Ireland

Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle is a storybook stronghold on Lough Corrib near Cong, County Mayo, where ivy-clad turrets meet immaculate service. Expect falconry, boating, a serene spa and pool, fine dining, and fireside whiskey. The vibe is romantic, quietly theatrical, and wonderfully warm, with gardens and woodlands for strolling at every turn. 9.9

Adare Manor

Adare Manor is a neo-Gothic marvel in County Limerick, set on a 840-acre estate beside the River Maigue. Interiors feel palatial yet welcoming. Expect a world-class spa, indoor pool, championship golf, falconry, and immaculate dining. The vibe is fairytale-luxe, with impeccable service and countryside relaxation, near Adare village. 9.9

The Merrion

The Merrion is Dublin’s most polished townhouse escape, spanning Georgian buildings beside Government Buildings and a short walk to Trinity. Rooms are timeless in elegance and pristine, with Irish art throughout. Expect a serene spa and pool, an excellent cocktail bar, and refined dining. The vibe is discreet, grown-up, and perfectly placed for museums and dinner reservations. 9.8

Sheen Falls Lodge

Sheen Falls Lodge sits above rushing waterfalls just outside Kenmare, a peaceful base for the Ring of Kerry. Rooms feel classic and comfortable, many with river views. Expect a spa, pool, and strong dining, plus fishing, boating, and guided outdoor pursuits. The vibe is cosy, nature-led, and quietly romantic, especially after rain. 9.6

Park Hotel Kenmare

Park Hotel Kenmare is a refined, family-run retreat at the edge of town, perfectly placed for Killarney and the Ring of Kerry. Rooms feel classic, with soft colours and calm views. Expect a serene spa with pool, excellent dining, and attentive service. The vibe is gracious, quiet, and deeply comforting, especially on slower weekends. 9.6

Anantara The Marker Dublin

Anantara The Marker Dublin is a sleek Docklands base beside the Grand Canal, handy for the Convention Centre and a quick taxi into Temple Bar. Rooms are crisp and contemporary. Expect a rooftop lounge, a serene spa with pool and steam room, plus confident dining. Vibe: modern, calm, quietly buzzy. 9.4

Ballyfin Demesne

Ballyfin Demesne is a restored Irish country house in County Laois, set amid rolling parkland, a lake, and walled gardens. Interiors feel like a private museum, yet service is wonderfully human. Expect fine dining, boating, archery, and a serene spa and pool. The vibe is relaxed, exquisite, and deeply restorative. 9.8

InterContinental Dublin

InterContinental Dublin is a polished, modern sanctuary in Ballsbridge, a leafy pocket with embassies, Herbert Park, and easy access to the city centre. Rooms feel spacious and quietly luxurious. Expect a strong spa with indoor pool, a well-equipped gym, and refined dining and bar spaces. The vibe is calm, business-friendly, and reliably comfortable. 9.4

Glenlo Abbey Hotel

Glenlo Abbey is a lakeside Galway escape in a historic manor, with views over Lough Corrib and the city a short drive away. Rooms mix classic style with contemporary comfort. Expect a cosy bar, afternoon tea, and dining in vintage Pullman carriages. The vibe is romantic, slightly whimsical, and wonderfully relaxed for weekend stays. 9.4

Dromoland Castle

Dromoland Castle is a classic Irish stay in County Clare, close to Shannon Airport and an easy base for the Wild Atlantic Way. Inside, expect rich wood, open fires, and polished service. Amenities include a spa, indoor pool, golf, falconry, and boating. The vibe is traditional, welcoming, and gently grand, best with a whiskey nightcap. 9.8

The Killarney Park

The Killarney Park is a quietly luxurious base right in Killarney, with the National Park and lakes close enough for early walks. Rooms are elegant and calm, with thoughtful Irish touches. Expect a serene spa, indoor pool, and excellent dining and bar options. The vibe is refined, restful, and perfectly placed for Ring of Kerry adventures. 9.8

Druids Glen Hotel &
Golf Resort

Druids Glen Hotel and Golf Resort is a countryside escape in County Wicklow, about an hour from Dublin, wrapped by gardens and two championship courses. Rooms are classic and comfortable. Expect a spa, indoor pool, and hearty dining, plus plenty of walking trails nearby. The vibe is relaxed, golfer-friendly, and pleasantly old-school for weekends away. 9.4

Trump International Golf Links And Hotel Doonbeg Ireland

Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Doonbeg sits on a wild Atlantic stretch in County Clare, where dunes and sea air set the pace. Suites and cottages feel cosy and upscale, with fireplaces and views. Expect championship links golf, a spa, refined dining, and beach walks. Vibe: rugged, indulgent, fantastic landscapes. 9.6

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