When visiting Ireland, it can be fun to stay in a medieval castle hotel. These hotels are spread throughout Ireland and hold a history that can't be found in very many other parts of the world. The castle grounds are often huge and beautiful, so there are a lot of different activities that couples and families can participate in while staying in a gorgeous and accommodating setting.
The Ashford Castle sits on over 350 acres on a private estate. Over 700 years old, the castle has a restaurant on-site and serves cocktails to help guests unwind. Rooms are described as being spacious and elegant. Estate activities include a 9-hole private course, the Ashford Equestrian Centre and fishing. Archery, tennis, falconry, clay target shooting and hunting are also interesting activities that guests enjoy at Ashford Castle. R
Ashford Castle
Cong, Co. Mayo
Ireland: 800 451 351
U.S. (800) 346-7007
www.ashford.ie/index.php
The Ballynagowan Castle was formally known as the Smithstown Castle. Located on the west coast of Ireland, the castle has just four bedrooms and sleeps up to eight people. The castle was built by the last King of Munster and Earl of Thomond, and Inchiquine according to the castle website. The castle was built more than five centuries ago and sits on approximately five acres.
Ballynagowan Castle
Lahinch, Ireland
+44 (0) 1723 367397
www.smithstowncastle.com
Ballynahinch is a 4-star castle hotel that sits in the middle of 450 wooded acres filled with rivers and beautiful scenery. Castle rooms are furnished with four poster beds and there is a restaurant and pub on-site. There are 40 bedrooms for guests to choose from, each bedroom having a private bath and a view of the river and surrounding scenery. There are many golf courses in the area and places to walk. The castle has an interesting history that visitors to the castle enjoy hearing and reading about.
Ballynahinch Castle
Recess, Connemara
Co. Galway
+353 95 31006
www.ballynahinch-castle.com
There are 22 bedrooms available at Ballyseede Castle. Prices start at £99 and go up to £241 (prices current in February, 2010). The castle stands three stories high and guests will find large rooms, fine dining and wine choices. Many enjoy visiting the Library Bar to hear local legend and stories. All rooms have telephones and satellite TV. Golfing, touring, horse riding, fishing, the Tralee Aqua Dome, Town Park, walking, boating and angling are activities visitors may enjoy while visiting the Ballyseed Castle.
Ballyseede Castle
Tralee, County Kerry
Ireland: +353 66 7125799
U.S.: (877) 905-6789
www.ballyseedecastle.com
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Located less than an hour away from the Dublin Airport, the castle is located in the county of Cavan. Cavan County offers a variety of activities for visitors to the area. This castle itself has a history that dates back to 1760.All rooms have coffee/tea makers, telephones and satellite TV. Rooms include a full Irish breakfast. Visitors to the castle can play golf, go horseback riding, fishing, shooting or visit the Craic for some night life.
Cabra Castle
Co. Cavan, Ireland
+353 42 966 7030
www.cabracastle.com
