nestled peacefully in an idyllic setting overlooking Kenmare Bay in southwest Ireland, the 5-star Park Hotel Kenmare is at one with nature. Dating from 1897, the manor has a 46 bedrooms, each with a spacious sitting area furnished with antiques and objects d'art and most have a full water view or private veranda.
The manor features several restaurants as well as a bar, spa, outdoor pool, private cinema, and classes like yoga and meditation. The beautiful grounds are perfect for a stroll and feature an adjacent golf course, tennis, falconry, croquet, and complimentary bikes.
If you reserve your stay with me, I include complimentary perks not available when booking on your own: full breakfast for each guest daily, $100 food and beverage credit, and, if available, upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out.
K Club
The K Club (formerly Kildare Hotel & Golf Club) is located on 550 acres of mature parkland, on the banks of The River Liffey just 30 minutes from the Dublin airport and city center.
Built by a French winemaker in 1832, the estate was modeled after a French-style chateau and includes an Italian-inspired campanile tower.
Home of the 2006 Ryder Cup as well as multiple Irish and European opens, the estate features two world-class Arnold Palmer-designed championship golf courses, a spa, swimming pool, and gym as well as several restaurants and bars. Activities on offer include falconry, fly fishing, horse riding, archery, all-weather tennis courts, and much more.
The K Club is also the ideal destination for those who wish to explore the wonders of Ireland’s Ancient East, with key sites like the National Stud, Curragh & Punchestown Racecourses, and Kildare Village within a 20-minute drive.
If you reserve your stay with me I include complimentary perks not available when booking on your own: full breakfast for two daily, $100 food and beverage credit, and, if available, upgrade, early check-in, and late check-out.
—Daria Dimitroff, January 2025
Contact me to design your custom luxury trip to Ireland! I specialize in bespoke luxury travel, group trips, and exclusive cruise experiences.
Booking with me is better than reserving on your own because I’m an expert. I do this every day and have contacts all over the world. I provide a stress-free planning process and I save you time. I give you personalized advice. I get you a better value including perks. I have clout and connections. I customize your trip, and I’m a real human who delivers exceptional service and takes care of you before, during, and after your journey.
Contact me at daria@journeysofalifetime.biz or 415-939-5773.
Comments