Dromoland Castle in County Clare
Newmarket-on-Fergus IRE. Majestically set on the shores of Lough Dromoland, the world renowned Dromoland Castle Resort is surrounded by 410 acres of breathtaking scenery and a championship golf course.
Built in the 16th Century it was the ancestral home of the O’Brien’s, Barons of Inchiquin, and one of the few native Gaelic families of royal blood and direct descendants of Brian Boru.
Lavish Interiors, an historic setting, and gourmet dining complete the deluxe accommodations of the Castle’s 99 spacious guest rooms, while Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club, The Spa at Dromoland, and a range of classic sporting pursuits offer grand relaxation. Together with the warmest of Irish welcomes and impeccable, these attributes render Dromoland Castle the ultimate in Irish vacation destinations.
The Shannon region is among the most beautiful in all of Ireland, offering experiences for travelers of every inclination. To highlight just a few, all easily accessible from the Castle:
Shannon International airport is truly a wonder. A five hour flight from the U.S. and a six mile drive to the Castle the airport is efficient and convenient.
The nearby cities of Ennis, Limerick and Galway are all excellent places to begin.
The smallest Ennis has a history closely entwined with Drooled; the O’Brien’s left their seat of power in 
Limerick during the twelfth century to build a royal residence in Ennis and, later extensive church grounds subsequently to followers of St. Francis. Today this small, fun, and friendly city welcomes guests to its narrow streets, quaint shops, traditional Irish music festivals, and surprisingly good restaurants.
Limerick city, now a bustling urban center, dates back to the Viking settlement in 812.
In addition to its rich history Limerick boasts scenic river vistas, shopping galore, sophisticated dining, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Artsy and prosperous, Galway city is known for its arts, literature, jazz and oyster festivals, among others, as well as its casual but chic dining and boutiques. Galway’s history dates back to 1124. Nicknamed “Ireland’s Cultural heart” it is renowned for its urban energy, festivals, celebrations, and events, many to please Dromoland Castle visitors.
Having enjoyed some of Ireland’s finest cultural and entertainment venues, visitors may be ready to explore Shannon region’s wilder side. One can encounter some of the most splendid coastal scenery in the world (with more than a few traditional Irish pubs along the way).
The Burren is a remarkable limestone plateau that spans 100 square miles. Its majestic grey mountains and rolling green hills have over 2,500 sites of pre-historic tombs and monuments, the extraordinary fauna and flora along the way will delight all nature enthusiasts.
The Burren trails down to the Atlantic ocean where the Cliffs of Moher ascend up to 1220 feet above the sea creating an awe-inspiring five miles of scenery between O’Brien’s Tower and Hag’s Head.
Those keen on world-class golfing will thoroughly enjoy Dromoland Castle’s award winning parkland course. Guests seeking to explore more of western and southern Ireland’s playing challenges will find other unforgettable courses near at hand. These include the unique in-land links style experience at Dromoland’s sister property, Castle Martyr Resort in county Cork.
The younger set will find entertainments to their tastes as well; these include Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, which features the most authentic medieval fortress with a setting fornightly banquets, costumed entertainers, fine food and wine, and honey mead. Set on 26 acres, the park vividly creates village life in the nineteenth century; its thirty buildings, Regency period walled garden, and many tastes, scents and sights will delight adults and children alike. Also nearby is Stonewall Visitor Farm, with 45 acres hosting exotic and farm animals, nature walks and trails, an indoor pets corner and two indoor play areas.
Whichever of these, or many other, adventures guests choose to enjoy during their visit, they will be warmly welcomed back to Dromoland Castle to round out the day by relaxing in the drawing room, rejuvenating at the spa, enjoying a gourmet meal, or simply retiring to their luxurious guest rooms…there to dream of another day experiencing Ireland at its finest.
