Hotel Highlight: Adare Manor - Ireland

Where timeless elegance meets modern Irish luxury.

By Anne Marie Brown

I recently had the privilege of revisiting a place that holds a very special place in my heart, Adare Manor. Growing up, I often visited the grand Irish estate with my parents, who were close friends of the family that originally owned the hotel for generations. Over the years, I’ve watched Adare Manor evolve and expand into one of Ireland’s most extraordinary five-star resorts — yet it continues to feel, at its core, like a warm and welcoming family home.

A Legacy of Beauty and Impact

Set along the River Maigue near Waterford, Ireland, Adare Manor is a five-star castle resort that is a living piece of Irish history. The magnificent Neo-Gothic estate you see today began as a labor of love in 1832, when the 2nd Earl of Dunraven and his wife, Lady Caroline Wyndham, transformed their Georgian-style family home into an architectural masterpiece inspired by Europe’s great cathedrals and stately homes.

At a time when Ireland was suffering through the Great Famine, the construction of Adare Manor provided meaningful employment for local villagers, turning a grand personal vision into a profound act of community care. The result, three decades in the making, is a storybook estate adorned with formal French gardens, Ogham Stones dating back to the 5th century, and over 840 acres of sweeping parkland.

Modern Grandeur with Historic Soul

Today, Adare Manor stands as one of Ireland’s most celebrated five-star castle resorts, honored with Forbes Five-Star status, three Michelin Keys, and home to the Michelin-starred Oak Room restaurant. Guests can choose from 103 elegantly appointed rooms or a selection of luxury lodges and cottages, perfect for families and multigenerational travelers seeking privacy and space just a short stroll from the main house.

On the estate, you can choose from a portfolio of different experiences and amenities —from the world-class La Mer Spa and incredible indoor pool at the new Padel Club, to falconry experiences, horse-drawn carriage rides, trout fishing, and the estate’s championship golf course, which will host the 2027 Ryder Cup. Families are welcomed warmly, with townhouse-style lodge accommodations or interconnecting rooms, a daily Disney movie screening, and enchanting woodland fairy trails to explore.

Throughout the year, Adare Manor transforms with the rhythms of the seasons. The estate comes alive with festive décor during the holidays, Easter celebrations, and Halloween installations, each offering a touch of whimsy and wonder that delights guests of all ages.

Experience the Magic

For travelers seeking the best luxury resort in Ireland, Adare Manor offers a rare combination of history, beauty, and heart. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or an unforgettable celebration, this five-star castle hotel delivers a world-class experience you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

Reach out to annemarie@alpenglowtravel.com to book your stay and receive VIP perks during your stay.