Rural Ireland may be most famous for its uninterrupted “Emerald Isle” greenery, but it’s even more of a pleasure to watch its leaves turn gold and amber. Among other forested spots, this spectrum of late autumn foliage is reflected most beautifully in Lough Corrib, the body of water at the foot of Ashford Castle, arguably Ireland’s best hotel and one of the most storied.  

This 800-year-old residence has a pleasing mix of outdoor living and cosy creature comforts that will suit your holiday mood as the season changes. This is a place where you can pull on a cashmere sweater for walks through the 350 acres of grounds, then dress up for dinner before a nightcap by the fireplace in the Prince of Wales Bar.  

While the hotel was recently named the fourth best in Europe (in the Conde Nast Traveller Reader’s Choice Awards, in the “Rest of Europe” category), it’s been a magnet for A-listers, leaders and trendsetters for more than a century: Oscar Wilde, King George V, John Lennon and Barbra Streisand have all stayed, whether in the building’s years as a private home or its subsequent life as a luxury hotel. Here’s how to enjoy this landmark hotel in the atmospheric holiday season months.  

Stay at Ashford Castle on: Ultimate Ireland and Castles and Kingdoms

Outdoor pursuits

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As well as heart-pumping walks through the lakeside, woodland and hills around the castle, guests visiting in late autumn can take full advantage of the cooler days to get out and about. Ashford is home to the oldest established falconry school in Ireland, where you’ll get to grips with these beautiful, huge-clawed birds of prey. Try the Hawk Walk experience, where you’ll embark on an atmospheric forest stroll with your own avine companion, giving them room to explore before swooping back to your gloved hand.  

Clay shooting and archery are both quintessential countryside experiences to acquaint you with your surroundings, while a lakeside cruise or fishing trip will get you out on the smooth, rippling waters of Lough Corrib, where the bronzed treetops frame a tranquil view as you cast your rod from a hand-crafted 19ft traditional wooden clinker.  

Equestrian types can enjoy Ireland’s best hotel on horseback. Saddle up with instructors or guides for lessons and trail rides, trotting out to the spectacular paths around the Lough, neighbouring woodland and into the mountains of Connemara to see the rural beauty of the county the way Ashford’s 19th-century guests did. 

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Sublime seasonal cuisine

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Ornate wood panelling, Waterford crystal chandeliers and period fireplaces characterise the dining and drinking haunts at Ashford Castle. But the chef’s vision for your meals is entirely modern: seasonal, local Irish produce is the priority in the George V dining room, where you can graze your way through tangy St Tola goat’s cheese from County Clare, lobster from Rossaveel, 60km away, and lamb loin from Kinvara, just the other side of Galway. The real highlight for many is the restaurant’s signature 28-day-aged Chateaubriand and braised cheek, which is carved for two from a vintage-style chef’s trolley in front of you.  

Autumnal fare in Ashford’s restaurants might include woodland girolle mushrooms, a spiced pumpkin soup or gourmet takes on root vegetables such as parsnip and carrot. Meanwhile, chilly October or November mornings cry out for a Full Irish breakfast before you set off to explore: think sausages from Andarl Farm, 40km north of where you sit, plus sizzling Irish bacon, black and white pudding, mushroom, tomato and eggs to order.  What better way to stay the day at Ireland’s best hotel?

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Warming spa sessions  

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After a day out on the Lough, with the falconry team or simply driving through County Mayo’s autumn foliage, an hour or three at the hotel’s world-class spa beckons. There’s a reason why this pampering palace has been named Ireland’s Best Spa for eight consecutive years at the World Spa Awards: as well as lavish interiors featuring chandeliers, lashings of gold and a striking Tree of Life mural, it has palatial treatment rooms with big-windowed views of the countryside, plus a hammam and relaxation pool.   

Keen walkers and jet-lagged long haulers can ease tense muscles with an aromatic massage using Voya seaweed products, where therapists tap into a long Irish tradition of using the coastal flora for healing and soothing purposes. Meanwhile a nourishing Natura Bissé facial will plump out dry skin after encounters with wind and rain, and an Ashford hammam session employs Atlantic salt and seaweed soap for an invigorating, inimitably Irish take on the Arabic spa tradition.  

