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Castles & Abbey of Ireland Experience
Irish excellence awaits
Get ready for an adventure to remember! Spend several nights of excitement exploring the Emerald Isle as you've never seen it before! As you drive through sprawling farmlands and bustling cities, you'll make stops to explore the historical architecture, vibrant nightlife, and serene beauty of Ireland. With the freedom to jump into your rental car to explore where you want, when you want, you'll get to make your own magic on this epic journey.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car for duration, upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Cavan at Cabra Castle Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Roscommon at The Abbey Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Donegal at Lough Eske Castle, or similar
- 2 nights near Dublin at Dunboyne Castle Hotel, or similar
Great Ways to Explore
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Meander the waterways along the River Shannon or visit the many beautiful lakes of Cavan.
- Taste Drumshambo Gunpowder Gin or visit to Slane Castle & Distillery in Meath.
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Stop by Trim Castle or investigate the ancient burial site of Newgrange!
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Enjoy views of the picturesque countryside as you drive from destination to destination.
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Get to know the unspoiled treasures of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands!
Ireland's Hidden Heartlands are yours to explore! Venture out of the ordinary and into the undiscovered treasure trove tucked away in the Emerald Isle.
Your trip begins in Cavan, where you might choose to explore ruins, visit Killykeen Forest Park, or find your own personal paradise. After, you'll move along to take in the gifts of Roscommon.
Then, move on to the mouth of the River Eske, where your Donegal accommodations await. The area is packed with picturesque scenery and tons of activities to enjoy.
End your experience in Dublin, where you might be interested in visiting Dublin Castle or simply take in the city's exciting nightlife.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Dublin (DUB)
- Manual economy class car for duration, upgrade to automatic available
- 1 night in Cavan at Cabra Castle Hotel, or similar
- 2 nights in Roscommon at The Abbey Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in Donegal at Lough Eske Castle, or similar
- 2 nights near Dublin at Dunboyne Castle Hotel, or similar
Great Ways to Explore
-
Meander the waterways along the River Shannon or visit the many beautiful lakes of Cavan.
- Taste Drumshambo Gunpowder Gin or visit to Slane Castle & Distillery in Meath.
-
Stop by Trim Castle or investigate the ancient burial site of Newgrange!
-
Enjoy views of the picturesque countryside as you drive from destination to destination.
-
Get to know the unspoiled treasures of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands!
Package Overview
Ireland's Hidden Heartlands are yours to explore! Venture out of the ordinary and into the undiscovered treasure trove tucked away in the Emerald Isle.
Your trip begins in Cavan, where you might choose to explore ruins, visit Killykeen Forest Park, or find your own personal paradise. After, you'll move along to take in the gifts of Roscommon.
Then, move on to the mouth of the River Eske, where your Donegal accommodations await. The area is packed with picturesque scenery and tons of activities to enjoy.
End your experience in Dublin, where you might be interested in visiting Dublin Castle or simply take in the city's exciting nightlife.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Deal Of The Week
Day 1. Welcome to Dublin!
Pick up your rental car and head straight for Cavan! If you're an adventure-seeker, you'll want to stop by the Cavan Adventure Centre, where a local guide will share legends and stories of the area as you explore the lake and island castle by kayak or powerboat. The lake and surrounding Killykeen Forest Park is a protected conservation site and home to an impressive population of Whooping Swans. Hop aboard for an experience you'll never forget!
Cavan,
Ireland
1 of 3 hotels
From the moment you arrive through the acres of beautifully manicured gardens to this magnificent 19th century 4-star castle hotel in the Cavan countryside, you will feel welcomed and thoroughly spoiled. Set on 100 acres of parklands and gardens, with the magnificent backdrop of Dún a' Rí Forest Park, there is much to explore both indoors and out. Cabra Castle is one of the most unique luxury hotels in Ireland and is also one of the best-known castle wedding venues in Ireland. (Please note: Cabra Castle accommodations are not located within the main castle building).
Built in 1760, this upscale hotel is lavishly decorated with tall ceilings and grand staircases. Guest rooms are designed in a historic fashion with all the modern amenities a traveler needs to stay comfortable including a satellite TV, tea/coffee maker, and more. The Cabra Castle Hotel also has an on-site restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, as well as a bar perfect for relaxing with a drink.
Cavan,
Ireland
2 of 3 hotels
Enjoy a tranquil setting at Slieve Russel Hotel Golf & Country Club. Set on 300 acres of land, you'll find your experience to be positively relaxing! Guest rooms are furnished with free WiFi, coffee/tea making facilities, television, and more. Three onsite restaurants offer guests a variety of dining options featuring modern European flavors and light bites. Relax and unwind in the luxurious spa. Pamper yourself with a massage, body treatment, or time in the sauna. The hotel is proud to offer a variety of activities including golf lessons, a game room, a swimming pool, and more fun for the whole family!
Enniskillen,
Northern Ireland
3 of 3 hotels
Located in Enniskillen, the gateway to North West Ireland, the Lough Erne Resort is luxurious 5-star resort on a stunning 600-acre peninsula. Enjoy spectacular views of the Fermanagh Lakelands and The Faldo Course, 120 elegant rooms, several dining options, a Thai spa and a 36-hole golf course.
