When it comes to delighting in the finer things in life, Ireland makes it oh-so easy. All across the island, lavish retreats nestle in acres of parkland, perch on oceanside cliffs and sit gracefully amid twinkling city lights. You just have to know where to look…
From world-class cuisine to world-famous hospitality, you’ll find the people here take great pride in making you feel like you’ve always belonged. So, whether your idea of sophisticated bliss is a waterside spa such as Galgorm Spa and Golf Resort in County Antrim; timeless elegance at the heart of the city in The Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin or The Merchant Hotel in Belfast; Michelin-star dining at the likes of Mount Juliet Estate in County Kilkenny or The Merrion Hotel in Dublin; or 18 holes with a PGA pro at a resort such as Powerscourt Hotel in County Wicklow, Ireland has five stars with your name on them.
Something for everyone
For every special occasion, there’s a different flavour of luxury accommodation in Ireland. While some people dream of sleeping in tree-covered darkness beneath the stars at the Finn Lough Bubble Domes in County Fermanagh, others will love nothing more than a seaside slumber beside a towering lighthouse, such as St John's Point in County Down. Then, of course, there’s the effortless attraction of a classic 5-star hotel: like the Park Hotel Kenmare on the breathtaking Ring of Kerry; iconic Ashford Castle, former home of the Guinness family; or the Cliff House Hotel in County Waterford, north star of the true gourmet.
Of course, nothing can beat staying in your own stately home, where your every wish is catered for while you relax in the unique charm of the island’s historical buildings. Imagine waking up with your family in the exclusive privacy of Lismore Castle; or sinking into the splendour of Crom Castle as the private – and only – guests of the 7th Earl of Erne
Adare Manor, County Limerick
Spend your time wisely
Living like royalty goes far beyond your bed and breakfast—and whatever the season, Ireland’s finest destinations tailor their recreational recommendations to suit. For outdoorsy types, somewhere like Ballyfin Demesne, Adare Manor or Dromoland Castle are the places to be, with falconry, horse riding, shooting, archery and fishing livening up the grounds.
Meanwhile, experts across the island offer a range of exclusive private tours: from whiskey and smoked salmon tasting with Whiskey Island and Ummera Smokehouse in County Cork to personal shopping experiences at the exclusive Brown Thomas department store in Dublin and bespoke guided tours of Belfast with Exclusive NI Tours.
And if you're wondering how to get coast to coast while carting your clubs between the golf course and your private art and architecture tour with Dublin Decoded? Simply book a private driver with Emerald VIP Services to take you anywhere you want on the island so you can sit back and relax.
Cashel Palace Hotel, County Tipperary