Ireland is famous for its castles. You’ll find everything from ancient, crumbling ruins to castles that have been transformed into luxurious hotels. If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in one, the Emerald Isle is a great place to do it. There is a wide range of options to choose from. The best castle stays include some that are relatively affordable and others that are truly honeymoon-worthy for the chance to live like a king and queen.
I’ve stayed at three of the most highly recommended castles in Ireland. Dromoland is the most luxurious, while Abbeyglen is a great mid-range option. Ross might be the most unique, but there are others to consider as well.
Dromoland Castle Hotel, Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare
Dromoland is known as the “hotel of dreams.” Dating back to the 5th century, it opened its doors as a hotel in 1963. The castle is the ancestral home of one of the few families of true Irish royalty. They’re direct descendants of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland from 1002 to 1014. The castle remained in ancestral ownership of the King until 1962. That’s when American industrialist Mr. Bernard McDonough purchased the estate and began renovations.
Today, it offers luxurious accommodations that are popular with honeymooners and others seeking an upscale experience. The façade and towers, added in the 1830s, are reminiscent of knights and dragoons, while rooms feature lavish touches throughout. There is a variety of outstanding onsite dining options along with a golf course, spa, and award-winning falconry school. Activities like horse riding, fishing, clay shooting, and archery can also be enjoyed.
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, Clifden, County Galway
While Dromoland is truly unforgettable, one of my favorite places to stay is Abbeyglen Castle Hotel in Clifden. Tucked among the forested hills of Connemara with a backdrop of the stunning Twelve Ben Mountain Range, it offers affordable luxury.
Your stay begins with a welcome champagne reception that includes a fun history lesson on the castle and a little trivia competition. The best rooms have four-poster beds, fireplaces, and Jacuzzis. While the town of Clifden hosts many fabulous pubs and restaurants, you won’t want to miss the chance to dine at the award-winning eatery on-site with a menu featuring local seafood and Connemara lamb. The piano bar promises a fun evening of music afterward.
Ross Castle, County Meath
Ross Castle offers a very authentic medieval experience. This isn’t the same castle that’s in County Killarney that some get it confused with. It sits on the shores of Lough Sheelin in County Meath, about 60 miles northwest of Dublin. A stay in one of the tower rooms of this castle built in 1563 is something you’ll never forget. Of course, it may not be ideal for actually sleeping. Ranked on Lonely Planet’s Top 10 list of the world’s “lesser-known haunted places,” guests have been known to hear voices when everyone seems to be asleep, or the sound of doors shutting on their own. Some have even felt the presence of a spirit at the edge of their bed while trying to get some shuteye.
I stayed here, alone, in the top tower room on the night before Halloween back in 2013. When the heavy door opened on its own, I decided to leave the lights on. I didn’t sleep much at all, but it was certainly something I’ll never forget. The property has changed hands since and it’s said to have been spruced up quite a bit. It can now be booked for exclusive use with a minimum two-night stay. A variety of more affordable options are available on-site, including the adjacent Castle Cottage.
Other Irish Castle Hotels to Consider
Although I’ve yet to check them off my list, there are many other well-reviewed castle hotels in Ireland.
- Kinnity Castle Hotel, Birr – a medieval castle/hotel in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains offering 4-star accommodations and spectacular views.
- Clontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin – a luxurious castle/hotel dating back to the 12th century that’s just minutes from the heart of Dublin.
- Ashford Castle, Cong – a 13th-century castle on a 350-acre estate with a lake offering 5-star accommodation and numerous activity options, including horse riding, lake cruising, fishing, golf, and archery.
- Lough Eske Castle, Donegal – A lakeside retreat with an infinity pool and a spa set in a Victorian walled glass house.
- Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort, Waterford – A 16th-century castle on a private island near Waterford city.
For more help in planning your trip to Ireland, check out When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland, Small Towns in Ireland You Shouldn’t Miss, or my Ireland travel guide on Amazon.
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