A lot of travellers in the know prefer country hotels. That’s because country hotels offer a more intimate experience, and as their name suggests – the countryside setting is also something to cherish. That’s certainly true for Irish country hotels – they are big on location, a personalised experience, and also the fact that their properties are very unique.
So if you had to experience the comforts, luxury and beautiful settings of Irish country hotels, where would you go? Think stunning private parklands, oak staircases, ornate fireplaces and properties that are steeped in history. Already dreaming?
We’ll help turn your dream into reality. Here is a list to get you started, and we must warn you. Once you experience the sheer beauty and luxury of an Irish country hotel, you will expect nothing less on your next holiday!
Lyrath Estate – Kilkenny
Lyrath Estate is a five-star hotel that boasts gorgeous grounds spread over 170 acres of the Irish countryside. You have picturesque lakes, historic gardens and emerald woodlands.
But that’s not all. This Irish country hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, Oasis Spa with an indoor infinity pool, a leisure centre and 2 award-winning restaurants. Free WiFi is available throughout.
Guests can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep at Lyrath Estate as rooms are soundproof and have blackout curtains. Each room includes a 43-inch flat-screen TV and overlooks the estate.
The Leisure Centre boasts a 17 m swimming pool, a gym, a steam room and a jacuzzi with a smaller splash pool for younger children. Oasis Spa offers a range of treatments, and pre-booking of appointments is essential.
Contemporary Irish cuisine is on the menu at Yew Restaurant which uses locally sourced ingredients while Tupper’s is a traditional Irish bar which also serves bar food. The Grill & Bar features an open kitchen, cocktail bar and panoramic views. It is located on the mezzanine level and features dishes such as Tomahawk steak and lobster.
Truly a world within itself, isn’t it?
Find a booking link here.
Ballyseede Castle – Tralee
Who doesn’t dream of staying in a castle? Think four-poster beds, ornate marble fireplaces, elegant drawing rooms, and a property that allows you to step back in time.
Ballyseede Castle is an Irish country hotel that provides elegant accommodation, fine dining with traditional Irish cuisine, and rooms that tell a story. Add to it the picturesque natural setting, and you will have an unforgettable holiday.
If this sets your heart aflutter, find a booking link here.
Cabra Castle Hotel – Cavan
Now this is one Irish country hotel experience that you are unlikely to forget. It may well turn out to be the best holiday you ever had. Castles, with their nooks and crannies and ancient histories, are magical places. Just tailor-made for exploring.
You will find yourself wandering through the magnificent reception rooms, finding a quiet corner or fireside to relax with a book, or just enjoying the atmosphere in one of the best-known castle hotels in Ireland. This hotel has such an old-world charm that it makes you forget the worries and hurried pace of modern life.
Here’s a booking link for you to plan your next Irish country experience holiday.
Harvey’s Point – Donegal
You are certain to fall for its large and luxurious rooms and the spectacular views of the lake and the mountains. Perhaps you would never like to leave this gorgeous Irish country hotel because the award-winning cuisine has made your day. Find yourself in this magical location amid the Bluestack Mountains, on the edge of Lough Eske and you can have both – a relaxed as well as a romantic time.
If you find yourself looking up your diary, and can’t wait to head to Donegal, here is a booking link.
Dromoland Castle – Newmarket on Fergus
This should be on your list of some of the best Irish country house hotels to stay at. Imagine taking a stroll in its 450-acre estate. Teeing off on their world class golf course.
Or dressed in a pretty gown and having your afternoon tea by a roaring fire. No matter what your preference, at Dromoland Castle there’s no escaping the sense that you are walking in the shadows of kings. This is because Dromoland Castle has been welcoming guests since the 16th century. It’s the ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, whose lineage dates back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, one of the last High Kings of Ireland.
Situated in Newmarket on Fergus, 3.1 km from Dromoland Castle, Dromoland Castle features accommodation with a fitness centre, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. Featuring a restaurant, the property also has a bar, as well as an indoor pool and a sauna. The accommodation provides room service and a 24-hour front desk for guests.
Here’s a quick link for you to book this gorgeous Irish country house hotel.
Let us know if you liked our suggestions. Trust us, there’s nothing quite like Irish hospitality and the privilege of experiencing it in some of the best Irish country hotels.
