The eight best hotels in Ireland for summer activities

Summer is on the horizon and if you haven’t planned your break yet, now is the time.

With a collection of luxurious hotels to choose from, Ireland’s Blue Book has something for everyone! With a range of activities and experiences to choose from, make your summer holiday more than just a holiday.

Interest in history

Discover your inner historian by staying in a decadent period building. Whether it’s the regency period or a Norman keep, Ireland’s Blue Book have an option for you.

Belleek Castle, Co Mayo

Combine luxury with history, lounge in your four-poster bed, dine in the Library Restaurant and relax in extraordinary surroundings, all the while learning about the fascinating collection curated by the Doran family. From fossils to a medieval armoury, the museum in Belleek Castle is not to be missed. This historic castle is the ultimate location for your unique summer getaway.

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Butler House, Co Kilkenny

Kilkenny is a must visit for any history fan, the medieval town centre comprises the medieval mile, proudly linking 13th century St Canice’s Cathedral to the Anglo-Norman Kilkenny Castle. With a host of tours to choose from, and stories of witchcraft to bewilder, Kilkenny is hub of interest. Butler House is the Dower House of Kilkenny Castle, built in 1786. This hotel is the ideal base to discover the town and also the perfect home for historical enthusiasts.

Walking holiday

Ireland is full of beautiful scenery, with breathtaking landscapes around every corner, you might want to take your time when taking it all in. A wonderful way to ensure you embrace its full beauty, is to do walking routes of the country.

Cashel House, Co Galway

The house sits overlooking the coast as Cashel hill stands tall in the background, Cashel House is the ideal escape to the countryside. With a number of natural spectacles to absorb on your walk, this holiday won’t disappoint. The house is set on 50 acres of gardens and woodland so you can stay local, view the grounds or venture towards Cashel Hill and the Fishing Lake. Rain or shine, there is nothing better than returning from a walk than being greeted by open fires. Settle yourself in for the evening with delicious food and views of the bay.

Rathmullan House, Co Donegal

Donegal is a hugely undiscovered part of Ireland. With stretches of cliffs and sea that dazzle any traveller, the theatrics of the most northern part of the country are undeniable. With two kilometres of sandy beaches on the doorstep of Rathmullan House, you needn’t travel far to enjoy a leisurely walk. Other options include House Ards Forest Park, Creeslough and Glenveagh National Park. Rathmullan House is a wonderful place to relax after your adventures, nestle into the comfortable rooms, warm up by open fires or even take a dip in their indoor heated pool.

Fishing

Ireland has always been highly rated for its fishing. With an array of locations to choose from, and a choice of different styles of fishing, why not enjoy a rewarding fishing excursion this summer?

Carrig Country House, Co Kerry

Situated on the shores of Caragh Lake, Carrig House is a wonderful base to bunker down. With views of the awe-inspiring Ring of Kerry, you can sit inside and marvel over the potential catch below. With some of the best salmon and trout waters in Ireland, and miles of rivers and lakes, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Sea-coast and deep-sea fishing options are only a stone’s throw away on the Kerry coast – without a doubt some of the finest fishing in Ireland.

Delphi Lodge, Co Galway

Have you ever fancied fishing but not sure where to start? You can avail of Delphi Lodge’s very own Fly-fishing school. For years Delphi has been a popular destination for fly fishermen and it was formerly the sporting playground of the Marquis of Sligo. What better way to be introduced to fly-fishing than learning on location. After an educational day out, you can retire to your cosy room in Delphi Lodge, a beautiful Georgian country house with a glorious lakeside setting, fine cuisine and great atmosphere.

Equestrian options

Ireland is world renowned for its equestrian pursuits, so why not take advantage of this ancient tradition by combining your summer break with some horseback adventures, in one of our magnificent period properties.

Castle Leslie, Co Monaghan

Still in the hands of the original family, Castle Leslie is a truly unique getaway. You have a choice of staying in the castle itself, with authentic interiors, or the Lodge, a boutique country house hotel, right next to the stables, the perfect location to discover on horseback. You are welcome to bring your own horse to the grounds or take one of the resident horses, like Bumble, out for a trot. Welcoming riders from aged seven upwards, Castle Leslie caters for all experience levels. Ancient woodlands and glittering lakes await, the estate offers an idyllic setting for outdoor activity and adventure.

Mount Juliet, Co Kilkenny

MJ Equestrian at Mount Juliet Estate offers a whole range of experiences for horse lovers, novices and experienced riders. Maybe you wish to explore the estate with your family on a private trail ride, led by one of the experienced guides. How about a sunrise or sunset ride through Mount Juliet Estate? Or perhaps you’d simply like to come and meet the magnificent horses that call Mount Juliet home. A guided tour of the MJ Equestrian Centre will reveal life behind the scenes in the state-of-the-art stables, show jumping arenas and tack room, while you get up close and personal with the resident stallions and mares.