There's nothing quite like a getaway in the country! Falling asleep to perfect silence and waking to singing birds is an experience quite like no other. Be it a relaxing break from the chaos of your day-to-day or a chance to explore some of the emerald aisle's most exciting country views, we have the perfect destination for you!
1/ The K Club
County Kildare
The K Club is a stylish country resort, tucked away in the Kildare countryside but just on Dublin’s doorstep, firmly anchored in old-school Irish hospitality in a delightfully relaxed and unfussy way. The K Club is an exceptional backdrop to laidback country stays. With an authentic country mansion at its heart and comfortable contemporary wings, the fabulous décor, attentive staff and an impressive range of things to do both indoors and outdoors set the tone for days that can be as chilled or as full as you like, as there are scheduled and bespoke activities for you to dip in and out of, just as suits you. Set in lush countryside, overlooking formal gardens and its own pair of championship golf courses, The K Club has a wide choice of bars and restaurants, handsome drawing rooms and magnificent interiors with elegantly classic furnishings. The 134 spacious bedrooms are each individually designed with great attention to detail, with bathrooms that feature hand-painted murals.
A weekend stay at The K Club will cost from €474 a night or, for the Imperial suite, €4,000 a night.
2/ The Johnstown Estate
County Meath
Discover why The Johnstown Estate on Ireland's Ancient East in Co. Meath is a favourite destination for so many travellers. Set within 120 acres of stunning parkland, the luxurious 4-star resort is a haven of luxury, comfort, relaxation, and great food. Situated just 35 minutes from Dublin, The Estate includes 128 spectacular bedrooms and suites and 40 self-catering luxury lodges. For those with a passion for food, There is a choice of dining experiences, from fine dining at 'Fire & Salt' restaurant to traditional favourites at The Coach House Brasserie, al fresco dining and light bites at the Spa Café. Guests can enjoy lots of luxury amenities, including the award-winning Elemis & Gharieni Spa with a Thermal Suite, Outdoor Rooftop Experience, and 15 treatment rooms, including a Rasul Mud and Mineral Treatment Bath and a Couples Room. There is also a 30,000 m² leisure club with a 20-metre swimming pool, state-of-the-art gym and outdoor hot tub. Bicycles are available to enjoy the Estate parklands and discover the nearby Royal Canal Greenway.
A weekend stay at The Johnstown Estate will cost from €273 a night or, for the Lady Margret suite, €414 a night.
3/ Dromoland Castle
County Clare
Ireland’s most magical address, Dromoland Castle has been welcoming guests since the 16th Century. The ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, this venue has nobility and hospitality in it's DNA. From the imposing baronial façade, to startling interioirs, you’ll find a world of historic grandeur underpinned by the finest modern comforts. With lavish décor, indulgent dining, fabulous views and magnificent bedrooms, this is a place to feel at home. Behind the warm Irish welcome is the belief that every guest is royalty. Stroll the 450-acre estate. Tee off on our world class golf course. Take afternoon tea by a roaring fire. Relax in the intimate spa. Enjoy delicious cuisine. No matter what your preference, at Dromoland Castle there’s no escaping the sense that you are walking in the shadows of kings. The pinnacle of excellence, come in the knowledge that all your expectations will be met.
A weekend stay at Dromoland Castle will cost from €621 a night or, for the suite, €1,200 a night.
4/ Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links
County Dublin
Built upon the original family home of the iconic Jameson Dynasty, Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links is the perfect combination of Irish luxury and history. 134 rooms each with a view either of the award-winning links golf course, the enchanting original Jameson Family gardens, or of course, the sea. The Portmarnock Links, designed by German Championship golfer Bernhard Langer, is paired with stunning hotel amenities; an award-winning spa, relaxation area and well-equipped gym. 2-AA Rosette awarded restaurants and The Jameson bar offer delicious, dining variety. Overlooking the Irish Sea, The Portmarnock Hotel is located between the picturesque villages of Malahide and Howth.
A weekend stay at Portmarnock Hotel & Golf Links will cost from €398 a night or, for the Deluxe suite, €483 a night.
