Celtic aficionados across the country are reveling in the second season of HBO’s hit show Game of Thrones, particularly since much of the show is shot in Northern Ireland. But if you really want to delve into the roots of the deal there are opportunities aplenty. Book a flight to Dublin or Shannon, and bike, trek or tour Ireland. The castles are still there, although these days they come with the sort of comforts extant when Game of Thrones was something more than a television show.
Irish castles are anything but cookie-cutter. Consider:
- Ashford Castle has stood guard on the banks of Lough Corrib for the past seven centuries or so. Nestled amongst 350 acres of private woodland, this is the sort of place to let your imagination run wild. You can kick back in a manner ancient kings couldn’t even conceive. There’s a pair of restaurants on premises, and the rooms are each individually crafted.
- Dromoland Castle Hotel is a comparative newcomer. It’s but four centuries old. It too is guarded by land – 375 acres to be precise. Hunt, fish, ride or relax in an edifice that’s a mere 15 miles from Shannon Airport.
- Waterford Castle Hotel is set upon an island in the River Suir. The ambiance is that of a 15th century castle; the amenities decidedly more modern. The Waterford currently bills itself as “the only deluxe hotel in the southeast of the country.” If it’s the game of golf you’re after there’s no need to travel any farther than Waterford’s wondrous 310 acres. There’s an 18-hole championship course on the grounds.
- Steeped in history, Glin Castle Hotel has been in the FitzGerald family for over 700 years. On the banks of the River Shannon, wreathed by formal gardens and parkland, you can play the unapologetic country gentleman or gentlewoman here. Strike up a game of croquet in the gardens, plink away at clay pigeons, or test your mettle with arrow and bow. Thirsty? Near the front gate is perhaps the most traditional pub in the whole of Ireland.
May the road rise up to greet you – and watch that you drive on the correct side.
Story by Jerry Chandler
(Image: jmenard48)
