The West Coast of Ireland is a magical coastline that breathes life into an already-enchanted land. The sprays from the Atlantic infuse the emerald-green hills with mystery and majesty.
Not far off the coast, you’ll find an 800-year-old castle that’s been restored in such a way, you’ll wonder if the Celtic gods had a hand in it. You can liken a visit to Ashford Castle to cracking open the pages of an ancient fairy tale and leaping feet first into the pages.
Situated on 350 acres of land beside Lough Corrib, or Lake Corrib, you have all the elements: a stone bridge as an access point and sparkling gates to welcome you home – even if only for a trio of days. Let’s take a stroll through this stately castle as we dip back in time.
The Staterooms and Suites
For such a sprawling structure, there are only 83 guest rooms and suites, as well as an on-site cottage known as The Boathouse. We’ll get to that enchanted cottage in a moment!
As for the rooms and suites, they’re a delicate tapestry that weaves the castle’s original features into every modern luxury. The colorful display of tapestries, silk-lined walls, and Egyptian linens create a color explosion that belongs in the National Gallery of Ireland.
And, while a lot of the furnishings are carefully sourced antiques, there’s nothing old or stuffy about them. Somehow, the designers managed to pair pieces that whisper of a bygone era with modern-day chandeliers – making you wonder whose mind this decor sprung from.
The Boathouse
Tucked away into a horseshoe-shaped grove of trees, you’ll find The Boathouse if you’ve been lucky enough to secure the keys and cross the gates. You don’t need much of an imagination to wonder what a morning would look like with a teacup and saucer in hand as you watch the mists rise off the lake.
Its stone facade and cathedral-shaped door invite you to come in for the type of respite and care that only exists when crossing heaven’s gates. As you float across the timber parquet floors, your mind will battle to decide if it should dazzle over the bespoke Murano glass chandelier or plush Egyptian linens.
When you arrive at the entryway to the bathroom, prepare to melt. The marble-lined walls meld seamlessly into a bathtub big enough for two where champagne flutes are never out of reach.
Although dinner is only a stone’s throw away in the castle – and a lovely walk, indeed – you also have the option to dine à deux or al fresco within the walls of your sanctuary. With private gardens and a terrace that overlooks the lapping Lough Corrib, that’s certainly an option. But let’s head inside the castle walls again for a look at those dining options.
A Delicious Affair
When you first arrive, you might want to set your sights on Afternoon Tea in the Connaught Room. Keep an eye out for the original silver tea set that’s carefully displayed – a present to the former Lord and Lady Ardilaun in 1896.
Overlooking the Lake, you’ll be served a wonderful selection of savories, sweet treats, and scones. While their loose-leaf tea selection is as fresh as it comes, you’ll also have the option of turning this gorgeous affair into a Champagne Afternoon Tea.
Speaking of which, if you didn’t have time to make a reservation, your senses will be equally sensationalized if you stop by The Prince of Wales Bar. Named after the Prince who visited the bar in 1905 and later ascended to the throne as George V, every craft cocktail and brandy seems elevated when paired with the fine wood paneling, opulent fabrics, and a roaring fireplace.
Since you are royalty when you stay here, we must move on to the George V Dining Room. Their sommelier selects the finest wines which are poured into Waterford crystal glasses that smile and wink at you before you take your first sip.
Like everything else amidst the castle grounds, their plated meals are art in their own right. Whether you sample their tender signature beef, carved tableside, or a fresh catch sourced from local Irish waters, the sauces and side dishes are creations that cannot be replicated. And, if you thought Afternoon Tea was a delight, wait ‘til you try their delicious array of petit fours for dessert.
Experiences and Activities
Remember those 350 acres? Boy, are they put to good use. Their menu of activities includes traditional boating, falconry, horseback riding, and more – that’s only scratching the surface. With two dedicated Activity Coordinators, Michael and Fiona, the castle’s elegant and friendly staff will be delighted to make all your dreams come true. That includes a picnic on Chef’s Island, which can only be reached by a handcrafted wooden boat.
Other experiences include a fishing expedition on Lough Corrib with their Ghillie, Frank Costello. Or, to cover more ground around the lake, you can rent a bike for the afternoon. Then, there’s archery, clay shooting, tennis, golf, and guided walks. Best of all, one of your companions on that guided walk is likely to be the same Irish wolfhound who greeted you when you crossed through heaven’s gates.
If you have an interest in art, you can enroll in a painting class. If you have a desire to unwind, you can sink into their award-winning spa. If you want to test your nose, you can also book a wine tasting with resident Sommelier Paul Fogarty, accompanied by a five-course meal with Chef Liam Finnegan and Pâtissier Paula Stekelum. You probably get the picture. This is elevated decadence on a silver platter, whether you spend your day getting lost in the forests or gliding smoothly across the lake.
The Surrounding Area
As you can see, you don’t even need to leave the property to experience the warmest of Irish welcomes. But, since you’re near the West Coast, there’s plenty to explore if you have a car or driver.
The first stop you might like to make is the nearby village, Cong. If you’ve ever enjoyed John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara in The Quiet Man, you’ll know why. The original pub where Sean confronted Danaher still stands tall and proud, Pat Cohan’s Gastro Pub. Be sure to stop in for a pint and maybe even a cup of soup as you stroll through the village.
Then, you can make your way to any number of West Coast delights, particularly along the Wild Atlantic Way. The options are endless, so it’s pretty handy that you have a first-class concierge at the hotel who will be more than happy to help you tailor your dreams in an orderly fashion.
Within reach, you have Galway City, The Burren, and possibly even the village of Doolin, depending on how much time you have. As for Galway City, you’ll want to head straight for Quay Street, the pedestrian-only lane line with lively pubs, gift shops, cafes, and more.
When five o’clock hits, the live music soars through the air and spills onto the streets. The trouble is, it’s a long and windy road home in the dark, so you won’t want to push your luck and stay out too late.
The Burren is a magical oasis where wildflowers are sturdy enough to spring to life through limestone and withstand the fierce winds of the Atlantic. It’s an easy place to just turn off the GPS and get lost. You’ll find Poulanbrone Dolmen, a Neolithic tomb with estimated dates back to 4200 BC. When you’re ready to turn the GPS back on, plug in Newtown Castle, a 16th-century tower house that you can peek your head inside.
The village of Doolin is the gateway to the ever-famous Cliffs of Moher. It’s a colorful little gemstone that hosts some of the finest musicians from around the country. A visit to Gus O’Connor’s, Fitz’s, McGann’s, or McDermott’s will show you what we mean. But, again, that’s a two-hour drive from your heavenly estate, so we’ll leave that there for a post-palace getaway.
Whatever Your Heart Desires
A visit to Ashford Castle proves that you can have whatever your heart desires. Whether you float to sleep amidst their cotton sheets or book a day trip for some Afternoon Tea, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
As you can see, our love for the Emerald Isle is real. Come visit our host of destination guides that will help you explore the rest of these fabled lands. And, until we meet again, may the road rise up to meet you and the wind be always at your back.