The Enchanted Lands of Ashford Castle
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.