From this location, you'll be a within a 90 minute drive of Belfast International Airport (Aldergrove); Belfast City Airport (George Best); Dublin International Airport, Sligo and City of Derry Airport as well Belfast and Dublin Ports. This luxurious resort has been selected as host of the 2017 Irish Open, a major sporting celebration and something that will be of equally significant benefit in showcasing the beauty, the facilities and the hospitality of this award-winning hotel and this wonderful part of the world.
Day 2. Cavan - Roscommon
Your next stop is Roscommon! Once settled, head out for some adventure! You may enjoy kicking off your stay in Roscommon by treating yourself to a Moon River Pleasure Cruise on the Shannon. Get to know the area's points of interest and hear some local stories and folklore!
Or, you could take in the rustic beauty of Clonalis House. The property sprawls over pasture and woodland and is regarded as one of the most important historic properties in Ireland. The property is full of gems to see such as O'Conor family heirlooms, the harp of Turlough O'Carolan, and a magnificent library holding over 7,000 volumes.
Roscommon,
Ireland
1 of 3 hotels
Situated in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, in the beautiful countryside town of Roscommon, is where you will find the 4* Abbey Hotel, a multi-award winning and charming family-run, 18th-century Castle Manor setting owned and run by the Grealy family since 1963. Enjoy free WiFi, television, and coffee/tea making facilities in every guest room. Dine onsite at the restaurant for lunch or dinner, or sip a cocktail at the Abbey Hotel Bar. The Abbey Hotel takes it's name from the 12th Century Dominican Abbey, located beside the hotel with views of the ruins visible from our award winning Restaurant and Bedrooms.
Roscommon,
Ireland
2 of 3 hotels
The Kilronan Castle in Roscommon is situated just 45 minutes from Sligo Airport, one hour from Knock International Airport & two hours from Dublin International Airport. Kilronan Castle is the ideal base from which to explore Ireland's rugged West Coast.
Kilronan Castle is the ancestral home of the Tenison family and the legendary Colonel King Tenison. It is one of a few Irish castle estates that can trace its history back to royal families.
This secluded castle hotel is set on the shores of Lough Meelagh in Roscommon. The castle is surrounded by over forty acres of breathtaking Irish scenery, lush green pastures, ancient forests and historical points of interest.
Leitrim,
Ireland
3 of 3 hotels
Rich in ancient character and original charm, Lough Rynn Castle still retains all of its historic splendor, with antique furnishings, open fires, wood paneling and decorative stone and glasswork. Today, the hotel combines its traditional elegance with modern comforts and facilities.
The castle bedrooms feature air conditioning and broadband internet access, while the estate's former stables and pheasantry have also been converted into luxurious accommodations. All rooms are tastefully decorated with rich, luxurious fabrics and beautifully preserved original features.
The Sandstone Restaurant offers an elegant fine-dining experience and has received an AA Rosette award. The restaurant offers a series of table d’hôte and à la carte menus, created using the finest, freshest seasonal produce from Leitrim and the surrounding counties.
Day 3. Roscommon
Explore the surrounding county of Roscommon today! Consider a visit to Strokestown Park where you can spend a few hours at The National Famine Museum. Learn about the history and politics of Great Irish Famine of the 1840s and hear moving stories of hunger, eviction, and migration.
After, you can get a first-hand experience of a coal miner's life and the centuries-old mining heritage of Arigna Mines. Take in the panoramic views over Lough Allen before descending underground. A local, former coal miner will guide you through the mines and share stories of their personal experiences in the mines.
Roscommon
Day 4. Roscommon - Donegal
Your next destination is Donegal, set at the start of the Wild Atlantic Way. You'll see enchanting skylines, picturesque ports, and enchanting villages if you choose to drive this idyllic path.
Or, take the drive to the Belleek Visitor's Centre, one of Ireland's top five visitor attractions.
Donegal,
Ireland
1 of 2 hotels
A truly unique luxury castle hotel in Ireland, the Lough Eske Castle, a hotel and spa, sits within 43 acres of forest woodland, hugging the shores of Lough Eske, with the Blue Stack Mountains in the background. Lough Eske Castle Hotel is the only 5-star hotel in Donegal. This lovingly restored castle hotel in Ireland blends its historic past with a dash of contemporary elegance.
Escape into a luxurious world of relaxed grandeur and extraordinary personal service. From the spa to the dining table to your beautifully appointed guest room, Lough Eske Castle provides a truly accommodating environment where the dedication to the guest is thoughtful, reliable, consistent and complete. Superb service and superior amenities make every day here a perfect day.
The Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa has been awarded the best luxury hotel in Ireland by The Times in the UK, Conde Nast's Top Ten Luxury Hotels in Ireland for five consecutive years including 2022, Ireland's Castle Wedding Venue of the Year 2022, two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence in Cedars Restaurant, Ulster Spa of the Year 2019 by Irish Tatler Magazine, and more!
