5 Star Ireland Castle Tour

The Rock of Cashel, also called St. Patrick’s Rock, is an iconic Irish heritage site in County Tipperary. The landmark features a stunning cluster of medieval buildings including a round tower, Gothic cathedral and Cormac’s Chapel (originally the seat of the Kings of Munster before being granted to the Church in 1101). It’s long-lived history and story make it a major centre of power and religious significance with incredible Celtic art and architecture. Legend says St. Patrick converted the King of Munster here in the 5th century. Another story claims the Rock itself was dislodged from the Devil’s Bit mountain (also in Tipperary) by St. Patrick. 

Castlemartyr Resort is a 5-star luxury destination in County Cork, Ireland. It blends an 18th-century Manor House with 13th-century castle ruins on 220 acres of parkland, offering luxury rooms, residences, a spa, golf, dining, and outdoor activities like kayaking and walking trails. It’s known for its rich history (Templar origins), extensive grounds, and high-end amenities, making it a top spot for relaxation, events, and exploring The South of the country or even Ireland’s ‘Ancient East’. Guests can explore the grounds on foot or bike, kayak on the lake, or use the mapped walking trails. This venue also holds a Michelin Key, indicating a very special stay, and is part of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. 

Cobh (pronounced “Cove”) is a historic port town in County Cork. The village is famous for its maritime heritage (especially as the last port of call for the Titanic), is a major emigration point for Irish Famine victims (Queenstown), and is home to the iconic St. Colman’s Cathedral. Visitors explore its Victorian architecture, colourful “Deck of Cards” houses, the Titanic Experience, Spike Island, and its rich history as Ireland’s main emigration hub. Cobh was the final stop for the RMS Titanic in 1912 before its ill-fated voyage.

Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s most recognisable historic landmarks, rising from woodland and waterways just outside Cork City. The present castle dates to the 15th century and was built by the MacCarthy dynasty, powerful regional rulers whose influence shaped much of Munster. Over centuries, Blarney Castle has become synonymous not only with medieval architecture, but with one of Ireland’s most enduring legends – the Blarney Stone – which is set high into the battlements of the castle. According to tradition, kissing the stone grants the “gift of the gab”, an ability to speak with charm, wit, and persuasion. Surrounding the castle is an extensive estate of gardens, parkland, woodland walks and waterways. Highlights include the Poison Garden, Fern Garden, and the atmospheric Rock Close, where ancient stones and shaded paths add a mythical quality to the grounds.

Killarney National Park in County Kerry, Ireland, is a stunning, vast protected area featuring mountains (McGillycuddy’s Reeks), the famous Lakes of Killarney, ancient woodlands (oak & yew), and waterfalls (like Torc). Its vast acres boast rich history, including Muckross House & Gardens, Ross Castle, and Bronze Age copper mines, offering activities like hiking, cycling, boat trips, and jaunting cars, all within Ireland’s first National Park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

The Ring of Kerry (a scenic loop in Kerry) is one of Ireland’s most celebrated scenic drives, offering visitors a 179-kilometer journey through rugged coastline, rolling hills, charming villages, and historic landmarks. Located in County Kerry, this loop is an iconic exploration of the Iveragh Peninsula and a perfect way to experience Ireland’s natural beauty, culture, and heritage. The route is dotted with quaint villages, including Kenmare, Sneem, and Cahersiveen, where visitors can enjoy artisan shops, traditional music, and local cuisine.

Valentia Island, off County Kerry’s coast, is a historically rich, scenic gem on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. This small island is famous for laying the first transatlantic telegraph cable and its Devonian Tetrapod footprints; accessible by bridge or ferry from Portmagee/Reenard Point. This southwest island is well worth the visit whilst you are exploring the ring of Kerry as it offers stunning views, Valentia Slate quarries and the Skellig Experience Centre which blends ancient history with modern adventure.

Dromoland Castle was the ancestral home of the O’Briens, all the way back to Brian Boru himself, Ireland’s most powerful High King. In the millennium between his time and ours, it has been the backdrop to grand romances, exciting dramas, and unforgettable events in Ireland’s history. With lavish décor, indulgent dining, fabulous views, on-site activities and magnificent bedrooms, this 5-star luxury castle and estate is the perfect place to feel at home during your time in Ireland.

Adare Manor is a stunning Neo-Gothic castle and 5-star luxury resort in Adare, County Limerick. The Manor and its private estate (owned by Ireland’s JP McManus) is known for its opulent restoration, world-class golf, Michelin-starred dining, and extensive estate activities, serving as a grand base for exploring Southwest Ireland. Once the seat of the Earls of Dunraven, it’s now a lavish hotel offering experiences from falconry and spa treatments. Adare Manor will also host the 2027 Ryder Cup, all set within a beautiful 840-acre estate that encapsulates true and authentic Irish luxury.

