Waterford Castle Hotel, Ireland is a genuine Irish Castle turned luxury hotel barely 10 minutes out of the centre of the busy town of Waterford - and yes this is where the famous Waterford Crystal comes from.

Waterford Castle is located on an island in the estuary of the River Suir, about 2 miles downstream from Waterford, the largest city in South East Ireland. The castle is accessed by a 5 minute ferry ride.  Waterford city can be reached from the either Dublin or Cork in a little over 2 hours. Even the west coast international gateway of Shannon airport is only 100 miles or 3.5 hours driving time from Waterford. Ireland is compact and easy to get around, though you do need to remember to drive on the left.

Waterford Castle is a genuinely 800-year old castle so if you prefer your hotel to be up-to-date and squeaky clean then you might prefer to check in somewhere else. If you are looking for romance and history then this top-class boutique castle may be the spot for your next vacation.

The castle only accommodates a maximum of 38 guests with 19 period bedrooms, accommodating, including The Presidential Suite, 4 Deluxe Four Poster Suites and 14 Double/Twin Rooms each with private bath. History comes complete with modern amenities, a nightly turn down service, bathrobes, hairdryers, bottled mineral water and deluxe toiletries.

Dining options include the award winning Munster Dining Room with with its original oak panelled walls and ornate ceilings. The menu showcases the best of Irish fresh food particularly game, venison, lamb and seafood.

There is a lighter menu and a less formal atmosphere in the Fitzgerald Room, better known as the “lounge”. A light menu including is available as as well as a full bar service. The log fire makes the room cosy even in the bleakest of Irish weather.

You should also check the Front Hall, in the oldest part of the castle, which offers an oak panelling and 17th century tapestry backdrop for your afternoon tea of pastries and scones.

If your interests run to golf you may well choose to stay at the Waterford to try out their championship golf course. The course claims to be Ireland’s only genuine island golf resort. Designed by Des Smyth, former Ryder Cup player, and opened in 1992, this 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course, complete with luxurious clubhouse, leads you through mature woodland and parkland.

The location of Waterford Castle makes it a good base to explore local landmarks such as the 9th century Ardmore Cathedral. There are also opportunities for locally arranged horse trekking, fishing, hill walking, and clay pigeon shooting. Maybe not the flashiest of luxury destination hotels, but unique and charming Waterford Castle Hotel is worth a look. And if you are interested in castles, there is a detailed look at luxury real estate - castles for sale here.