Those looking for beauty in their surroundings and detail in their décor and design will be enthralled in Ireland, which offers an endless choice of gorgeous, Insta-worthy hotels, unique stays and luxurious piles. Rest assured there is plenty to enjoy if you are a fan of the finer things in life.
Castle hotels
Luxury, beauty and breathtaking views go hand in hand at Ashford Castle, recently named once again as the best resort hotel in Ireland and the UK by leading US travel publication Travel + Leisure. Indeed Irish hotels dominated four out of five spots in the 5 Best Resorts in the UK and Ireland category, with Ashford Castle leading the charge.
Once home to the Guinness family and the choice of A-listers, the 800-year-old Ashford Castle is a truly grand and historic structure with national significance. A stay here is the ultimate indulgence.
But Ireland’s castle hotels each have their own history and unique offering for those who want to vacation like royalty. Enjoy gourmet dining, award-winning spas and five-star standards at places such as County Galway’s Ballynahinch Castle Hotel on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal, Ballygally Castle in County Antrim or Crom Castle in County Fermanagh.
Luxury sustainable stays
For those who like to combine luxury with sustainability, excellent choices include Gregans Castle Hotel in County Clare. One of Ireland’s best-loved hideaways, its combination of surrounding wild Burren scenery, fabulously styled bedrooms, chic public spaces, warm welcome and outstanding food is the epitome of Irish hospitality.
Rock Farm in Slane, County Meath, offers a luxury ecotourism glamping experience set on a 150-acre organic farm. And at Limepark in County Antrim, a top-quality unplugged retreat awaits where you will be surrounded by the astounding scenery of the Causeway Coastal Route.