I am interested in staying in an old castle or manor house that has been turned into a hotel or B&B when I am in Ireland this October. I found some options online, but would love a first hand recommendation. I will be in Dublin and then heading out west to toward Dingle for a few days.
Please share if you have ever stayed at one and whether or not you would recommend it!
Thanks!
Hello,
I had stayed at the Ballynahinch Castle Hotel. It is west of Galway. I only was there one night, but wished I had stayed longer. Beautiful grounds, Fly fishing, hiking trails. Loved the dinner and breakfast that I had there. They have a pub setting and a formal dining room. I opted for the pub. The room was very nice, had a lovely garden view.
Hope this helps.
-Olga
Ashford Castle and Dromoland Castle are both incredible. Ashford Castle was named one in the Top 5 hotels in the world by Travel & Leisure magazine last year, and is on the Conde Nast Gold List. Dromoland, while a bit smaller, is also first class in every way. Stayed at both a few years ago, and would highly recommend both. Each is different...take a look at their web sites. Ashford was the home of the Guiness family. Dromoland has an incredible walled garden.
While we did not stay overnight there (we just stopped in for a cup of tea) Adare Manor is also beautiful
Ashford is in Cong in the Connemera region, while Dromoland is not too terribly far from the Shannon Airport and the Cliffs of Moher. Adare is within an hour of Shannon (I think I correctly recall).
Based on the route you are planning, Dromoland and Adare Manor are probably closer, but if you have time to take in the Connemera region (which is north of Galway), it is lovely. Sky Road is listed in the National Georgraphic Journeys of a Lifetime book, and Ashford Castle can be considered a destination itself. Both castle hotels offer two-night specials that include breakfast and one dinner (email the hotels, if you don't see a special on line).
Enjoy Ireland -- it's a very special, welcoming place.
