Ireland might not be the first destination that springs to mind when you think of a luxury break, but it has a lot to offer for those seeking authentic experiences and who appreciate a genuine sense of hospitality.
Dublin – a warm Irish welcome
Most journeys through Ireland begin in Dublin, a city that effortlessly combines Georgian elegance with a lively cultural scene. If you are arriving in the Irish capital, you may want to stay at The Merrion Hotel. The building dates back to the 1760s and is home to an important private collection of 19th- and 20th-century art. It offers a special Art Tea, where the pastries are inspired by the works hanging throughout the hotel, and there are art pieces even in the hotel’s swimming pool.
Before leaving the city, make time for a little retail therapy at Brown Thomas, Dublin’s glamorous department store. Here you’ll find the latest fashion, bespoke jewelry and a range of personalized services, including beauty consultancy, made-to-measure tailoring, gifting concierge and lingerie fittings.
County Mayo – Irish hospitality at its best
As much as we love Dublin, to see the real Ireland, you must explore its countryside. Heading west, the pace of life slows down, and the landscapes become greener and more dramatic.
Stay at Ashford Castle for a real historic experience with all modern comforts, such as the in-house cinema. Some of the best experiences when in Ashford are, however, outside. Why not try a private painting class, clay shooting, a morning walk with Irish Wolfhounds, or our favorite: falconry?
After a long day out, you will be happy to sit by the fireplace and chat with members of staff. Some of them have been working at the Castle for over 50 years!
County Limerick – a golfer’s paradise
Continuing south, golf enthusiasts should make a stop at Adare Manor. Set within an 840-acre estate, the neo-Gothic manor has become one of Europe’s leading golf destinations. Its championship course, redesigned by renowned architect Tom Fazio, has been chosen to host the 2027 Ryder Cup, placing it firmly on every golfer’s wish list.
Even if golf isn’t your passion, the estate offers beautiful woodland walks, an excellent spa, fine dining and the warm Irish hospitality for which it has become known.
Along the way – Ireland’s iconic landscapes
The journey through the country is one of the highlights of being in Ireland. On your way towards County Kerry, take time to admire the Cliffs of Moher, where dramatic cliffs rise more than 200 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, creating one of the country’s most spectacular views.
Then continue along the famous Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s best-loved scenic drives. Passing mountains, lakes, charming villages, and rugged coastline, it is a route best enjoyed slowly, with plenty of stops to admire the scenery.
County Kerry – wellness with a view
After a day on the road, the Europe Hotel & Resort is the perfect place to unwind. Set on the shores of Lough Léin with uninterrupted views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range, the hotel is famous for its spectacular location.
Its award-winning 50,000-square-foot wellness center includes indoor and outdoor vitality pools overlooking the lake, a 20-meter swimming pool and 16 treatment rooms. It is the perfect place to slow down before continuing your Irish adventure.
Ireland for food lovers
We are well aware that there are keen foodies amongst our readers; and Ireland has some outstanding restaurants waiting to be discovered.
Terre, located at Castlemartyr Resort, has earned two Michelin stars for its original approach to fine dining. Chef Vincent Crepel combines French techniques with Japanese influences while showcasing the very best seasonal Irish ingredients (see photo).
The tasting menu changes regularly, making every visit a little different and reflecting the produce available throughout the year.
Another address worth making a detour for is Liath Restaurant in Blackrock. Awarded two Michelin stars, Liath is known for its highly creative cuisine, where locally sourced Irish ingredients are transformed into beautifully presented tasting menus. With only a small number of guests welcomed each service, dinner here feels intimate, personal and carefully crafted.
Ireland: a journey to remember
One of Ireland’s greatest strengths is how easy it is to combine very different experiences in one trip. Within a few hours’ drive, you can travel from the elegant streets of Dublin to centuries-old castles, championship golf courses, dramatic coastlines and some of Europe’s most exciting restaurants.
Luxury in Ireland is not about excess. It is about genuine hospitality, spectacular landscapes, and experiences that feel personal. Whether you spend your day walking with Irish Wolfhounds, driving along the Ring of Kerry, or enjoying an unforgettable tasting menu, Ireland has a way of making visitors feel at home and leaving them wanting to return.
Photo credits
Main image: Florian Stevens/Getty
Ashford Castle: Sergiu Cozorici/Getty
Cliffs of Moher: Francesco Vaninetti Photo/Getty
All our 'best luxury destinations' in one place
Here’s the complete set of Barbara Czyzewska's top luxury destinations for you to enjoy:
#1 - St. Moritz: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-1-st-moritz/
#2 - Zimbabwe: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-2-zimbabwe/
#3 - French Polynesia: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-3-french-polynesia/
#4 - American 'Great Outdoors': https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-4-american-great-outdoors/
#5 - Japan's spring blossom season: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-5-japan-spring-blossom-sakura-season/
#6 - Paris in private: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-6-paris-in-private-more-intimate-luxury/
#7 - Istanbul and the gateway between east and west: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-7-istanbul/
#8 – Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea Project: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-8-saudi-arabia-red-sea-project/
#9 - Sensory stimulation in Portugal: https://www.glion.edu/magazine/worlds-best-luxury-destinations-9-sensory-stimulation-in-portugal/
