By Dawn Rainbolt
Published: Jun 15, 2023More by Dawn
By Dawn Rainbolt
Published: Jun 15, 2023More by Dawn
County Clare is habitually one of the most popular regions in Ireland to visit and for good reason. The Cliffs of Moher are an irresistible draw for most visitors to Ireland – dramatic and jaw-dropping geological features on a backdrop of swirling Atlantic waves. Further inland, the wild Burren landscapes are reminiscent of a fantasy or sci-fi film.
At the heart of County Clare, the 5 star Dromoland Castle Hotel is a fairy-tale pile of pillars, turrets and crinolines set amongst rolling golf greens and screened by lush woodlands. Expect old-world charm combined with a high level of service, elegance and a secluded location with plenty of activities on-site.
Located in the middle of the county near the charming town of Ennis, Dromoland Castle is an excellent base for those looking to explore the wilds of the west coast of Ireland while retiring in stunning and luxurious surroundings.
Learn more about Dromoland Castle Hotel and why you should include it on your next itinerary below.
Dromoland Castle sits on a 450-acre estate framed by manicured grounds, complete with a golf course, secluded forests and picturesque panoramas.
As you arrive at the immense castle door overlooked by stone turrets, a grand Gothic exterior greets you. Romantically charming, the castle exudes a fairy-tale atmosphere or perhaps a portal to another time. Inside, expect further lavishness from the lounge to the halls, breakfast room and cosy corners.
The rooms themselves are the epitome of comfort. From lakeside look-outs to sumptuous suites, canopied beds to breakfast-in-bed, each room at Dromoland Castle has been thoughtfully designed to meet royal approval. Enjoy luxurious furnishings, exquisite bathrooms, inviting beds, bubble baths, and beautiful views – each room is meticulously designed and furnished for ultimate luxury.
Starting life as a stronghold of the powerful O’Brien clan in the 11th century, a branch of the O’Briens lived and ruled from Dromoland Castle for the following 900 years – a truly impressive feat. Eventually pledging loyalty to the King of England and becoming the Earl of Thomond in the 1600s, his descendant, Red Mary O’Brien, married an officer in Cromwell’s army to save her family and the estate, thus keeping the castle in the family.
The present Dromoland Castle, with its high Gothic-styled grey stone walls, was rebuilt in the early 1800s at colossal expense. Though the land was eventually released to the tenants, the castle survived the revolutionary war intact, preserving the historic building and grandeur that modern-day guests still experience to this day.
Dromoland’s landmark restaurant offers a fine dining experience in the capable hands of head chef David McCann, who has been impressing guests’ palates for over 20 years.
Looking for a more relaxed dining experience? Settle into the cosy fireside sofas in the Gallery for a delicious meal that offers a more casual experience without compromising on quality.
A must-have experience in Ireland, indulge yourself in a sumptuous afternoon tea fit for royalty at Dromoland Castle.
Located just outside the castle, a well-established thermal suite offers a fantastic steam room, sauna and gym. Whether you want to get in those morning laps or want a quick dip, Dromoland’s glittering pool beckons.
We recommend you make your way to Dromoland’s library. Beyond books and exquisite decor, you’ll find a well-stocked cocktail bar where you can try a plethora of drinks made from Ireland’s many spirits, including famed Irish whiskey, as well as its newest beloved liquor: Irish gin. Cocktails not your cup of tea? Plenty of beers are also on tap – the perfect chance to taste a creamy Guinness or perhaps a local Irish craft beer.
Tucked away in a dedicated space within the castle, indulge in Dromoland’s menu of luxurious treatments, including facials, massages and signature packages all fit for royalty—the perfect way to relax after a day exploring Ireland’s great outdoors.
With an 18-hole golf course on the castle’s threshold, this 6,824 yards par 72 championship course combines gentle hills, ancient trees and unexpected water hazards, it is rated one of the finest parkland courses in Ireland, with a superb clubhouse experience and state-of-the-art practice facilities.
Archery is an ancient sport that has been practised for hundreds of years. Set against the backdrop of Dromoland Castle, your clients have the opportunity to receive expert advice and guidance to ensure your arrows are on target.
Enjoy a jaunt around the breathtaking Castle grounds while being regaled about tales of royalty, drama and intrigue from the Castle’s past. Dromoland Castle can arrange alternative riding experiences through green pastures if you’d prefer a more energetic activity.
Falconry is an unmissable part of the Dromoland Castle experience, getting up close and personal with magnificent falcons, hawks and owls against the backdrop of the Castle estate. A favourite of guests staying at Dromoland Castle.
Fishing, or angling as it’s called here, is a popular pastime in Ireland. Lough Dromoland offers some excellent trout and perch fishing. For novice fishers, they offer ghillies to guide and assist in casting, placing bait, and landing a catch.
Clay shooting, a favourite sport of nobility, offers the chance to shoot flying targets in the air. This activity runs year-round and is suitable for all ages and abilities. All that’s needed is calm concentration and a keen eye.
Dromoland Castle Hotel is located in County Clare, about 20 minutes from Shannon Airport and 30 minutes from Limerick City.
A stay at Dromoland Castle is a great addition to any luxury itinerary. It’s the perfect location for those travelling to see the Cliffs of Moher or to explore the Burren.
Iconic and unmissable, the Cliffs of Moher are perhaps Ireland’s most recognisable and visited landmark. While most visitors simply start at the visitor centre, we recommend a guided clifftop walk from Liscanoor or Doolin. While the cliffs can get busy in the centre near the visitor centre, by hiking the cliffs from north to south (or vice versa), you’ll enjoy many of the vistas and paths to yourself.
Wild, weird and wonderful, the Burren may seem barren at first glance. But head out into these rocky lunar-like landscapes and you’ll find it teeming with life. A vibrant natural bouquet of flowers burst from between the crags each spring lasting through summer, with flowers native from the Arctic to the Mediterranean jostling for space, offering one of the most biologically diverse landscapes in Ireland.
If you haven’t had your fill of castles yet, head to Buratty Castle – another O’Brien stronghold like Dromoland – to dive into the history of Ireland. Circled by an impressive folk park, time travel through Ireland’s past as you explore cottages, shops and businesses from another time before exploring the castle itself.
Discover Clare from a new perspective – the water. Head to the shores for a guided kayak experience, paddling along wild shores and ducking into quiet coves and hidden beaches. Spot marine wildlife and whip the binoculars out for a chance to spot the coastal birds.
Inspired by the beauty of the coastal-scapes of the Banshees of Inisheerin? Include island hopping on your client’s itinerary. Depart from the cheerful village of Doolin on a small boat for the Aran Islands. From Doolin, the boat takes you to Inisheer, the smallest of the three islands. Stunning island panoramas await, along with a lighthouse, picturesque beaches and the famed Plassey Shipwreck.
Dromoland Castle is the perfect luxury break in the wilds of Ireland. The hotel offers a combination of old-world Gothic charm and sleek modernity. Great value for money and in a stunning location, enquire now to include Dromoland Castle on your client’s next Irish itinerary.
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