Please Note
If adding a Dinner and/or an Afternoon Tea or activity to your reservation, you will need to contact the hotel prior to your stay to pre-book with the date and time you would like to confirm. We recommend contacting them as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Donegal,
Ireland
2 of 2 hotels
Harvey's Point Hotel has a magical location amid the Bluestack Mountains, on the edge of Lough Eske. It is 6 km from Donegal town and the Atlantic coast in the Northwest of Ireland. Each bedroom is elegant and private, and has a large Italian marble bathroom. Rooms also have a TV and facilities for making tea and coffee. Harvey's Point restaurant has 2 AA Rosettes and provides relaxed, elegant dining. Food is made using locally sourced ingredients.
Day 5. Donegal - Dublin Area
Head to Dublin today, and see what makes Ireland's capital city so special! You can visit the spiritual highlights, from the imposing St. Patrick's Cathedral to stunning Christ Church Cathedral, or explore the historical staples from Dublin Castle to the cryptic Kilmainham Gaol prison.
Dunboyne,
Ireland
1 of 3 hotels
With a sophisticated combination of traditional old-world opulence and contemporary design, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa sets a new precedent and fresh interpretation for hotels around Ireland. As one of the leading 4-star hotels in Ireland, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa features unique attributes that emphasize the beauty of its estate. Standing on 21 acres of mature manicured lawns and gardens, the hotel's most unique attribute is the peaceful oasis it offers guests, while also being located in such close proximity to Dublin's city center and surrounding golf courses.
The hotel is situated on the grounds of a former castle; the original castle was destroyed during the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland. The 18th-century Georgian house that we see today is at the heart of the hotel, blending seamlessly with the stylish, modern bedrooms and restaurant in the contemporary wing. The historic mansion, once home to the Lord of Dunboyne, today serves as one of Ireland's foremost exclusive hotels on Dublin's doorstep.
Its 145 large, comfortable rooms boast free WiFi, air-conditioning, HD TV, and much more. Relax at Seoid, meaning jewel in Irish, the decadent on-site spa. Unwind in the crystal steam room, enjoy an herbal sauna, pamper yourself with a mud treatment, and more. Take a stroll through the lavish garden, then indulge in a delicious meal at the Ivy Restaurant. Feast your eyes on its carefully prepared seasonal menu, then taste the award-winning flavors of the in-house chefs, who've earned 2 AA Rosettes from 2013 to date.
Dublin,
Ireland
2 of 3 hotels
The 4-star Fitzpatrick Castle is known for its stylish surroundings, friendly service and breathtaking surroundings - all within easy reach of Dublin! Its 113 luxurious guest rooms and suites are decorated in traditional castle style.
Dining options include the AA Rosette award-winning P.J's Restaurant, with a menu offering creations using the finest ingredients sourced daily from the local area. A more informal option is The Dungeon Bar & Grill, housed in the former dungeon, and is a popular spot for drinks and dinner by the fireplace. Afternoon tea is served in the Library Bar.
The Fitzpatrick Castle Leisure Club features a 65-foot indoor swimming pool, on-deck whirlpool spa, and Scandinavian wood sauna and steam room.
Kildare,
Ireland
3 of 3 hotels
A hidden gem in Ireland, the Barberstown Castle Hotel is located in the village of Straffan, Co. Kildare. This elegant hotel was built in a 13th-century castle expanding over 20 acres of grounds and provides close, easy access to Dublin.
Guest rooms are individually furnished each boasting an old world charm. matched with all the modern amenities a traveler needs. These include free Wi-Fi, a TV, private bathroom, and lavish touches like chandeliers.
The hotel's fine dining restaurant blends the best of Irish and French cuisine with seasonally fresh, locally sourced produce. There is also live music on the weekends. Guests can also enjoy afternoon tea and freshly baked scones in the Edwardian tea rooms. Other amenities at the hotel include bicycle rentals, a library, garden, and dry cleaning/laundry services.
Both central Dublin and the airport are about a 30-minute drive away; free parking on-site makes it easy for visitors with cars, while nearby buses for guests without. The quaint town of Straffan is about 1.5 miles away, while the impressive Powerscourt House and Estate is about 40 minutes away.
Day 6. Dublin
Venture forth for a full day in Dublin! Uncover the secrets and history of Dublin Castle, then go for a stroll through the stunning Trinity College Castle. While exploring the grounds, consider paying a visit to the illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells.
You might also want to take a deeper dive into the drinking culture with a tour of the factories of your favorite stouts and spirits! Fans of the black stuff will want to explore the Guinness Storehouse, while whiskey fanatics will want to visit the Old Jameson Distillery or Teeling Whiskey Distillery.
In the evening, explore the Temple Bar district which is renowned for its nightlife and has a slew of pubs, restaurants, and galleries waiting to be explored.
Dublin
Day 7. Fly home!
Make your way to the airport in accordance with your departure flight. Be sure to leave extra time to drop off your car at the rental area.
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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Donegal, Ireland
Lough Eske Castle Hotel and Spa
5-star castle hotel w/ award-winning spa
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