10 Luxury Hotels in Ireland that Capture the Heart of the Country

By Nicole Wiltrout
August 1, 2025
6 Min Read

Few places in Europe catch the imagination quite like Ireland. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another round of its legendary charm, the Emerald Isle welcomes you with a magical mix of storybook castles, lush green landscapes, rich history and warm hospitality. Destinations like Dublin, Killarney, Cork and Galway delight travelers of all ages, from wide-eyed kids to curious adults.

To help you make the most of your Ireland family adventure, we’ve gathered some of our favorite places to stay across the country, each offering a unique way to experience its natural beauty and distinctive charm.

A medieval stone castle with a prominent cylindrical tower and fortified walls sits on expansive green grounds against a backdrop of rolling hills. In the foreground, a calm body of water reflects the overcast sky, with white swans visible on the water's surface and tall reeds growing along the shoreline. The scene is framed by mature trees and showcases the castle's strategic positioning in what appears to be a river valley landscape. — Known for moody skies, storied ruins and an endless palette of green hues, Ireland is at the top of many family travel wish lists. Photo by Andre Ouellet on Unsplash

The Top Luxury Hotels in Ireland with Kids

From jaw-dropping cliffs to cozy historic hotels, Ireland offers something truly special for every type of family traveler. Each one promises not just a place to stay, but an experience that will become the centerpiece of your family’s travel stories.

A luxurious bedroom features a king-size bed with white linens and a large tufted beige headboard framed by dark wood and decorative arched panels. The room includes a green velvet armchair, beige leather bench at the foot of the bed, and matching bedside tables with white table lamps on dark hardwood floors. An open doorway on the left leads to an adjacent room, while neutral gray walls and crown molding complete the sophisticated interior design. — The Westbury’s P.V. Doyle Suite bedroom. Photo courtesy of Leading Hotels of the World

The Westbury, Dublin

Picture stepping into the heart of Dublin with your family, where every corner tells a story and adventure awaits just outside your hotel door. The Westbury isn’t just a hotel — it’s the perfect Dublin launching pad. Strategically located in the city center, these well-designed suites are a haven after a day of exploring. Many rooms boast private terraces overlooking Dublin’s vibrant streets, giving you a front-row seat to the city’s energy. Dining here is an event in itself, with menus that will delight parents and children alike.

Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin, Ireland — Heritage Park View King Guest Room at The Shelbourne. Photo courtesy of The Shelbourne

The Shelbourne, Dublin

Nestled in the heart of Georgian Dublin, The Shelbourne is more than a hotel; it’s a living chapter of Irish history. Dating back to 1824, this iconic property has hosted royalty, politicians and now, your family. Overlooking the lush St. Stephen’s Green, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Spacious family rooms invite relaxation, while the hotel’s location puts Dublin’s best attractions at your doorstep. Their legendary afternoon tea transforms an ordinary moment into a memory your kids will talk about for years, especially during the holidays when the hotel is decked out in its festive finery (it’s the best proper holiday tea we’ve found in Dublin so far).

A large Georgian-style brick mansion with ivy-covered walls features multiple stories, dormer windows, and prominent brick chimneys under a partly cloudy sky. The building has white-framed windows throughout and a central entrance with white columns, while several people and dogs are visible on the curved gravel courtyard in front. Mature trees and landscaping surround the property, with a bicycle positioned near the entrance area. — Photo courtesy of Hayfield Manor

Hayfield Manor, County Cork

Still family-owned, Hayfield Manor is walking distance from Cork’s highlights, yet it feels like a private country estate. With gorgeous grounds, a storied building and a welcoming atmosphere for young guests, it strikes the ideal balance between refined luxury and family-friendly comfort. Exceptional dining and a premier spa ensure that every family member feels thoroughly indulged.

A luxurious hotel suite features a bed with white linens and beige upholstered headboard alongside a blue velvet sofa with patterned throw pillows positioned around a dark wood coffee table. The room is decorated with a large landscape mural depicting mountains and countryside scenes across the walls, green curtains, and patterned drapery framing a window. A crystal chandelier with fabric lampshades hangs from the ceiling, illuminating the traditionally appointed space with crown molding and refined furnishings. — A Signature Suite at The Killarney Park. Photo courtesy of Leading Hotels of the World

The Killarney Park, County Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a bucket-list destination, and The Killarney Park is the perfect base camp. Situated in the town center with Killarney National Park at your doorstep, this property understands both family needs and the fine points of pampering. Spacious suites invite relaxation, log fires promise cozy evenings, and while parents enjoy a little downtime at the spa, children can splash in the indoor pool. It’s a special retreat where memories are crafted with care.