5/ Glenlo Abbey House & Estate
County Galway
Dating back to the 18th Century, the 5 star Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is where old-world charm meets contemporary elegance. Home to the Pullman Restaurant, two former carriages from the Orient Express and each with their own distinct history and style, the River Room Restaurant and Palmers Bar & Kitchen. With a 138-acre lakeside golf estate, golf among other activities is on your doorstep to enjoy. The unique Championship 9 Hole Golf Course is quickly becoming one of the best 9 holes in the country with rolling hills, lakes and fabulous views of Lough Corrib and it is the closest golf course to Galway City. The 21 Bay Driving Range is the ideal place to warm up before a round of golf. From the moment you drive through the magnificent cast-iron gates, the beauty of this enchanting lakeside estate overlooking Lough Corrib will captivate you.
A weekend stay at Gleno Abbey Hotel & Estate will cost from €299 a night or, for the Presidential suite, €1,599 a night.
6/ Park Hotel Kenmare
County Kerry
Dating back to 1897, heritage and luxury are combined at the Park Hotel Kenmare to create a gracious home, that is yours to enjoy. This Victorian landmark, dating from 1897, with its splendid views over the glistening waters of Kenmare Bay, the ever changing light of the Cork and Kerry Mountains, the adjoining 18 hole golf course, garden walks and the Heritage Town of Kenmare is home to one of Ireland’s finest hotels. Tradition, in every sense, is important to the team, as is the fun of today, the devilment of a younger guest, the delight of a couple holding hands and the delivery of true service. It is a rare place where the decadence of the past is married with the modernism of today.
A minimum two night stay at Park Hotel Kenmare will cost from €445 a night or, for the Bowood suite, €770 a night.
7/ The Europe Hotel & Resort
County Kerry
The Europe Hotel & Resort is situated on Killarney’s largest lake, Lough Lein and boasts the most stunning views in Ireland with vistas of the lakes, mountains and gardens. Beautiful contemporary decor evokes a homely feeling and guests are treated to luxurious accommodation overlooking the gardens or surrounding lakes. Guests can also enjoy complimentary indoor tennis and horse riding at the resort or spend the day in the fantastic 50’000 square foot ESPA. An array of dining options are available at The Europe Hotel and Resort which prides itself on locally sourced ingredients for its freshly prepared menus. The Brasserie Bar and Restaurant offers a casual dining option with patio dining as well as indoor seating. With its location on The Ring of Kerry, the hotel is the perfect gateway for exploring Kerry’s iconic natural attractions.
A weekend stay at The Europe Hotel & Resort will cost from €460 a night or, for the Presidential suite, €1,995 a night.
8/ Ashford Castle
County Galway
The magnificent five-star Ashford Castle is set in 350 acres, on the picturesque shores of Lough Corrib. Dating back to 1228, the castle now enters a new chapter in its history, as part of The Red Carnation Hotel Collection, and has been recognised as a prestigious Forbes five-star hotel. With 82 guest rooms, a wealth of activities and thoughtful touches, enjoy acclaimed Irish hospitality on a grand scale. The crown jewel, though, is the spa, which is located in a bronze former conservatory and features a white-and-gold tile mosaic entitled “Tree of Life” next to the indoor pool. Ashford Castle is truly a once-in-a-lifetime luxurious experience. Your royal adventure begins when you enter through the grand stone gates of this remarkable 800-year-old castle.
A minimum two night stay at Ashford Castle will cost from €870 a night or, for the Stateroom, €3,500 a night.
9/ Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort
County Wicklow
At the 5 star Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort, nature and luxury meet to create a memorable escape. Nestled in 360 acres of countryside between the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea, yet only thirty minutes from Dublin, Druids Glen provides a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort features 145 spacious guest rooms and suites, dining options to include Hugo’s Restaurant, the Garden Rooms and Bar, Sycamore Lounge along with a Spa, Health Club and two championship golf courses, Druids Glen and Druids Heath. Experience authentic Irish hospitality and allow the skilled staff to take care of you while you soak up our wonderful surroundings, settle into more relaxed pace of life and enjoy the warm, attentive service from the expert team.
A weekend stay at Druids Glen Hotel & Golf Resort will cost from €175 a night or, for the Executive suite, €430 a night.
- Gráinne