County Clare
Ireland


The Experience

It's the Irish castle that you've always imagined -- complete with 40 shades of rolling green, romantic turrets and suits of armor. There's also, unfortunately, a dash of trite, but Dromoland remains a perennial favorite. It's easy to see why. Set on 375 gorgeous acres of lush Irish countryside, the 16th-century ancestral seat of the Earl of Thumomd (who still lives in a gatehouse on the property) offers history combined with plenty of outdoor activities. And, just 10 minutes from Shannon Airport, it's an ideal way to begin or end an Irish getaway and an excellent base from which to explore the west of Ireland.

The Rooms

While perfectly comfortable and spacious, with views of the castle's manicured estate (ask for a lake view), standard rooms can be lacking in authenticity. Suites are more thoughtfully appointed, with quality fabrics and Irish-style antiques. Book the Club Wing, an addition to the original property, where the tariff includes breakfast buffet, drinks and canapés as well as after-dinner cordials.

The Service

As is increasingly becoming the case in a more hurried Ireland, service can be very attentive and friendly or abrupt. Most of the staff is Eastern European: Genial bellhops make an effort to greet you every time you come and go from the hotel, and pro shop folks couldn't be nicer about handling your clubs, but you might not get a fast pickup when you ring down to the front desk with a question.

The Highlights

Dromoland has begun a series of additions and improvements, beginning with the August 2006 debut of the Dromoland Castle Golf Academy, which is affiliated with the hotel's 18-hole course. Next up for 2007 is a much-needed Wellness Center, which will complement the existing pool and health clinic; spa treatments are on offer, but skip them until the new spa opens. Dromoland's strong points are indeed its activities, with trout fishing in a stocked lake, clay pigeon shooting, archery and horseback riding arranged with neighboring stables. After sport, relax with a cup of tea or a hot whiskey by one of the wood-burning fires in the public rooms, or listen to nightly harp music in the dining room while noshing on local salmon and Galway Bay oysters.

-- Sallie Brady

Find Hotel Deals on Yahoo Travel»