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ASHFORD CASTLE
Fifty minutes in a helicopter will take you from Dublin to Ashford Castle, a stunning piece of medieval history and one of Ireland’s most blissful rural retreats.
On the shores of Lough Corrib in the western county of Mayo, this majestic residence has stood at this spot for nearly 800 years, was once home to the Guinness family and now thrives as a luxury hotel honored by The Leading Hotels of the World. Founded by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family in 1228, the estate totals 350 acres of landscaped gardens, lakes and woodland, with the fish-rich River Cong running through its heart and gorse-flecked mountains beyond. Approaching the castle by helicopter gives you the feeling you’ve hit on something pretty special. Touching down on the pristine lawn, you’ll be handed a cold glass of champagne and a choice of five-star indulgence, country pursuits or a bit of both. The adventurous can go fishing on the river or lake—Lough Corrib is one of Europe’s best salmon and brown trout fisheries—or try their hand at falconry, horse riding, archery or clay pigeon shooting. Swap tales of elusive fish back at the hotel spa, before a gourmet meal in the regal dining rooms. When you finally put your head down for the night, you’ll be in the same suite once enjoyed by King George V, Ronald Reagan and a host of other household names. This is aristocratic Ireland at its very best.
Niall Rochford, General Manager
+353 94 954 6003
Cong, County Mayo
THE LODGE AT DOONBEG GOLF CLUB
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Take a championship golf course designed by Greg Norman, a hotel recognized by Small Luxury Hotels of the World and a stretch of the most heart-melting coastline in Ireland, and you’ve got the stuff of elite dreams.
Just a 45-minute helicopter ride from Dublin, the village of Doonbeg is a hidden gem on the unspoiled west coast, built around a 16th century castle and surrounded by enchanting Celtic relics. The 18-hole golf course is Greg Norman’s only design in the British Isles and frequently appears in the top rankings of the best courses worldwide. An astonishing piece of links land, the crescent-shaped Doughmore Bay undulates for a mile and a half, accommodating the traditional out-and-back course beautifully. Non-golfers can explore the landscape on horseback, go surfing or simply relax in the fantastic Lodge spa. The immaculate hotel suites combine country house elegance with modern amenities, and the fine dining is exceptional.
Joe Russell, General Manager
+353 65 905 5600
The Lodge at Doonbeg, Doonbeg, County Clare
