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Ashford Castle

Cong, Ireland

An iconic symbol of Irish tradition, warm hospitality, and timeless elegance.

Property Overview

Set along the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle is an 800-year-old estate where Irish history and contemporary comforts come together in perfect harmony. Once home to the Guinness family, the castle underwent a thoughtful restoration by Red Carnation in 2014 and 2015, preserving its historic character while introducing modern touches throughout the 350-acre property. Home to Ireland’s only Forbes Five-Star hotel and spa, Ashford Castle is known as much for its warm hospitality as its storied past, with many team members having welcomed guests for decades. From traditional afternoon tea in The Connaught Room and fine dining in the George V Dining Room to falconry, horseback riding, spa treatments, and morning walks through the estate, every experience reflects the castle’s deep sense of place and enduring Irish charm.

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SmartFlyer Exclusives

  • Welcome drink on arrival
  • Irish breakfast for two daily
  • $100 food & beverage credit, per room, per stay (not combinable, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Upgrade to next category, subject to availability

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Agent Tips

  • Explore beyond the castle with quiet woodland paths, lakeside walks, and even a private island picnic on Lough Corrib.
  • Don’t over-plan. Ashford shines when guests leave space to wander.
  • Known as the “Real House of Guinness,” Ashford Castle offers heritage experiences that connect guests to its storied history.
Rooms + Suites

Traditional elegance and thoughtful design.

Each of the eighty-three rooms and suites at Ashford Castle reflects traditional elegance and thoughtful design. Guests can expect carefully considered comforts throughout, including the historic Boathouse perched above the lake, where couples can retreat in complete privacy.
Pool + Gym

Wellness facilities overlooking Lough Corrib.

Guests have access to both the award-winning spa pool overlooking Lough Corrib and the estate’s Éalú wellness center, home to a light-filled fifty-foot swimming pool, a Life Fitness gym, functional training studio, sauna, and steam room. Yoga, interval training, personal training, and on-demand digital workouts are also available, while a smaller fitness suite within the castle itself offers floor-to-ceiling lake views and an additional space to exercise.
Spa

A serene, adult-focused retreat.

The Spa at Ashford Castle is a serene, adult-focused retreat and Ireland’s only Forbes Five-Star Spa, anchored by a striking relaxation pool overlooking Lough Corrib, with white coral chandeliers and a dramatic Celtic Tree of Life mural. Facilities include a hammam, steam room, and elegant treatment suites, with bespoke spa journeys designed around restoration, balance, and a strong sense of place.
Restaurant + Bar

Seasonal Irish dining and historic cocktail spaces.

Dining across the Ashford Estate is guided by seasonal Irish produce, estate-grown ingredients, and thoughtful craftsmanship under the direction of Executive Chef Liam Finnegan. At the castle, guests can enjoy refined dining in the George V Dining Room alongside more relaxed options such as Cullen’s at the Cottage and the atmospheric Dungeon, where menus showcase fresh seafood and classic Irish dishes. Many ingredients are sourced from the estate’s historic kitchen gardens and surrounding woodlands, while additional dining is available at Wilde’s at The Lodge at Ashford Castle, serving contemporary Irish cuisine with views over Lough Corrib. The Prince of Wales Bar is a richly atmospheric space steeped in history and named after the future King George V, who visited in 1905. Original wood paneling, an open fireplace, and plush furnishings create an intimate setting for expertly crafted cocktails, fine Irish whiskeys, and classic aperitifs, making it a natural gathering place before or after dinner.
  • Vibe
    A grand yet welcoming castle estate offering immersive Irish heritage experiences and warm Irish hospitality.
  • Who's it for?
    Ashford Castle is ideal for multigenerational families, romantic milestone trips, and experience-led travelers seeking a fully contained estate with outdoor pursuits, wellness, refined dining, and authentic Irish culture.
  • Location
    Set within the 350-acre Ashford Estate along the shores of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle is reached by winding woodland drives that reveal ancient forests and glittering lake islands, creating a strong sense of arrival and seclusion.

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