5 Hidden Gems // 5- Star Hotel Edition
Restored castles, estates, and private lodges… Ireland and Scotland have much to offer when it comes to 5-star stays. Here’s our offerings on some of the best hidden gems.
The Torridon Hotel looks out on a snowcapped Beinn Alligin mountain range.
The Lodge at Ashford Castle, Ireland
Irish country-house charm… Within the magnificent 350-acre estate of Ashford Castle, overlooking magical Lough Corrib.
Located on the banks of Lough Corrib, The Lodge at Ashford Castle is a luxurious and serene hotel set in a breathtaking castle surrounded by over 350 acres of lush greenery. This hotel offers guests a range of world-class facilities, including a spa, fitness center, and golf course. With its elegant interiors and breathtaking views, it is no wonder that The Lodge at Ashford Castle is a favorite among travelers.
2. The Torridon, Scotland
Set in 58 acres of parkland at the end of a magnificent sea loch, The Torridon has one of the most spectacular and idyllic locations in the country.
The Torridon is a hidden gem for those looking for a truly unforgettable 5-star stay. Nestled in the heart of Scotland's stunning West Highlands, this luxury hotel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lochs. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. The hotel's restaurant serves up delicious cuisine, featuring the freshest local ingredients, while the spa offers a range of treatments to help you relax and unwind. With activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching available on site, there's plenty to keep you entertained during your stay. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, the Torridon is a great choice for anyone seeking a truly luxurious experience in Scotland's beautiful countryside.
3. Ballyfin, County Laois, Ireland
Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the centre of Ireland, Ballyfin is a place of history and romance, of tranquility and great natural beauty.
Ballyfin is a luxurious 5-star hotel that's set in a restored 19th-century estate in Ireland's countryside. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with antique furnishings and luxurious linens. The hotel's restaurant serves up delicious cuisine, featuring the freshest local ingredients, while the spa offers an array of treatments to help you relax and unwind. Ballyfin also has a beautiful pool and tennis court, making it an ideal destination for families or those looking to stay active.
4. Skibo Castle, Scotland
In a secluded corner of the Northern Highlands lies Skibo Castle, Scotland's best kept secret. Industrialist Andrew Carnegie, one of history's greatest philanthropists, came to Skibo in 1898 and transformed the estate into what he rightly termed 'Heaven on Earth'.
Skibo Castle is a luxurious hotel set in a 12th-century castle surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. This hotel offers guests a range of world-class facilities, including a spa, golf course, and fine dining restaurant. With its elegant interiors and breathtaking views, Skibo Castle is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Scotland.
5. Adare Manor, Ireland
840 acres of pristine parkland, a Michelin star restaurant, a stunning golf course, and a state-of-the-art spa. It’s prestige without pretense and magic without nonsense.
Located in the charming village of Adare, Adare Manor is a luxurious hotel set in a stunning 18th-century manor house surrounded by over 840 acres of lush greenery. This hotel offers guests a range of world-class facilities, including a spa, golf course, and fine dining restaurant. With its elegant interiors and breathtaking views, Adare Manor is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Ireland.
In conclusion, Ireland and Scotland are home to some of the world's most luxurious and picturesque hotels. Whether you are looking for a peaceful escape or an adventure-filled vacation, these five hidden gem 5-star hotels are sure to leave a lasting impression.