Ireland is an incredible country, with a flourishing culture, magnificent landscape, and rich history. Marvel at the Cliffs of Moher, kiss the Blarney Stone, savor a Guinness at a Dublin pub, drive through breathtaking countryside scenery, and spend the night at a magical castle. Ireland is the ultimate destination for experiencing castle hotels brimming with history and luxury in lavish settings. Guests can enjoy spa days, golf, falconry performances, and archery lessons—a truly royal experience.

Below you will find my top five most stunning castle/manor hotels in Ireland.

1. Clontarf Castle Hotel, Dublin

This elegant 4-star hotel mixes ancient and modern architecture. Unlike most castle hotels in Ireland, Clontarf does not offer special activities such as golf or a spa. The hotel is about a 20-minute drive from Dublin’s city center. I suggest staying here your final night in Dublin, so you can relax in the beautiful setting of a twelfth-century castle. It’s a phenomenal way to end a vacation and be relaxed for your flight home the next day.

2. Lough Eske Castle, Donegal

Lough Eske Castle is an ideal option for those exploring the northwest side of the country and looking for a luxurious stay. This 5-star hotel, dating from the fifteenth century and rebuilt in 1861, offers modern comforts with elegant dining and spa facilities. It’s the perfect place to stay while exploring County Sligo, the Slieve League Cliffs, or Donegal, with lots of shopping and attractions.

3. Ashford Castle, Cong

One of Ireland’s most luxurious retreats, Ashford Castle is a well-known hotel requested by many travelers, so I recommend booking well in advance. Set on the shores of Lough Corrib, its accommodations meet the highest standards. Available activities include falconry, horseback riding, clay shooting, archery, golf, lavish afternoon tea, and so much more. It also boasts a state-of-the-art spa and extraordinary dining options.

If you are looking to have a castle experience on a tighter budget, The Lodge at Ashford is a great option. Situated on the spectacular 350-acre Ashford Estate, it provides more affordable access to the castle, and you will still enjoy elegant accommodations and delicious cuisine.

4. Dromoland Castle, Newmarket-on-Fergus

Dromoland is Ireland’s most magical hotel, within easy reach of the wonderful Wild Atlantic Way, Cliffs of Moher, and the Burren. Set on 450 acres, the castle has welcomed guests since the sixteenth century. Enjoy the ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, a castle with many wonderful amenities. Play a round of golf at the 18-hole championship golf course or enjoy the many other outdoor activities, including archery, fishing, and boating. Relax with luxurious treatments at the castle’s spa or take a stroll along the estate property, admiring the beauty of its magical scenery.

5. Adare Manor, Limerick

I have saved my favorite Irish castle hotel for last. Adare is a manor house located on 840 acres off the River Maigue. This sumptuous modern hotel will astonish and delight you. You will find elegance and comfort in every room, luxuriously decorated in nineteenth-century style. One of the top resorts in Europe, Adare Manor is not a historical castle, but it certainly looks and feels like one. Immerse yourself in its range of fun amenities, which include golf, a spa, fishing, falconry, archery, cycling, clay pigeon shooting, a cinema, whiskey tasting, horseback riding, horse-drawn carriage rides, a fitness center, and a pool. Treat yourself to a memorable experience, unique moments that will take your breath away.

If you are looking for a unique experience in Ireland, stay at a castle hotel. I suggest treating yourself to a stay at one of these stunning properties during the final days of your itinerary, thereby ending your vacation on a high note. Both Dromoland Castle and Adare Manor are conveniently located close to Shannon Airport, while Ashford Castle is about a ninety-minute drive. After a stay at one of these castles, you will feel renewed and relaxed for your trip home.