This is on of the MrFiveStar Christmas Suggestions. The 13th Century Ashford Castle is set on the northern shores of Lough Corrib, a half an hour from the medieval city of Galway on the West Coast of Ireland , amidst acres of beautiful gardens and forests. Once the country estate of the Guinness family, it was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1939. The great hall is lavishly decorated with rich panelling, fine period pieces, 

objets d’art and masterpiece paintings. All guest rooms are appointed with style and refinement and many feature high ceilings & delightful lake or river views, all of which signatures Ashford Castle. 

The hotel offers a full range of country sports, including falconry, fishing on Lough Corrib, clay pigeon shooting, horseback riding, an exclusive 9-hole golf course, and a modern health centre comprising of a whirlpool, sauna, steam room, fully equipped gymnasium and lake view conservatory. The Formal Gardens are restored, there are incredible walks along the Lakeshore and one in particular leads to the Chalet – built by Lord and Lady Ardilaun of the Guinness Family in the late 1800’s. On his death, Lady Ardilaun erected an obelisk to his memory on which bears the inscription: Rien ne m’est plus; Plus ne m’est rien (Nothing remains to me any longer, anything that remains means nothing) Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall Ashford Castle and its grounds continues to play cupid to couples from around the globe. Click here to go directly to Ashford Castle Ireland website. This is a great site.

Check the website for current specials.