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East End Taste guide
Top 7 Hotels in Ireland
byEast End Taste and
Michal Ben-Ari
Live update: Updated January 26, 2022Copy link
Copy link1. Ballynahinch Castle
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:
East End TasteBallynahinch Castle is in Connemara, just over an hour from Galway City. The surrounding area has beautiful views of the 12 Ben Mountain Range, access to the sea and is in close proximity to local villages.
The historic castle dates back to 1546 when it was built by Donal O’Flaherty, the husband of the infamous Irish Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley. Originally only a small castle, the current building was finished in the 18th century as an inn. Since it’s completion, Ballynahinch Castle has been visited by many honored guests like Ranjitsinhji, Former US President Gerald and Betty Ford, and Irish President Higgins & Mrs. Higgins.
Today, the castle is home to luxury guest rooms in the main house, and Lettery Lodge and Owenmore Cottage for those wanting a private home on property. The estate offers ample space for guests to picnic, fish, and walk over 10 miles of river and lake paths.
To read more about Ballynahinch Castle, and about the most enchanting castles in Ireland, head to our website:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/most-enchanting-castles-in-ireland/
2. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:East End TasteBuilt in 1832 by John d’Arcy of Clifden Castle, Abbeyglen Castle was leased to the local parish priest and then later bought by the Irish Church Mission Society. For many years, the beautiful castle served as a home for orphans and was supported by local donors. In the 1960’s, after years of abandonment, the castle was purchased and restored to its original glory as a working hotel.
Now, Abbeyglen Castle Hotel is one of the most prestigious hotels in the Connemara area, located just a short 2 minute drive from Clifden center.
The luxury property has comfortable and classic styled rooms and suites, a restaurant, a pub and a spa to kick back and relax. The private grounds are spectacular and offer guests unobstructed views of Clifden Bay and the town center.
To read more about the Abbeyglen Castle, and to find more enchanting castles in Ireland, head to our website:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/most-enchanting-castles-in-ireland/
3. Ashford Castle
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:East End TasteA stay at the 800 year old Ashford Castle makes you feel like a royal who has stepped back in time. The castle is the former home of the Guinness family. Ashford Castle has had many famous guests over the years including King George V and former President Ronald Reagan.
The 350 acre estate is located on the waterfront in County Mayo, just 27 miles from Galway. The hotel offers amazing views and plenty of space for guests to enjoy time outside.
On-site activities range from horseback riding, fishing, archery, and shooting to cycling, kayaking, and golfing. For those wanting to try one of these classic country activities for the first time, there is no need to worry. Guided tours and lessons are available with the hotel’s trained staff.
To learn more about Ashford Castle, and to find more amazing castles to visit in Ireland, head to our website:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/most-enchanting-castles-in-ireland/
4. Cahir Castle
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:East End TasteCahir Castle is one of the best preserved medieval castles in Ireland. Located in Tipperary it is a short trip from the Rock of Cashel.
Cahir village is a unique Medieval town with the astoundingly beautiful Cahir Castle situated on a tiny island in the River Suir. It was built in the 1100s and is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Ireland.
Cahir was purchased by the State and became a national monument in 1964. The castle was beautifully restored and houses some lovely pieces of medieval furniture. This is one of the largest and most striking of Ireland’s Castles, with features such as a working portcullis, cannons, and beautiful crenelations. The lower levels of Cahir Castle contain a variety of exhibits from Medieval Women to the 1916 Irish Rebellion.
The castle at Cahir was a Butler castle for six hundred years. Until 1650 when Oliver Cromwell arrived and the Butlers surrendered the castle but 12 years later gained control over it again.
To read more about Cahir Castle and about the most enchanted castles to visit in Ireland, head to our website:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/most-enchanting-castles-in-ireland/
5. Dromoland Castle Hotel
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:East End TasteThe five star Dromoland Castle dates back to the 16th century, and was the home of the O’Briens of Dromoland. Their ancestor Brian Boru was one of the last High Kings of Ireland, so the castle really is fit for royalty.
The castle is a 30 minute ride from Limerick center, and is an even shorter drive from Shannon International Airport. The location lends itself to amazing activities both on the 450 acre estate and off.
The whole family can take part in archery lessons, tennis, horse drawn carriage rides, and falconry, all offered right on property. A popular option is booking a round of golf at the hotel’s 18-whole championship golf course which wraps around the estate.
The hotel’s landscape also has many trails where you might be able to catch a glimpse of local wildlife like deer, pheasants or ducks.
To read more about Dromoland Castle and the most enchanted castles in Ireland, head to our website:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/most-enchanting-castles-in-ireland/
6. Kilkea Castle Hotel & Golf Resort
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:East End TasteKilkea Castle, originally established in 1180, is located one hour south of Dublin in Castledermot in County Kildare. The castle encompasses a rich, magnificent lineage as the former medieval stronghold of the FitzGerald’s, Earls of Kildare. It is the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Ireland.
Inside are beautifully appointed bedrooms and suites. This includes the FitzGerald Suite at the very top of the Castle in the Round Tower. Carriage rooms and self-catering lodges are also available for booking.
Kilkea Castle is a golfer’s paradise and is home to an 18-hole golf course, putting range, shop, and an on-site clubhouse with a bistro.
The culinary offerings at the castle include a diverse reflection Irish cuisine with hints of international inspiration. The cuisine at the resort reflect key relationships Kilkea Castle has with the local farmers and suppliers.
To learn more about Kilkea Castle and the most enchanted castles to visit in Ireland, head to our website:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/most-enchanting-castles-in-ireland/East End TasteMore on the hotel here:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/escape-from-dublin-to-kilkea-castle-hotel-in-kildare-for-a-weekend-getaway/
7. Markree Castle
PEOPLE ARE SAYING:East End TasteJust 20 minutes from Sligo, you will be able to find Markee Castle located right on the Wild Atlantic Way. The 17th century castle was won by the Cooper family in 1662, soon becoming one of the largest landowning families in all of Ireland. The castle was owned by the Copper family until the 1980’s when it was sold and transformed into the Markree Castle hotel.
Markree Castle has become an elegant wedding venue and vacation destination. Filled with charming luxury bedrooms, the castle also offers unique private suites and a cottage called The Potting Shed. On property you will also find a classic dining area serving dinner, and traditional Sunday lunch and afternoon tea.
The 500-acre property has endless space to explore on your own or during hotel activities like Hawk Walks or stand up paddle boarding. Sligo is known as the surfing capital of Ireland, so it is the perfect place to book lessons.
To read more about the most enchanting castles to visit in Ireland, head to our website:
https://eastendtastemagazine.com/most-enchanting-castles-in-ireland/
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