Gregans Castle Hotel

100   Recommended
September 2, 2014 by EXPERT

 Map | 2 Reviews | 50% Recommended
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Gregans Castle Hotel
 Map | 2 Reviews | 50% Recommended

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Liked:
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Amenities
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Gregans Castle Hotel is an undiscovered gem in County Clare. After a morning tour of the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park, we had lunch and a site inspection at this property. Though only rated four stars, don't be fooled, as Irish star ratings depend on a check list of sometimes arbitrary criterion — for instance, a hotel must have doormen to be rated 5*, which would have been totally out of character for Gregans Castle. We received a warm personal welcome at the front door by the Director of the hotel. First, note that Gregans Castle is not a castle but a wonderful 18th century country manor house with a most restful atmosphere and views of the Burren hills and Galway Bay, and landscaped with woodland gardens. I loved the hotel the minute I stepped inside and before I experienced anything else. Second, a great, award winning restaurant whose large windows look onto the views just described. We had just the perfect lunch — a pea & Parmesan Rissoto, followed by an exquisite Dark Chocolate Truffle Cake for dessert. Third, the rooms. Overlook the lack of step-in showers, as everything else about the rooms is wonderful. Each room is unique and designed by the Director's wife, herself a talented artist. The colors are restful and the styling is tasteful. Not Virtuoso, but breakfast is included in the reasonable rates, upgrades are possible, and my clients will receive (with a two night stay) a complimentary half day walking tour of the Burren National Park led by one of the most engaging and colorful tour guides you'll ever meet. He lives right next to Gregans Castle. The hotel has warmth, personality, and beauty that is beyond my ability to express in words. Former guests include C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. If my description engages you, trust me. This is where you want to stay in County Clare.

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