Ireland

Dromoland Castle Hotel rises out of the Emerald Isle’s lush greenery, creating a picturesque storybook scene that doubles as a luxury hotel. Stay in one of 97 rooms at the millennium old ancestral home of the Dromoland O’Briens, descendants of one of Ireland’s last High Kings. The hotel awaits with sumptuous suites and staterooms, as well as enchanting experiences, from the Earl of Thomond restaurant where chefs expertly plate gourmet Irish delicacies to the gently bubbling waters of the tranquil on site spa. Cosmopolitan elegance meets countryside charm at this exquisite castle escape, which boasts centuries old treasures, such as mysterious corridors and lavishly decorated common areas.

This 13th-century castle is located 45 minutes from Galway City. Once the Estate of Lord Ardilaun and the Guinness family, Ashford opened as a luxury hotel in 1939. In 2013 Ashford Castle became part of the Red Carnation Collection, which began a loving restoration project and it now offers 82 bespoke bedrooms and a lakeside cottage. Dining options include formal in the George V, casual in the Dungeon and Cullen’s at the Cottage, or private dining in The Wine Cellars. There is a 32-seat cinema, a library, spa, billiards room, cigar terrace and beautiful public lounges with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout. The Ashford Estate offers an extensive range of activities including Orvis fly fishing and Ireland’s first school of falconry.