• Ireland's castle hotels combine history with contemporary luxury.malahyde castle ireland image by Warren Rosenberg from Fotolia.com
  
  Part of Ireland's romantic appeal lies in its ancient castles that date back hundreds of years. Even today, these magnificent stone castles can be found in every part of the country. Visitors who want to experience Ireland as it was centuries ago will find many castles that retain their historic lineage, but have been refurbished as hotels with luxury accommodations, amenities and activities. A stay in an Irish castle back is a trip back through time, while enjoying the best of the present.
  
  

Ashford Castle

• Located near Galway, Ashford Castle was built in the 13th century. Set amid woods and parkland on Lough Corrib, the five-star hotel is famous for its grandeur and surroundings. Many of the rooms and suites retain their original architecture and features. All rooms have broadband Internet and interactive TV. The hotel has five restaurants and a spa. Its activities include fishing, golf, horseback riding and falconry. In 2008 Conde Nast chose Ashford Castle as the best resort in Ireland and the second best resort in Europe.
  
  Ashford Castle
  Cong, County Mayo
  Republic of Ireland
  +353-94-954-6003
  ashford.ie
  
  

Dromoland Castle

• Dromoland Castle claims a history as far back as the fifth century when it was the castle of the O'Briens, one of Ireland's most important clans. With a rating of five stars, Dromoland Castle is set on 410 acres of sweeping parkland, gardens and a lake. The hotel has 98 bedrooms that range from guestrooms in the Queen Anne style to staterooms and suites. Dromoland Castle offers family accommodations, children's menus and television channels for children. The hotel serves afternoon tea and packs picnics for guests. There is a private golf club on the grounds.
  
  Dromoland Castle
  Newmarket-On-Fergus, County Clare
  Republic of Ireland
  +353-61-368-144
  dromoland.ie
  
  

Waterford Castle

• Waterford Castle is situated on a 310-acre private island that guests get to by ferry. The castle was built 800 years ago and still has elements of its Jacobean heritage. Its décor includes massive oak doors, carved stone, wood paneling, antiques and original tapestries. There are 17 bedrooms and suites. Guests can choose from three dining rooms or have afternoon tea in the entrance hall. The four-star hotel has its own golf course. It is near the town of Waterford, the home of Waterford Crystal Prestige.
  
  Waterford Castle
  The Island
  Waterford, County Waterford
  Republic of Ireland
  +353-51-878-203
  waterfordcastle.com
  
  

Belleek Castle

• During the 16th century, Belleek Castle was the ancestral home of the Earl of Arran. Now it's an intimate hotel set on 1,000 acres of woodland on the banks of the River Moy. There are 15 individually-designed guestrooms furnished with traditional décor and antiques. The dining room features vegetarian and organic dishes. Belleek Castle has a museum with the finest collection of 16th century armor in Ireland. It is close to three championship golf courses, tennis, squash, an indoor riding arena, surfing beaches and fishing.
  
  Beleek Castle
  Ballina, County Mayo
  Republic of Ireland
  +353-962-2400
  belleekcastle.com
  
  

Ballyseede Castle

• Ballyseede Castle is a gateway to the Dingle Peninsula and the Ring of Kerry, a 150-mile scenic drive through the southwestern part of Ireland. The 16 century castle is located on the outskirts of Tralee town. Its 30 acres of parkland and woods furnish the backdrop for the castle's 22 guestrooms, staterooms and suites. The hotel has fishing, equestrian facilities and golf nearby.
  
  Ballyseede Castle
  Tralee, County Kerry
  Republic of Ireland
  +353-66-712-5799 or 877-905-6789 (toll-free)