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There’s no shortage of historic and luxury hotels dotted around the beautiful Irish countryside, but once you arrive at Ashford Castle, it quickly becomes clear that you’ve arrived at a special place. The dreamy property was originally built as a fort in the 12th century, and over the past several centuries, it has been owned by several prominent Irish families; In particular, it was the longtime country home of the Guinnesses.
The property was eventually converted into a hotel, which opened in July 1939, and while it had long been a great retreat, its recent multimillion-dollar renovation turned it into a truly eye-catching, bucket-list-worthy destination. Ashford Castle It became part of the Red Carnation Collection in 2013, and shortly after underwent an impressive $75 million renovation. The hotel It reopened its doors in 2015, revealing the results of an expensive renovation, including renovated rooms, a luxurious spa and a private movie theater, while taking care to preserve the historic nature of the property.
The hotel has hosted quite a few famous faces over the years. Although luxurious accommodation and a funny photogenic background are important factors in determining the best hotels, Ashford Castle does not stop there: the hotel is magical, thanks to the attentive staff and the glorious history in no small part. Speaking of which, anyone lucky enough to stay at the hotel should make sure to ask Robert Bowe, Ashford’s restaurant and wine program manager, about a certain ghost story.
On that note, here’s everything you need to know about Ashford Castle and why it should add to your travel bucket list.
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What is the decor like?
If I bring up the renovation, it’s really because it’s that well done. Ashford Castle’s decor and furnishings manage to incorporate modern touches while paying careful attention to historic details, because let’s face it, when you’re spending a lot of money (rates start at $776 per night), you want comfort and contemporary additions. They are important for that! The interiors are exquisite yet inviting, with oak paneling, velvet curtains and cozy fireplaces with decorative mantels. Each space in the hotel has a distinct, individual flair, but complements the rest of the rooms perfectly, from the elegant sparkle of the George V restaurant to the sophistication of the drawing room.
What is there to do?
Ashford Castle occupies 350 acres on the west coast of Ireland in County Mayo. You can easily spend your entire trip in the property; There is a nine-hole golf course, clay shooting range, fly fishing, archery and horse stables. Ashford Castle is also home to the oldest falconry school in all of Ireland, where you can join a private falconry walk and walk the grounds with an instructor – hang in there in no time. For a less strenuous but truly enjoyable activity, head out on one of the morning Wolfhound Walks, exploring the property with the hotel’s beloved wolves. For a little outdoors, stop by the newly-completed cinema with different movie screenings every week.
What about the rooms?
The historic castle consists of just 83 rooms and suites, all uniquely (and beautifully) decorated with richly draped curtains, textured wallpapers, custom-patterned rugs, and perhaps the softest sheets I’ve ever come across. Suites have a separate living room, and some larger residences also have a private dining area. While all of the rooms have beautiful views of the grounds, I was delighted to have the dreamiest lake vista outside my suite, from a four-poster bed perfect for sleeping beauty.
Let’s talk restaurants.
Ashford Castle is home to no fewer than seven (yes, seven) restaurants, some located within the main castle, others located outside the grounds. Anyone who has ever checked into an independent hotel knows what a treat it is to have a veritable plethora of dining options, only to find that there is one restaurant with the same menu for every single meal. I recommend going to one of the neighborhood restaurants outside of Ashford, if you stick with the number of restaurants on the property, there’s no denying that you’ll be completely satisfied (and never bored).
The crème de la crème, however, is definitely George V’s dining room, built in 1905 in honor of the Prince of Wales, after the future king moved to the Irish Empire. Despite a handful of renovations over the years, the room is still fit for royalty, complete with wood paneling, multiple sparkling chandeliers, gold accents and blue velvet chairs. It’s definitely the most casual of all the dining options, and if you want to treat yourself, consider indulging in the tasting menu, which comes with beautifully paired wines thanks to an amazing sommelier.
For a leaner or more casual experience, try Stanley’s on the property’s lower level, or Cullen’s at the Cottage, a separate building a short walk from the main lobby. And of course, a cocktail or two at the Prince of Wales Bar is non-negotiable. You can relax in the plush leather chairs and sofas while sipping on a custom drink creation. On that note, tasting wine in the cellar (many of which are entered through a hidden door and low-ceilinged corridor) is the perfect end (or beginning) to an evening.
Spa time is critical.
Stepping into the spa at Ashford Castle feels like a complete escape, in no small part due to the contrast in the decor. While most of the Ashford is decorated with antique furniture, decorative tones, deep colorways and all the appropriate antiques you’d expect from a lavishly renovated 800-year-old Irish castle, the spa is light, airy and modern. The spa, which has just completed a multi-million dollar renovation phase, consists of five treatment rooms, a traditional hammam and a soothing stone steam room. No detail is too small; There’s even eucalyptus in the steam room to help with breathing and circulation.
However, it is this spa pool that makes the spa stand out from the rest. It’s a quiet space, soothing and calming, with beautiful seashell chandeliers and glass doors, but also embracing the history of the historic estate, with a “Tree of Life” mural that covers the entire length of the wall, a nod to Irish Celtic mythology. Pool.
Yes, you have to leave the hotel—at least for a few hours.
Now that you know all that Ashford has to offer without leaving the property, you may be wondering why you would want to leave the property during your stay, which to be fair is a thought that certainly crossed my mind. But the amazing landscape and culture that surrounds it is too amazing to pass up if you’re in the area. Ashford Castle recently launched a “Meet the Makers” program of carefully curated itineraries tailored to individual guest experiences, so you can immerse yourself in the community’s local culture. Ashford has 37 different experience partners so far, ranging from food and drink to craft and dance, including workshops, tastings and more, most of which take place in the homes or workplaces of local artisans. The partnerships make sense, and show Ashford Castle’s respect for their neighbors and the local community. It will take your Irish experience to another level, and is already proven to be the perfect addition to a dream stay.
*The stay at Ashford Castle was courtesy of the hotel. The views and opinions expressed are those of the reporter.
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