Ashford Castle in County Mayo is among Ireland's most famous — not to mention most luxe — castle hotels. Prepare to be dazzled by the 800-year-old estate from the moment you enter through the magnificent stone gates. Each of the 83 rooms and suites is distinctively designed and done up in various bold hues like reds, yellows, and greens. The 350-acre property also boasts landscaped gardens, a tranquil spa, three bars, and six restaurants. 

Luxury lovers need not miss the 1832-era Adare Manor in County Limerick. The 840-acre property is home to a golf course, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a spa. Meanwhile, accommodations are outfitted with beautiful artwork, elegant furnishings, and marble bathrooms. On-site activities also abound, including tennis, yoga, fishing, carriage rides, archery, and falconry.

Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa is surrounded by 50 acres of lush greenery in County Roscommon. The 18th-century-era castle hotel features 84 rooms and suites that marry Old World charm with contemporary touches (think: heated floors, antique furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and four-poster beds). Amenities include three eateries, afternoon tea, a splendid Sunday lunch, a spa, and walking and biking trails. 

Dromoland Castle is a sprawling 450-acre estate in County Clare that dates back to the 16th century. Today, the opulent castle hotel is home to a golf course, a spa, several drinking and dining options (including extravagant afternoon tea), and lavish rooms and suites (most of which feature deep-soaking tubs). Guests can also choose from an array of activities like fishing, falconry, biking, go-karts, horseback riding, and archery, to name a few. 

The 310-acre Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort is situated on its own private island in County Waterford. The guest rooms inside this 16th-century-era castle are outfitted with antiques, original cast-iron windows, and beautiful bathrooms complete with clawfoot baths or walk-in showers. While breakfast is included in your room rate, you will want to splurge on the three-course afternoon tea service. Alternatively, order a drink in the antique-filled Fitzgerald Room Bar, which is known for its extensive wine list, fine Irish whiskey collection, and eye-catching Waterford Crystal chandelier. 

The centuries-old Ballynahinch Castle is located along the iconic Wild Atlantic Way in County Galway. Here, visitors may select from several unique bucket-list-worthy experiences like fly fishing, guided hikes, and gourmet picnics. After a day well spent exploring the Relais & Châteaux property and its scenic 700-acre grounds, guests can refuel with a bite to eat at one of two on-site restaurants before retreating to their rooms.

The 300-plus acre Lough Rynn Castle Estate & Gardens in County Leitrim has been magnificently restored to its former 19th-century-era glory with stately rooms and suites complete with antique furnishings. Visitors can stroll through the walled gardens before sitting down for afternoon tea. Later on, enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the Dungeon Bar or pop into the on-site library. 

Situated along 1,000 acres in County Monaghan, Castle Leslie Estate offers something for everyone, whether it be horseback riding and carriage rides or one-of-a-kind spa treatments (chocolate truffle body wraps, anyone?). Foodies will especially appreciate the farm-to-table cuisine at Snaffles Restaurant, as well as the homemade pastries served with afternoon tea. Meanwhile, design enthusiasts can admire the hotel's stunning furnishings, antiques, and heirlooms.

For a luxurious stay along the Wild Atlantic Way, look no further than Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal. The 1861-era castle-turned-luxury resort has 97 well-appointed rooms and suites. The best amenity here is the spa, which includes an infinity pool with floor-to-ceiling windows, a thermal suite (complete with an ice fountain, sauna, and steam room), and two couples' treatment rooms with jetted baths and steam rooms. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the fishing and biking opps here, too. 

Featuring 30 acres of private gardens and serene woodlands, an opulent oak staircase in the lobby, and stunning drawing rooms complete with cornices and marble fireplaces, a stay at Ballyseede Castle feels like a step back in time. While the County Kerry estate dates all the way back to 1590, the main castle wasn’t built until 1721. More than 300 years later, the castle has retained its historic charm — though there are also a handful of new(ish) additions, including three bars and restaurants.