Grey stone towers, sweeping lawns, reflections on a tranquil lake, and deep forests: Ashford Castle rises like a setting imagined for great adventure stories. Behind its medieval walls, the property cultivates a rare refinement, in an atmosphere suspended between heritage and absolute comfort.
Ashford Castle stands in County Mayo, in the west of Ireland, on the shores of Lough Corrib. Dating back to the 13th century, this castle-turned-hotel is among the most iconic addresses in the country. To stay here is to inhabit, for a few hours, an entire chapter of Irish history, within a 140-acre estate of water, gardens, and woodland.
A castle steeped in centuries of history
The origins of Ashford Castle date back to 1228, when an Anglo-Norman fortress was first built on the site. Over the centuries, the building changed hands, expanded, evolved, and gradually acquired the romantic appearance for which it is known today.
The castle was also once home to the famous Guinness family, before becoming a luxury hotel. A major restoration carried out in 2014 and 2015 revived the full splendour of the estate, without erasing its historic soul.
Sleeping in a cinematic setting
The hotel has 83 rooms and suites, each decorated differently. Carved wood panelling, rich fabrics, antique fireplaces, paintings, and carefully selected furnishings… the atmosphere is distinctly cosy, almost theatrical.
Some rooms overlook the lake, others the gardens. A Boathouse Suite perched right by the water takes the experience even further, offering the feeling of being alone with the landscape.
Falconry, spa, and the Irish art of living
But Ashford Castle is not limited to its walls. The estate offers horse riding, archery, lake cruises, golf, fishing, and even boasts a renowned falconry school – a rare privilege in such a setting.
As for the magnificent spa – the only establishment in Ireland to receive a five-star rating from Forbes – it adds a moment of complete wellbeing to the experience. Elegant restaurants, afternoon tea, and warm hospitality complete this destination, where luxury often takes its most precious form: that of time rediscovered.
Ashford Castle
Cong, County Mayo, F31 CA48, Ireland
+353 94 954 6003
ashfordcastle.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCee2Szn_Nk
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