One of Ireland's finest hotels, Dromoland Castle is simply stunning, and offers you the chance to live like royalty while your every whim is catered to. Originally constructed in around 1550 and re-built in Gothic Revival style in 1835, Dromoland Castle was once the seat of the O’Brien clan who can trace their lineage back to Brian Boru, the last great High King of Ireland. Dromoland Castle is set within a fabulous private estate outside Newmarket-on-Fergus in County Clare, conveniently close to both Shannon Airport and some of the West of Ireland’s most magnificent natural attractions.
Blending old-world elegance and uncommon comfort, Dromoland offers the utmost in luxury, with a complete range of facilities, activities and services. Reminders of Dromoland's rich history can be found throughout the castle, from its priceless antiques and carvings to original fine artwork and damask tapestries.
Each of the 99 superbly appointed rooms have been individually decorated with meticulous detail, including Louis XV furnishings, floral fabrics and eighteenth-century botanical drawings, and all have magical views over either the sixteenth-century stone courtyard, a herb garden or across the wooded demesne down to the lake.
As you might expect, service at Dromoland is absolutely flawless, and the dining is similarly top notch. The award-winning signature restaurant, the Earl of Thomond, is one of Ireland’s finest, and head chef David McCann serves up fabulous local seafood and meat in lavish surroundings while a harpist soothingly plucks the strings. For something less formal, head to the Fig Tree and enjoy lighter dishes in its country club atmosphere. The candlelit library with its gently burning log fire is an inviting place for an after-dinner drink.
As a base for exploring the West of Ireland, Dromoland is ideally located, close to the geological wonders of the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher, and the cities of Galway and Limerick are both within easy striking distance. But there are so many activities available on the estate that you may well be tempted not to leave. Sporting pursuits range from fishing, horse riding and archery and clay pigeon shooting to an 18-hole golf course and academy as well as tennis and cycling.
Children are well catered for, too, with a kids’ club available during the summer months and over vacations, and special children’s menus and milk and cookies offered. One of the most exciting and memorable experiences available at Dromoland Castle is the chance to learn about the ancient art of falconry, an activity that will bring you fittingly closer to the pursuits of the noble High Kings of Ireland.