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An aerial view shows a large stone castle or manor house with towers and formal architectural features, surrounded by manicured formal gardens with geometric hedge patterns. The property is situated alongside a championship golf course featuring multiple holes with sand bunkers, water hazards, and lush green fairways that wind through the landscape. A river curves through the scene, while expansive countryside with fields, trees, and rolling terrain extends to the horizon under an overcast sky. — Adare Manor is set amid sprawling grounds that include a golf course. Photo courtesy of Leading Hotels of the World

Adare Manor, County Limerick

A true showstopper that embodies luxury without an ounce of stuffiness, Adare Manor will leave every family member speechless. Vaulted ceilings, marble fireplaces (yes, even in bathrooms) and enormous gardens create a backdrop of pure opulence. Listen for the sounds of children’s laughter as they run around the grounds, throw rocks in the river or splash in the indoor pool. Golf-lovers will definitely want to set up a tee time, while horse enthusiasts can saddle up and saunter off to explore the area.

An opulent bedroom features a four-poster bed with an elaborate carved canopy, floral chintz curtains, and emerald green velvet bedding. The room is decorated in a traditional English country house style with floral wallpaper, a crystal chandelier, period furniture including a chaise lounge, and large arched windows with ornate drapery. Antique furnishings, table lamps, and decorative artwork complete the luxurious interior on patterned carpeting. — The Reagan Suite at Ashford Castle. Photo courtesy of Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle, County Mayo

Prepare for a true fairytale experience! Housed in a 13th-century castle spread across 350 acres of breathtaking Irish parkland, Ashford Castle is home to a falconry school, a spa, a stunning lake, fishing, tennis and water sports, ensuring that “I’m bored” will never escape your children’s lips. Consistently ranked among the world’s best hotels, this isn’t just a place to lay your head, but an immersive Irish adventure.

Sheen Falls Ireland — The cottages at Sheen Falls offer the best of both worlds: resort amenities with privacy and space for families. Photo courtesy of Sheen Falls Lodge

Sheen Falls Lodge, County Kerry

Southwest Ireland’s beauty deserves a special home base, and Sheen Falls Lodge delivers spectacularly. Families love the thatched-roof cottages and the endless activities: golfing, hiking, horseback riding, salmon fishing, falconry, kayaking and pre-arranged picnics, for starters. Take at least one day to skip the car and simply soak in the beautiful 300-acre natural setting, or treat yourself to a massage or facial at the in-house Easanna Wellness & Spa. For a truly unforgettable experience, book a tour of Kenmare, one of the most charming towns on the Ring of Kerry, in the hotel’s 1936 vintage Buick.

We can book your luxury hotel stay with exclusive perks and amenities to pass along!

Send us a request, and we’ll pair you with an expert Travel Advisor who has access to benefits you can’t get on your own, such as complimentary upgrades, breakfast and resort credits, early check-in/late check-out, and more, all at the same rate you’d enjoy if you booked directly. Click to get started.

Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate, County Galway

County Galway represents Ireland at its most authentic, and Glenlo Abbey Hotel captures this essence perfectly with its lakeside location and historic charm across 138 acres. Active families will love the variety of outdoor experiences, but the true showstopper is dining aboard vintage Orient Express train carriages in the Pullman Restaurant, a culinary adventure that feels like traveling through time. Those looking to explore farther afield can easily get into the city of Galway in about 10 minutes by car.

A stone castle with a prominent round tower and crenellated walls sits amid landscaped grounds, with a multi-story manor building extending from the main structure. The foreground features overgrown vegetation including tall grasses and red flowering plants, while mature trees frame the scene on the left side. The sky shows a mix of white clouds and blue areas above the building and surrounding green lawns. — Tucked amid wooded parkland, Dromoland Castle has a storybook air. Photo courtesy of Dromoland Castle

Dromoland Castle, County Clare

If fairytales were real, they would look exactly like Dromoland Castle. Spread across 450 acres of pristine Irish countryside, this 16th-century castle transforms family travel into a magical narrative. Children’s eyes will light up with activities like archery, clay pigeon shooting, horseback riding and falconry lessons. Parents can enjoy the 18-hole golf course, spa and gourmet dining while the kids live out their medieval fantasies.

Pro Travel Tips for Ireland Family Vacations

Book accommodations well in advance, especially during the peak summer season (and St. Patrick’s Day).
Pack layers! Irish weather can be wonderfully unpredictable: raining in the morning, sunny by lunch and a bit chilly by dinner
Rent a car to explore beyond city centers; it’s the only way to get to some of the most beautiful places in the countryside.
Engage with local storytellers — Irish history comes alive through personal narratives.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Ireland on Ciao Bambino

A perfect 10-day Ireland itinerary with kids

10 things to do in Ireland off the beaten path

Favorite places to visit in Ireland with kids

5 beautiful places to explore the untamed wilderness in Ireland

72 hours in Dublin with kids

Best things to do in Cork, Ireland with kids

A Galway itinerary packed with Irish adventure for all ages

Keryn Means and Cary Walker Collett contributed to this article.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.

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10 Luxury Hotels in Ireland that Capture the Heart of the Country