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Stay in Ireland’s best hotel and discover the magic of the Emerald Isle on Ultimate Ireland and Castles and Kingdoms

With the magnificent 13th-century castle rising above the 350-acre estate in County Mayo, Ashford Castle is truly exceptional. And as the only hotel in Ireland to achieve two prestigious Five-Star Forbes Rankings, having this week earned the coveted award for its spa, it’s also truly luxurious. But that’s not the only reason why Ashford Castle is the ultimate Mother’s Day getaway. From the stunning location and historic rooms to the lavish amenities and world-class service, Ashford Castle promises to treat your mom like royalty this Mother’s Day. 

Experience it: Ultimate Ireland

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The Spa

Having recently been named as the only Forbes Five-Star spa in Ireland (only ten properties in Europe have achieved this status), you won’t find a better place to relax and rejuvenate than The Spa at Ashford. There’s a relaxation pool with jets, a steam room, and a terrace overlooking the peaceful Lough Corrib, along with an extensive treatment menu including massages, body wraps and facials. Beyond the classics, you’ll find heated stone beds and crystal therapy treatments. You’ll be in expert hands with skilled therapists and they only use organic products from the iconic Irish brand, VOYA. 

The soothing atmosphere has been perfectly crafted with low lighting, gorgeous decor, wall-to-wall windows, and a stunning mural depicting the Celtic tree of life by South African artist Jane du Rand. Our pick for your mom this Mother’s Day getaway? Go with the 60-minute Ashford Castle Ritual. From the warm Elemis massage and frangipani hair mask, to the therapeutic scalp massage, Superfood Pro-Radiance facial with Hydra Gel eye compresses, and pressure-point foot massage, this is the ultimate full-body experience.

Read more: Ashford Castle: An Idyllic Country Escape

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The Bedrooms

The best Mother’s Days ensure mom gets a good night’s rest and Ashford Castle certainly delivers here. Each room and suite is designed with impeccable taste and attention to detail. From the plush beds and luxurious linens to the antique furnishings, the bedrooms exude timeless elegance. Every room offers breathtaking views of the castle’s expansive grounds, Lough Corrib, or the River Cong, making for an unforgettable stay for your mom.

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The Dining

Your mom will dine like royalty at Ashford Castle, with a variety of dining options and locations. Start the day with a sumptuous breakfast in the regal George V Dining Room, where you can savor both traditional Irish and international dishes. For a more casual atmosphere, visit the cozy Dungeon, where you can enjoy bistro-style fare, including Irish-inspired dishes.

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In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at the renowned Cullen’s at the Cottage. You also have the option to enjoy farm-to-table delicacies at the Chef’s Table. Here, the estate’s Executive Chef uses only the freshest ingredients from Ashford’s gardens and local producers. No Mother’s Day getaway would be complete without a traditional afternoon tea in the elegant Connaught Room, where you can enjoy a delightful selection of sandwiches, pastries, and teas. If your mom has a sweet tooth, be sure to sample some of the signature pastries at Paula Pastry, the new pâtissier & chocolate concept located on Ashford Estate.

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The Grounds

Ashford Castle’s remarkable 350-acre estate offers a range of opportunities to get some fresh air in the great outdoors. You can wander through the immaculate Victorian Walled Garden, go on a lake cruise, or take a peaceful stroll along the shores of Lough Corrib. If your mom has an adventurous side, you can go horseback riding, cycling, fishing, clay shooting, try archery, or have a round of golf on the nine-hole course.

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You can even get acquainted with the falcons at Ashford’s Falconry, the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland. Whether you roam through the ancient woodlands or explore the 800-year-old castle that has been home to royals and the Guinness family, you’ll cherish this enchanting experience with your mom.

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The Services

Ashford Castle prides itself on exceptional service. From the moment you arrive, the dedicated staff will make your mom feel like a queen. Ask your concierge to arrange an experience, or relax in the on-site cinema, or billiards room. You can even go wine tasting in the underground wine cellar. Whatever you do, your mom is sure to feel appreciated with a Mother’s Day getaway at Ashford Castle.

