The incomparable atmosphere of a fairy tale come true. Sleeping in a castle, a dream? There is a place where all this can become reality and you could be the protagonists, let’s find out how together.
Let’s face it: some historic places have a great fascination for people of all ages. When we visit them we are filled with the desire to almost go back in time to relive the stories told in history books and novels. Imagine being able to sleep in one of the fairytale places, like princes and princesses. There is a place that makes it possible.
Sleeping in a fairytale castle, that’s where
A possibility that leaves many tourists incredulous, that of doing a real journey through time within the ancient walls of a castle.
And it is no coincidence that this is possible in a place already rich in wonderful places. To know more we have to travel to Ireland and precisely to the village of Cong. Practically very close to beautiful Galway.
Here arises the majestic Ashford Castlea residence so ancient and prestigious that it has also hosted film and TV series productions.
Well if you want to stop here to sleep during a vacation, know that it’s possible because inside it houses a real luxury hotel!
Ashford Castle, to become the protagonist of a fairy tale
How did an Irish manor house ever become a tourist accommodation facility?
Since its construction in 1221, Ashford Castle has passed through the hands of various owners, among them the famous Guinness family. Thanks to them the fortress was restored and shaped in its definitive aspect, the one that has come down to the present day.
The members of Red Carnation Hotels thought about transforming it into a hotel structure, who bought it in 2013 and converted it into what it is today: a luxury castle hotel.
A beautiful Norman-style manor surrounded by greenery, which extends for 300 hectares and which today, thanks to Red Carnation Hotels, has prestigious additions such as stables, a riding school, a large spa and a falconry school.
Thanks to the enchanted beauty of the place and the varied relaxation offer, Ashford Castle it is among the best hotels in all of Europe.
Sleeping in a castle, the majestic welcome of the Ashford estate
Transforming a residence with such an ancient history without affecting its prestigious medieval atmosphere and respecting tradition must not have been easy, yet those who have been able to stay here confirm it. Staying overnight in Ashford is like becoming the protagonist of a chivalrous tale.
The watchword here is abundance: there are in fact 83 rooms available divided in a balanced way between basic and suites. The gastronomic offer is also very varied because of the structure there are seven restaurants.
Everything inside is designed with great precision to combine the comforts of modern life and therefore the comforts of technology, with the maintenance of the original features. Guests should have the feeling of resting and eating as if they were truly in a distant era.
In the castle there is also a very renowned Spa for relaxation. If, on the other hand, you want sports, you’ll practically be spoiled for choice because in addition to the aforementioned horse riding and falconry schools, you can practice archery, golf, fishing and there are several cycle paths.
Eating in Ashford, the castle restaurants
Staying here also means experiencing the prestigious local cuisine, and Ashford Castle has a varied offering across its seven establishments.
Il George V Dining Room offers vegan and vegetarian menus accompanied by excellent wine: dining here requires a dark suit. The Dungeon is located in the dungeons of the castle as the name suggests and prepares bistro-style dishes of traditional Irish cuisine.
The delicious Cullen’s at the Cottage was formerly a cinemahas a more relaxed and convivial atmosphere and offers international dishes every day. The Drawing’s Room is suitable for breakfast and light lunches while Stanley’s recreates the atmosphere of an American diner.
The Connaught’s Room, furnished according to the splendor of ancient times, is instead ideal for a “proper afternoon tea”, accompanied by traditional sweets and snacks. In the end Squire Danagher’s it was originally the house where the film “The Quiet Man” was filmed in the 1950s, and has kept the original furnishings to let the patrons immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Ireland of those years.
Staying overnight in Ashford Castle is possible all year round, but given the fame of the place it is advisable to book well in advance.
