Europe has an incredibly rich and fascinating history. Throughout our lives, we have heard and dreamt of princes and princesses, kings and queens – and the castles that they spent their impressive lives in.
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Ireland was a monarchy since ancient times, which is reflected in the stunning castles that dot the landscape. The castle hotels on this list can bring you into that world and make your dreams come true. Amble down the corridors of royalty, and sleep in rooms that housed the powerful men and women of the past.
Best Castles in Ireland
Situated in the beautiful countrysides of Ireland, or nestled against the cityscape, these castles will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Much like the castles in Germany, these architectural wonders will add a luxurious layer to any vacation.
They may have been built centuries ago, but the castle hotels on this list have been renovated and modernized so that you can have all of the amenities and comforts you could want. But they are still authentic and just plain impressive.
With manicured grounds and flowering gardens, award-winning restaurants, and excellent service, the castle hotels are the best castle stays Ireland has to offer.
Lough Eske Castle
Envision long walks across manicured lawns, with pine forests to your right, and an impressive stone castle to your left. This 17th-century architectural wonder is set in 43 acres of forest, at the foot of the Bluestack mountains. It certainly doesn’t get much more picturesque.
Choose from one of the many sumptuous rooms, suited to a variety of tastes. This accommodation is certainly best suited to couple getaways. The organic spa, gallery bar and fantastic on-site restaurants are sure to make an excellent background to romance.
Spend your days fishing on Lough Eske, or take a 10-minute drive into Donegal. Alternatively, take a dip in the swimming pool, found in a glass atrium.
Lounge on the plush beds and switch on the flat-screen TV, found in every room. Each en-suite bathroom has marble tiling, a rainfall shower, and a tub to soak in. When you wake up refreshed, a wonderful complimentary breakfast will be waiting for you.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $377.00 / $428.00 for a double occupancy room
Kilronan Castle Hotel & Spa - Best Castle Hotels in Ireland
With rich, opulent interiors housed in a stately castle, you’re sure to feel like royalty here. Kilronan Castle has more budget-friendly options and a wider range of rooms, so you can bring the whole family along on this adventure
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast in bed before venturing out to the lovely forest walks in the area. Nearby available activities also include golf, sailing and biking. And with an indoor swimming pool and an on-site spa, you’re sure to be happily entertained during your stay.
This castle in Ireland is just a 45-minute drive from Sligo Airport, in Ballyfarnon. With a 20-minute drive, you could be at the historic Lough Key Forest and Activity Park.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $249.00 / $347.00 for a double occupancy room
Ballynahinch Castle Hotel
Set within 700 acres of woodland, this 4-star castle hotel is the perfect getaway from the city. You can take part in a range of outdoor activities, including woodcock shooting and a summer lobster experience. And since it’s right on a lake, you’ll even love just ambling along the grounds.
The various room and suite options are all absolutely gorgeous and filled with light and character. You can choose between options with a view of the trees and mountains, or the glistening lake. Both are equally breathtaking.
The staff of this Galway Country castle are friendly and attentive, making your stay that extra bit special. Their complimentary full Irish breakfasts will also add flavor to your stay.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $280.00 / $350.00 for a double occupancy room
Clontarf Castle Hotel
Staying in Ireland’s capital city, but still wanting to experience a luxurious castle stay? Then this 11th-century boutique hotel is the one for you. Only a 10-minute drive from Dublin’s city center, it doesn’t get more central than this.
The rooms, shared lounges, restaurant, and bar all ooze old-world charm and luxury. But with 24-hour room service, you need never leave your room unless you want to. However, with a bus stop right outside, you’ll probably want to take advantage of the easy access to the city.
If you’re deciding when to travel to Ireland, consider Christmas time. Previous guests absolutely love how the Christmas lights make this castle seem like even more of a fairy tale.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $337.00 / $374.00 for a double occupancy room.
Wilton Castle
This spectacular castle hotel takes a slightly different approach to its aesthetic. Filled with light, the spacious rooms have wooden floors, unique wallpaper, and antique furniture, with modern finishings. It’s an interesting mix of old and new, and Wilton Castle pulls it off seamlessly.
With relatively affordable apartments and suites, this is a fantastic option if you’re wanting more space during your stay. When not reclining on the sofa in your lounge and watching your favorite films on the flat-screen TV, you can wander around the well-manicured grounds and gardens.
This is one of the very best castle hotels in Ireland, for couples or families. But the stunning surroundings, cozy fireplaces, and plush beds make it particularly romantic. There is even a fully equipped kitchen in each unit, so you can cook up your favorite meals with your loved one.
You’ll find this stunner in Enniscorthy, in Wexford County.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $224.00 / $333.00 for a double occupancy room
Kilkea Castle
Subtly elegant and tasteful, this ancient castle is a wonderful option for any high-end traveler. Located on 180 acres of gardens, woodlands, and, best of all – a golf course, this popular Irish castle is a fantastic option for an active vacation.
When not touring County Kildare, take advantage of the many outdoor and indoor activities offered by the hotel. These include horse riding, clay pigeon shooting, archery, falconry, fishing and tennis. You’ll feel like a real royal.
If you want more of the royal treatment, book a day at the on-site spa, or take a dip in the hydrotherapy pool. This castle’s reasonable rates include a wonderful complimentary breakfast.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $193.00 / $230.00 for a double occupancy room
Ballyseede Castle
If you’re looking for castles to stay in Ireland, but you also want to have a beach vacation, this hotel near Kerry is ideal. Just 10 minutes drive from the sea, and the same distance from Kerry Airport, it is easy to get around this area without spending a lot of time traveling.
This well-loved castle has extremely comfortable rooms and shared areas. The traditional Irish cuisine is of excellent quality, and the staff are warm and professional, always adding value to your stay.
Enjoy your afternoon tea with the other guests in one of the ornate drawing rooms. You can also order your complimentary breakfast to your room if you find that you just cannot bear to leave the comfortable bed.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $162.00 / $198.00 for a single occupancy room
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel
A relatively modern castle, Abbeyglen was built in 1832 in the heart of Connemara. This Ireland castle has plenty of luxury amenities, including tennis courts, a beauty and relaxation center, and an expansive library.
The rooms are luxurious and cozy, with plenty of classic charm to make them feel authentic, and modern finishings to make them perfect. The bright rooms are complete with a view of the Twelve Bens mountains and the tree-covered grounds.
The on-site AA Rosette restaurant will ensure your satisfaction, and the complimentary breakfasts start the day on a high note.
Room Rent per Night: Starting from $259.00 / $308.00 for a single occupancy room
Final Thoughts on Ireland Castle Hotels
Ireland has one of the most naturally beautiful landscapes in the world. Rolling hills, towering mountains, and lush green forests can be found throughout the countryside. Staying at one of the imposing or fairy-tale castles Ireland has dotting its land is an incredible way to experience this stunning space.
Whichever castle hotel catches your eye, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience, and are sure to go home feeling like a king or queen. And with all the luxury amenities and activities, you’ll also be recharged and ready to make the most of life.
If you’re sold on the idea of a castle hotel, but Ireland isn’t on the top of your bucket list, check out the castle hotels in Austria. They’ve every bit as magical as Ireland’s.
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