Experience Ireland like the stars
Experience Ireland like the stars
Ballyfin Demesne, County Laois
When it comes to extravagant stays in Ireland, Kim Kardashian and Kanye West found just the place for their honeymoon. Winner of multiple awards, including the number two spot on Travel + Leisure's World's Top 100 Hotels list, Ballyfin Demesne is the epitome of luxury. Sitting at foot of the Slieve Bloom mountains in County Laois, you’re right at the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East. While you're here, explore the clifftop ruin of the Rock of Dunamase, traverse the house and grounds of Emo Court or take a short drive to Tullamore in County Offaly and enjoy a tour (and a tipple) at the Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre.
Kelly's Cellars, Belfast
Winter came to Belfast when the cast of HBO’s hit TV series Game of Thrones® took a break from filming in Northern Ireland to enjoy a few drinks at Kelly’s Cellars. The Mother of Dragons (Emilia Clarke) was joined by Jon Snow (Kit Harington), Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) and a few others. With its whitewashed walls, open fire and rustic feel that reflects its long history, Kelly's could almost pass for a tavern from the TV show itself. Experience it for yourself and take in the infectious rhythm of a traditional music session, right in the heart of the bustling city of Belfast.
Ashford Castle, County Mayo
Back in 1952, film legend John Wayne shot The Quiet Man in the quaint village of Cong in County Mayo, and the rest, as they say, is history. The village retains much of its charm, even almost 70 years later, and is home to The Quiet Man Museum, where you can experience Cong just as it was in the movie. Stay where the stars got their beauty sleep, at the luxurious Ashford Castle – a five-star hotel that has welcomed the likes of John Lennon, Ronald Reagan and, of course, Wayne’s Irish co-star, Maureen O’Hara.
County Donegal
Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick are more than a little fond of Ireland. So much so, the couple bought a holiday home in Kilcar, County Donegal. At the end of one visit, Sarah Jessica decided to pen a heartfelt "Ode to Ireland" on Instagram, channelling her inner Carrie Bradshaw from the Sex and the City TV series. With breathtakingly beautiful sights like Slieve League, Malin Head and Glenveagh National Park on their doorstep, it's fair to say that inspiration comes easily along this stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way!
Glendalough, County Wicklow
For acclaimed actor Daniel Day-Lewis, Hollywood glamour, celebrity and million-dollar contracts contrast quite sharply with life amongst the rolling hills and heather-flecked mountains of Ireland’s County Wicklow. For decades, Day-Lewis has resided in a Georgian house outside the village of Annamoe, where the wild and secluded countryside suits his private lifestyle. Wicklow is known as the “Garden of Ireland” and it’s plain to see why the Oscar-winner calls this county home! Nearby beauty spots include the monastic marvel of Glendalough, Powerscourt House and Gardens and the Wicklow Mountains.
Waterville, County Kerry
Waterville was a favourite holiday spot of film star Charlie Chaplin, and the County Kerry village celebrates his memory every August with the Chaplin Film Festival. His favourite place to stay was the Butler Arms Hotel, where he received a warm welcome year after year. Together with his wife and children, the family enjoyed fishing, horse riding and swimming in beauty spots along this stretch of the Wild Atlantic Way. And the locals loved him in return, so much so, they erected a bronze statue of the man himself! Follow in his footsteps with a tour of the stunning Ring of Kerry, while Star Wars fans may want to take a peek at Skellig Michael– a prime filming location in episodes VII and VIII.