From the Wild Atlantic Way to the streets of Dublin, Ireland is bedecked with a string of historic hotels, all sparkling with native charm
Ireland is as renowned for the warmth of its hospitality as for the beauty of its landscapes, and its five-star hotels deliver magnificently on both counts. Many are privately owned, and run by loyal staff who are as fiercely proud of their hotel’s history and setting as they are delighted to share their knowledge with guests — preferably over a whiskey by a roaring fire. And well they might be proud, for the houses of Ireland are fabulous, and their settings world-class, especially along the Wild Atlantic Way, which takes in the Unesco-protected Burren and Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. A full range of country-house pursuits, from falconry to clay-pigeon shooting, fishing to horse riding, comes more or less as standard as, often, do fine dining and a spa — and in many cases, staff are only too happy to tailor activities and menus to children.
1. Lough Eske Castle, Donegal Town, County Donegal
Best for lakeside romance
This Elizabethan-style castle hotel is splendidly located on the shores of Lough Eske, with the rugged Blue Stack Mountains as backdrop. Built in 1861, it is now owned by Pat Doherty of Harcourt Developments (the company behind Belfast’s Titanic Quarter) and has 97 rooms and suites, as well as a smart contemporary bar adorned with images by the famous Titanic photographer, Father Browne. There’s also an AA-Rosette dining room opening on to a parterre, and a Lake Lodge popular with wedding couples. Donegal Town is ten minutes away by car.
Spa Y
Pool Y
Price ££
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