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You can enjoy a luxurious three-night stay at Ashford Castle as part of our Ultimate Ireland luxury tour. The experience begins with a royal welcome as a lone piper escorts you over the drawbridge to the estate. Your stay includes dinner at the exceptional Cullen’s at the Cottage and a unique falconry experience. You’ll also enjoy a tour of the castle to see the beautifully restored castle interiors and original artwork and antiques. 

We’ve experienced a few scenic drives in our time – but there are few places that do it like Ireland. The Emerald Isle takes the humble country drive to the next level. Here, roads weave sinuously through the landscape, passing soaring mountains, windswept beaches, green pastures, and pretty villages. From the Ring of Kerry to the Dingle Peninsula, we look at two of the most divine drives you’ll experience on our Ultimate Ireland tour. 

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The Ring of Kerry Scenic Drive

Set on the Iveragh Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry scenic drive is one of Ireland’s finest.. In one 193-kilometre loop, you’ll see the best this stunning country, from charming villages and ancient castles, to rolling green hills and rugged coastline. You’ll experience it all on Day 8 of our Ultimate Ireland tour, as we journey from Killarney around the Ring of Kerry. 

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Killarney

We’ll start in the Killarney National Park, famed for its 10,000 acres of mountains, woodlands, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife. There’s also the nearby Ross Castle, a striking 15th-century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane. Explore the ancient castle while learning about the ancestral home of the Chiefs of the Clan O’Donoghue. Or enjoy a traditional jaunting cart ride through the stunning scenery. 

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Kenmare

We’ll also stop in the picturesque town of Kenmare. Here, you can admire the colourful facades and streets before indulging in a gourmet lunch at the historic Park Hotel. You’ll enjoy fresh, local flavors all with a backdrop of lush gardens stretching to the shores of Kenmare Bay. 

Gap of Dunloe

As we continue our scenic drive, you’ll lock eyes with the MacGillycuddy Reeks. It’s the highest mountain range in Ireland, home to some of the most impressive views in the country. You also can’t miss the Gap of Dunloe, the iconic mountain pass that encapsulates Ireland’s wild beauty. 

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The Dunloe

We’ll end our drive by heading back to our nearby hotel, The Dunloe. This is the most luxurious place stay on the edge of the Ring of Kerry. This sublime hotel is set on a spectacular 64-acre estate with emerald forest and the ruins of a 12th-century castle. A relaxing spa, gorgeous views, and locally-sourced delicacies like Kerry lamb and wild Atlantic fish. The Dunloe is the icing on an unforgettable day.

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Dingle Peninsula Scenic Drive

The Dingle Peninsula Scenic Drive is shorter than its famous Ring of Kerry counterpart. But it’s equally spectacular. This 47-kilometre loop encompasses towering mountains, patchworks of green pastures, traditional villages, and the Wild Atlantic Way. Experience it on Day 9 of our Ultimate Ireland tour, as we journey from Killarney around the Dingle Peninsula and onwards to Adare and Limerick.

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Wild Atlantic Way

We’ll start our adventure by taking in the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Wild Atlantic Way. Marvel at the waves crashing on the sandy beaches and craggy sea cliffs. On a sunny day, the ocean shines a bright shade of turquoise, while cloudy days contrast beautifully with the emerald mountains and pastures, creating dramatic scenery. You can’t miss setting eyes on Mount Brandon, the second-tallest mountain in Ireland towering almost one kilometre high.

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Dingle

There are only a few tiny towns here, but around 500,000 sheep call the peninsula home. We’ll make stops in some of the whimsical towns like Dingle, loved for its historic streets and colourful buildings. For lunch, make a stop in one of the traditional pubs, for fresh fish and chips and Guinness – quintessential Ireland.

The winding roads and ancient ruins of the Dingle Peninsula are so beautiful they’ve become film stars. You might recognise them from films such as “Ryan’s Daughter” and “Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi”.

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Adare

After enjoying the divine Dingle Peninsula, we’ll continue our scenic drive to Adare. This quaint village is heritage listed and famed as the prettiest village in Ireland. Admire the charming thatched-roof cottages and explore historic castles and abbeys before continuing on to legendary Limerick, where you’ll see highlights such as St. Mary’s Cathedral and Limerick’s Treaty Stone.

After conquering two of the most dazzling Irish drives in two days, you’ll be left with unforgettable memories, stories and photos of one of the most heavenly regions on earth.