Arguably one of Ireland’s most famous castles and estates, Ashford Castle is a mainly Victorian and medieval castle outside the village of Cong on the County Mayo–Galway border. The Red Carnation castle has been expanded over the centuries and turned into a five star hotel. It is located on the County Galway side of Lough Corrib and was previously owned by the Guinness family, with origins dating back to the 13th century. In addition to the natural beauty of its grounds, Ashford features immaculately preserved and architecturally astonishing structures, such as the Barn Chapel, Carriage House and the Grand Ballroom.

Connemara National Park offers stunning landscapes of mountains (including the Twelve Bens), bogs, heaths, forests and wildlife (such as mountain ship), with free entry and visitor facilities near Letterfrack. Key attractions include the Diamond Hill walk for panoramic views, historical sites like megalithic tombs, Connemara ponies, and various trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging hikes for experienced trekkers. The park, established in 1980, provides a diverse Irish experience, accessible via its Visitor Centre with amenities like a cafe, playground, and exhibitions.

Kylemore Abbey, nestled in Connemara, Ireland, is a stunning Victorian castle transformed into a Benedictine monastery, renowned for its beautiful Gothic chapel, restored walled garden, and serene lakeside setting, offering a rich history of romance, education, and spirituality under the care of nuns. Originally built as Kylemore Castle by Mitchell Henry as a romantic gesture for his wife, it became home to Benedictine nuns fleeing Belgium during WWI in 1920, who continue to run it as a non-profit attraction, preserving its heritage and supporting their monastic life through visitor revenue. Visitors can explore the Abbey’s period rooms, the vast walled garden, woodland walks, and learn its captivating story of love, loss, and resilience

Clifden,is known as the “Capital of Connemara” and is a picturesque coastal town in County Galway, Ireland. It is the perfect base exploring the rugged Connemara region, offering stunning scenery where mountains meet the Atlantic, and boasting colourful streets filled with traditional pubs, shops, and cafes. Clifden also attracts tourists for its history, lively atmosphere, and proximity to iconic sites like the Sky Road and Kylemore Abbey, all while being a key centre for agriculture – especially Connemara Ponies.

Sky Road near Clifden,  is a famous 11-16km scenic loop on the Wild Atlantic Way, offering stunning panoramic views of Clifden Bay, the Atlantic, islands, and rugged Connemara landscape, featuring both a higher, dramatic upper road and a lower coastal road, ideal for driving or cycling. It’s a short, beautiful drive (30-60 mins) with viewpoints and nearby attractions like Clifden Castle. 

The Gleniff Horseshoe is a stunning 10km glacial valley loop in County Sligo, Ireland, offering spectacular views of the Dartry Mountains (including Benbulben), Donegal Bay, and dramatic cliffs. They are all discoverable by car, bike, or foot. It’s famous for its breath-taking scenery, historical sites (such as the old Barytes Mill), and it links to Irish folklore (particularly Diarmuid & Gráinne’s Cave). The route is best driven clockwise for optimal views, with opportunities for hiking trails like the longer Benwiskin Trail.

Sliabh Liag (Slieve League) cliffs in southwest County Donegal, are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. They tower over 600m above the Atlantic, nearly three times taller than the Cliffs of Moher, and are a key part of the Wild Atlantic Way. Known for their dramatic beauty, Irish heritage, hiking, and pilgrimage routes – like the challenging One Man’s Pass and the more accessible Pilgrim’s Path – they offer breathtaking views of Donegal Bay and beyond, with visitor centres and facilities available including shuttle services in peak season. Their Gaelic name translates to “Mountain of the Grey Flagstones” or “mountain of stone pillars” in Irish.

The Glencolmcille Folk Village in Southwest Donegal, Ireland, is a living-history museum showcasing rural Irish life from the 18th to 20th centuries. It does so through restored thatched cottages, a schoolhouse and a pub-grocer; all furnished with period artifacts. Established by a local priest, Glencolmcille Folk Village offers insights into changing lifestyles, including pre-Famine poverty, post-Famine resilience, and gradual improvements. There are some amenities onsite including a tea room, a craft shop and the village is in close proximity to Glen Bay Beach. Built and managed by locals, it proudly highlights the history of the Irish-speaking Gaeltacht area.

Lough Eske Castle is a stunning 5-star castle hotel near Donegal Town, Ireland. The castle and estate is nestled by Lough Eske and the Blue Stack Mountains, blending historic 19th-century architecture with modern luxury. The property, located on 43 acres of woodlands, features a spa, fine dining, and extensive grounds, offering a luxurious retreat for relaxation, weddings, and exploring County Donegal and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Enniskillen Castle, built by the Gaelic Maguires in 1428, is a strategically vital (and almost 600-year-old) fortress on the River Erne in County Fermanagh, guarding a key Ulster pass. It now houses the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskillings Museum, offering rich history on local culture, military, and the Plantations of Ulster. The caslte offers free entry to its visitor centre and paid entry to the museums, but even the views from outside are wonderful to witness.