Hidden away in 350 acres of ancient woodlands lies Ashford Castle. This medieval castle was built in 1228 by the House of Burke. It was purchased in the mid 1800s by Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness, the brewer, who requested a Victorian redesign of the structure. In 1939 the estate opened as a hotel under Noel Huggard. It rapidly established its reputation as renowned location for country pursuits and hospitality. The hotel’s distinguished guests include Prince Rainier III of Monaco and Princess Grace, Oscar Wilde, John Lennon, US President Ronald Reagan and Robin Williams to mention a few. A major refurbishment took place and the castle once again opened its doors to entertain guests in 2015.
Enjoy your stay in one of the 83 rooms and suites of Ireland’s top ten resorts. For added privacy you can opt for the Hideaway Cottage, which was the former boat house located on the shores of the Lough Corrib with unforgettable lake views especially es you enjoy dinner on the pier. The hotel features numerous dining options from Afternoon Tea to Irish cuisine and many more. Cigar connoisseurs can enjoy a smoke at the Cigar Terrace on the castle rooftop overlooking the Cong River. Ashford Castle is the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors whether you opt for horse riding, fishing, golfing, cycling or falconry. Ashford Castle is after all home of Ireland’s first School of Falconry.