On a lush, wooded estate in the west of Ireland, historic Dromoland Castle beckons A-list travelers for the ultimate Celtic getaway.
On a lushly forested 450-acre estate, Dromoland Castle offers the charms of a richly historic property with modern conveniences.
Each unique Viscount stateroom features plush furnishings, discrete seating and dining areas, and striking views of the estate.
THE SETTING
Just 15 minutes after being picked up by our driver and pulling away from Shannon Airport, we find ourselves passing through the gates of the grandest of Irish estates, easing down a meandering road past immaculately manicured landscaping, a glassy lake, hushed golf greens and centuries-old yew trees. Finally, we see it: the majestic gray limestone of Dromoland Castle (dromoland.ie), which has been standing in this spot since the 16th century and is now one of Ireland’s most distinguished luxury properties.
The Gallery beckons for coffee or a casual meal
THE CASTLE
The great structure’s history greets guests at every turn, from the suits of armor thanking the reception area to the sumptuous art, antiques, hunting trophies and wallcoverings that fill its labyrinthine halls. But make no mistake: Modernity is top of mind at Dromoland. The poshly outfitted spa boasts of-the-moment brands like Dr. Barbara Sturm and OSKIA and offers quartz crystal bed treatments, while rooms blend classic furnishings with modern conveniences. Meanwhile, the impressive dining program shines at the Earl of thomond, where a tasting menu delivers the most delectable of regional delights: small oysters plucked from nearby Galway Bay and served with a bracing lime and coriander; perfectly roasted halibut; local farmhouse cheeses; and desserts like citrus sou e with clementine compote. And be sure to stop by for a postprandial tipple at the Cocktail Bar, where the drinks are world-class and the surroundings—an inimate, octagonal former library decked in riotous red—are deliciously over the top.
Sophisticated elixirs at The Cocktail Bar.
“Ancient though Dromoland Castle is, sharing it with new people and helping them discover its richness never gets old.”–MARK NOLAN, GENERAL MANAGER
The Brian Boru suite, named after Ireland’s only high king
THE ADVENTURES
From fishing and archery to falconry, clay shooting and a championship 18-hole golf course, we could easily fill an action-packed week without leaving the 450-acre estate. Venture off the grounds, though, and we discover that some of the greatest treasures of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way are less than an hour’s drive from Dromoland’s gates. We marvel at the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher, which tower ruggedly over the County Clare coast. We take a guided hike of the rocky, otherworldly Burren, whose incredibly diverse flora and geology fill us with wonder. We visit the scenic village of Doolin, famed for its traditional sessions of Irish music. Next time, we’ll be sure to hop the ferry to the Aran Islands and explore their ancient ruins and majestic natural surroundings.
Afternoon tea is a must
THE TAKEAWAY
Its regal setting and abundance of activities and adventures close at hand make Dromoland Castle an ideal base for exploring the West of Ireland, whether for a quick weekend jaunt or an extended stay. And while it’s one of Ireland’s most historic luxury properties, Dromoland is still upping its game with new offerings like Dromoland Lodge, a recently unveiled five-bedroom private residence on the golf course, plus a soon-to-launch privately connected two-bedroom suite of the Lady Mary O’Brien Room, which merges into the grand Phaerig Stateroom, perfect for families and extended stays. It all combines to make the property a uniquely appealing destination. At its root, says general manager Mark Nolan, what truly sets Dromoland apart—and what we experienced in every interaction during our stay—is the sense of welcome and hospitality offered by the hotel team. “Ancient though Dromoland Castle is,” says Nolan, “sharing it with new people and helping them discover its richness, for the first or 21st time, never gets old. We pride ourselves on making every guest feel like a cherished member of the Dromoland Castle family.”
Photography by: COURTESY OF DROMOLAND CASTLE
