When holidaymakers think of the Republic of Ireland, they no doubt conjure up images of lush landscapes dotted with majestic castles, inviting towns that make a pleasant departure from Dublin’s bustle and a buzzing music, dining and nightlife scene that livens up days spent exploring the nation’s history and outdoors.
An enthralling country with so much to see, do and be part of, it’s no wonder that it has made it to your travel bucket list, and if it hasn’t then, perhaps, we’ll convince you just why it deserves a spot. With a fantastic selection of luxury hotels to relax in, sights to be seen, time to be enjoyed and meals to be devoured, we round up the best of the best across this delightful nation.
Where to stay
You will no doubt wish to ensure that any spare moments are spent in the most luxurious of surroundings and so, when booking your trip, make sure to seek out the finest hotels in the area or areas you are planning to visit. Luxury residences can be found throughout for the ultimate in privacy, but if you’re looking to be pampered then you’ll want to book into a five-star hotel.
Here are some of our favourites.
Ashford Castle, north of Galway, is surrounded by nature in a serene waterside location and boasts a sumptuous spa, elegant interiors and a range of dining, drinking and lounging spaces in its 13th-century setting. Book the Hideaway Cottage for privacy or one of the hotel’s suites for the ultimate in elegance.
Cashel Palace in Co. Tipperary exudes opulence, and this can be seen across the unique rooms, suites, public spaces, dining room and spa. The Georgian mansion is rich in period detail and antiques and the nine impressive suites are the best of the best. A meal at The Bishop’s Buttery is not to be missed as executive chef Stephen Hayes displays his culinary skills exquisitely here.
In and around Dublin, The Westbury, The Shelbourne Autograph Collection, The Westin Dublin, InterContinental Dublin, Carton House, Luttrellstown Castle Resort and The K Club will impress, while there are plenty more plush hotels throughout to luxuriate in.
What to do
From busy bars and clubs, casinos, theatres and music venues to have some fun at by night and the array of natural wonders, historical sites, and important monuments and sights to visit during the day, you can be sure that you’ll be kept busy at all times.
If you enjoy a flutter, then Dublin is a great place to head to when you want to try your luck at the gaming tables and slots. Playland Casino, The Sporting Emporium and Fitzpatrick’s Casino are all great places to start.
If spending your evenings listening to music from little-known to big-name performers is more your style, then this is the place to do it. Small pubs to big venues play host to musicians and singers, and when you’re ready to get your foot tapping or your dancing shoes on, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Dublin has a lively nightlife scene and Kilkenny, Galway and Cork are not to be missed.
You’ll no doubt want to seek out days exploring some of the fantastic scenery Ireland is known for. The beautiful Cliffs of Mohar in County Clare are a popular attraction, and the 14km stretch of sea cliffs reach their highest point of 214 metres. The Ring of Kerry scenic drive; Phoenix Park with Dublin Zoo; Killarney National Park with its lakes, valleys and forested mountains; Scenic coastal driving route, Atlantic Way; Connemara National Park; Torc Waterfall; and Skellig Islands make up some of the stunning natural landscapes to discover.
Culture vultures will want to check out The Little Museum of Dublin, the National Gallery of Ireland, St Patrick’s Cathedral, the Neolithic monument of Newgrange, Kilkenny Castle, Kylemore Abbey, Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle and Gardens, and Dublin Castle, among other popular attractions such as Guinness Storehouse and The English Market.
Where to eat
Fine dining lovers will be in good hands here with a selection of highly rated restaurants to enjoy some top-quality food at. In addition to The Bishop’s Buttery at Cashel Palace, check out Anair Restaurant in Galway, Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud in Dublin, Campagne in Kilkenny, Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen in Dublin, Aimsir in Celbridge, Liath in Blackrock, Ichigo Ichie in Cork, House in Ardmore, dede in Baltimore, Loam in Galway, and Variety Jones, Glovers Alley and Bastible in Dublin.
