Irish experiences you won't find online

Listen to a private bagpipe performance.

Whether it’s lunching with a lord, a private art gallery tour or shucking oysters on a beach with a fisherman, a host of ‘unGoogleable’ experiences await on a luxury Irish getaway.

The internet can tell you lots about a luxury holiday on Ireland, but once you arrive there you will soon discover there are so many unique experiences that simply don’t show up in the search engines.

Live like royalty

Offering top-of-the-line services, gourmet dining and utterly unique things to do, Irish castle hotels are the ultimate in sheer luxury and indulgence, be it in a room for two, a presidential suite, a state room or the exclusive hire of the entire property for family and friends.

Crom-Castle, County Fermanagh is one castle turned hotel you can stay at.

 Whether you’re looking for spa rest and relaxation, classic country pursuits, historic sights and cities, scenic Ireland or all of the above, you will be treated like royalty at the likes of Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ballynahinch Castle in County Galway or Dromoland Castle in County Clare, all among the most desired destinations in Europe.For those who like go it alone luxury, the stunning Crom Castle in the lakelands of County Fermanagh offers its complete West Wing for rent, and if you need more space, the entire castle is also available for hire. 

Ballyfin Castle has been restored to its previous excellence.

Your stay can be self-catering, or if you would like your food served, a cook can be provided. For a yet more exclusive experience, you can have afternoon tea with John Crichton, the 7th Earl of Erne and Baron of Fermanagh, or even spend your whole holiday with him as the host of your stay at his family's ancestral seat.

Garden at Lough Eske is a joy to walk through.

Ireland’s luxury destinations can customise your stay with the utmost creativity and discretion. Or you can easily create your own itinerary, or have one designed according to your interest.

For example: Forage for food with a local permaculture expert and then cook what’s been gathered with the head chef of the lavish Adare Manor in County Limerick.

Ashford Castle, junior suite

Rub shoulders with authors, historians and television personalities that epitomise the essence of Ireland, or delve into the Wild Atlantic Way to experience the meaty Connemara Oysters of Ballinakill Bay.

From meeting a leading fashion designer, coastal picnics beside a shipwreck and private tours of hit film and TV show locations, travel designers such as Adams & Butler can provide luxury Irish experiences totally unique to you.

Information and some courtesy of Tourism Ireland www.ireland.com  Other photos by Beverly Burmeier