3 minute read
The Emerald Isle
Explore the Emerald Isle
by Dena Roche
With fairy tale castles, luxury accommodations, bucolic rolling hills—a trip to the lush green countryside is a must.
The fantastical Emerald City might only exist in Oz, but the magical Emerald Isle stands waiting for all to experience its charms. Ireland is known for its rugged, beautiful landscape, history, and friendliness of its people. The island has something for everyone from the bustling city of Dublin to countryside that looks like a landscape painting come to life. Here are our favorite places to stay on our road trip through lush scenery in Ireland.
ADARE MANOR
Castle DROMOLAND CASTLE
Fly into Shannon Airport and begin your Irish adventure on the west coast in County Clare. The county boasts some of the most picturesque Irish scenes and is known for the Cliffs of Moher, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Poulnabrone Dolman, Neolithic tomb and Bunratty Castle, a 13th Century castle that is now the heart of a heritage park
Naturally in castle country, you need to stay in your own castle and the justrefurbished 16th Century Dromoland Castle is the best place to call home. Set on 450 acres, the castle boasts 97 guest rooms and suites, and original artwork by acclaimed Irish artist John Brennan. Enjoy Waterford Crystal chandeliers, hand-woven Venetian silk wall coverings, ancestral art, stained glass windows and other luxurious appointments fit for the king of the manor.
While at the castle, steep yourself in history, partaking in the activities a royal might have years ago including clay shooting, falconry or archery. Or try your luck fishing for trout on Dromoland Lough or the world-class 18-hole golf course. Dining at Dromoland is an epicurean delight whether in the fine dining, Earl of Thomond restaurant, to a traditional fireside afternoon tea. But perhaps our favorite was rowing out on the lake with a Champagne picnic in tow.
ICONIC TIP County Clare is known for fantastic Irish musicians. Check out the local talent at the castle’s cocktail bar or local pub.
Manor ADARE MANOR
AJust to the south of County Clare is County Limerick and the delightful Adare Village. The village is considered one of Ireland’s most attractive, and the area is known for its charming thatched roof cottages, many antique and crafts shops, and traditional pubs.
Having gotten a taste of the royal life, we’re sure you aren’t ready to abdicate your crown just yet, and a stay at the five-star Adare Manor will keep you in the lifestyle you’ve quickly become accustom to. The castle sits on a massive 842-acre estate surrounded by medieval ruins, walled gardens and winding woodland paths beckoning exploration. Adare Manor underwent a massive renovation two years ago, so the property retains all its historical charm, but with the conveniences modern monarchs demand.
Lodge SHEEN FALLS LODGE
Heading south to County Kerry, Sheen Falls Lodge is the ideal base to explore The Ring of Kerry, Beara Peninsula and Dingle. The Relais & Chateaux property offers the opportunity to book one of five thatched roof cottages or villas and enjoy spectacular views of the Sheen Waterfalls or Kenmare Bay. Salmon fish on a private 15-mile stretch of the Sheen River, make chocolate, learn pottery or even hunt for treasure.
ICONIC TIP Tour Kenmare in the hotel’s 1936 Vintage Buick.
Estate MOUNT JULIET ESTATE
The 18th Century Mount Juliet Estate boasts the classic Georgian manor house During your stay, you’ll have access to amenities on property including horseback riding, archery and fishing. After an T he top boutique hotel in Dublin, The Merrion, is the ideal place to wrap up your tour of the Emerald Isle. The five-star hotel comprises four Georgian Townhouses and a more contemporary Garden Wing. action-packed day, enjoy dinner at the Michelin-starred The Lady Helen Restaurant. The gourmet cuisine is crafted from local ingredients, many grown in the property’s herb
ICONIC TIP Work privately with the estate’s falconer and your own hawk, to learn the history and how to command the hawk.
Hotel MERRION HOTEL
gardens or farm. The Merrion sets itself apart boasting Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, the only two-star Michelin eatery in the entire country. Have a pre-drink aperitivo in The Cellar Bar, which is housed in the original 18th Century wine vaults.
