Dromoland Castle Hotel

Ireland
Europe

The Experience

Dromoland is the Irish castle you've always imagined--40 shades of rolling green, romantic turrets and suits of armor. Despite a dash of trite thrown in, Dromoland remains a perennial favorite. Set on 375 gorgeous acres of lush Irish countryside, the 16th-century ancestral seat of the Earl of Thumomd offers history combined with plenty of outdoor activities. Just 10 minutes from Shannon Airport, it's an ideal way to begin or end an Irish getaway and an excellent base from which to explore the west of Ireland.

The Rooms

While perfectly comfortable and spacious, with views of the castle's manicured estate (ask for a lake view), standard rooms can be lacking in authenticity. Suites are more thoughtfully appointed, with quality fabrics and Irish-style antiques. Book in the Club Wing, an addition to the original property, where the tariff includes breakfast buffet, drinks and canapés as well as after-dinner cordials.

The Service

As is increasingly becoming the case in a more hurried Ireland, service can be very attentive and friendly or abrupt. Genial bellhops make an effort to greet you every time you come and go from the hotel, and pro shop folks couldn't be nicer about handling your clubs, but you might not get a fast pickup when you ring down to the front desk with a question.

The Highlights

The Dromoland Castle Golf Academy is affiliated with the hotel's 18-hole course, and lessons are available with top-notch instructors. In 2007, the Dromoland spa opened next to the pool and health clinic, offering several high-end treatments, including the Anne Semonin line and the organic Irish product Voya. Dromoland's strong points are indeed its activities, with trout fishing in a stocked lake, clay pigeon shooting, archery and horseback riding arranged with neighboring stables. After sport, relax with a cup of tea or a hot whiskey by one of the wood-burning fires in the public rooms, or listen to nightly harp music in the dining room while noshing on local salmon and Galway Bay oysters.

 

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