Destination Dromoland

Spend just a little time at Dromoland, and you’ll soon realise that every corner of this very special place has at least one story to tell. The Castle sits upon many layers of fascinating history, laid down over the centuries by a long lineage of irrepressible characters who once called Dromoland their home.

Give yourself the gift of a few hours to roam the five-hundred acre estate surrounding Dromoland Castle, where every path leads you somewhere wonderful. Elegant walled gardens. A shimmering lake. An enchanting wild woodland. A peaceful lily pond. A secret grotto. When was the last time you just let yourself wander?

Lighthearted fun, good-natured competition, blissful relaxation and the thrill of trying new things: every human being deserves time to play. Traditional countryside pursuits like archery, clay shooting, and falconry. Active recreation such as tennis, golf, and swimming. A nurturing interlude at The Spa, doing the perfect amount of nothing at all. Spend your time at Dromoland on whatever makes you happiest.

Spend an afternoon browsing your way through the winding mediaeval lanes of Ennis, our near neighbour. It’s a friendly little town, compact and extremely walkable. You’ll find a bustling community of independent boutiques and cafes, a 13th century friary, and year-round trad music sessions in its many welcoming pubs.

We could tell you how otherworldly the landscape feels, wandered by wild goats and studded with thousands of ancient ruins. We could describe how magical and rare the wildflowers are, carving out a fragile life between the limestone crevices. But the Burren really has to be experienced to be believed. One of our favourite ways to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site is to taste your way along the Burren Food Trails, visiting world-class artisan suppliers and restaurants at every stop.

These iconic cliffs have had starring roles in many classic films over the years, but until you’ve seen them with your own eyes, it’s impossible to describe how breathtaking they really are. Spend a little time in the Visitor Centre to learn about this geological wonder, make your way along the safe, paved cliff walk path and admire the incredible views out into the Atlantic, or book a cruise and see The Cliffs themselves up close from a new perspective.

Charming little Killaloe, the birthplace of High King Brian Boru, sits on the banks of the mighty River Shannon, linked to its twin town Ballina in County Tipperary by a landmark 18th century bridge that you can cross on foot. It’s also a lovely spot to begin a river cruise or fishing expedition, if the weather’s with you.

Home to one of Clare’s most iconic landmarks, the 23 metre tall Loop Head Lighthouse. There has been a lighthouse on this peninsula for more than three centuries: this one has stood since 1854. You can climb it, if you dare, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to Connemara. From tranquil bird-watching walks to adrenaline-pumping adventure sports, a day at Loop Head is a day you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Often hailed as the cultural capital of Ireland, Galway city is just an hour’s drive from Dromoland and well worth the trip. A deep devotion to the arts, a flourishing foodie scene and a constant stream of festivals means that there’s always something exciting to experience. Galway Bay in the sunshine is a sight to treasure, but when that moody West Coast weather closes in, it’s a lovely feeling to be tucked away in a traditional Galway pub with a roaring fire and a perfect pint.

A trip to the Aran Islands is a trip to another world, where Ireland’s own language and traditional arts still flourish. Hop on a little charter plane or take the pedestrian ferry over from Connemara (if you’re lucky you might see dolphins frolicking in the ferry’s wake) to Inis Mór, Inis Meáin or Inis Oírr, and soak in the unique atmosphere of these beautiful little islands, where time stands still.

Rising from the banks of the Shannon River, Limerick is a fun and friendly city with a rich history, an engaging cultural heritage, and a passion for sport. Spend the day enjoying its art galleries, museums, immersive walking tours, and thriving restaurant scene, with a stop by the thrilling International Rugby Experience and a tour of Thomond Park Stadium for the sports fans.