Deals of the day
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort is set on an enchanted 310-acre Private Island, accessible via a short crossing on the resort’s private car ferry over the King’s Channel. A jewel in Ireland’s Ancient East, the Island Resort offers the very best of Irish hospitality on the most beautiful and spacious surroundings imaginable.
Our historic 16th Century luxury Castle hotel combines the gracious living of an elegant past with every modern comfort and conveyance. With just nineteen bedrooms, Waterford Castle is the ideal place for an intimate getaway, or to take over exclusively for a special celebration.
In addition to the Castle hotel, the Island Resort offers 45 three and four bedroom self-catering lodges. The Island lodges are ideal for golfing parties, groups and families.
The perfect place for a break from the stresses of the modern world, we offer privacy, space and discretion that only an Island can. Relax on the private patio and explore the natural surroundings of the private Island Resort.
The best restaurant in Waterford: Our Castle’s Munster Room Restaurant holds 2-AA Rosettes. Under the direction of the Resort’s Head Chef, the award winning culinary team create truly memorable fine dining and informal dining experiences.
The restaurants original oak panelled walls, ornate ceilings and Waterford Crystal chandeliers create an atmospheric backdrop to an exquisite dining experience. Relax and enjoy an aperitif in our Fitzgerald Bar, which houses the finest Irish whiskey collection and comprehensive wine cellar.
The Island Resort boasts an 18 hole, par-72 Championship Golf Course, accompanied by a driving range, short game area, Pro-Shop and Kings Channel Clubhouse. The Clubhouse offers a range of informal dining options, from breakfast and dinner to family BBQs in the summer.
Whether you are a master at golf, a croquet enthusiast, a clay pigeon top-class shooter, a pro tennis player or a keen walker, we offer a numerous range of breathtaking outdoor activities.
Located just ten minutes from Waterford City, and ninety minutes from Dublin and Cork airport, Waterford Castle Hotel in Ireland, is a destination not to be missed.
History
Throughout the centuries, the Island’s strategic location, in a pivotal position near Waterford City, brought it historical fame playing a major role in the history of the region.
From the 6th century settlement of Monks to the Vikings in the 9th – 11th Centuries. Followed by Norman Invasion of 1170 were Maurice Fitzgerald became the potentate of the Island and the Fitzgerald family legacy lasted for over 800 years.
Steeped in Irish history, the site of Waterford Castle settled from ancient times, was ancestral home of the Fitzgerald Family for 800 years this enchanting Island surrounded by the River Suir, was fashioned by nature, sheltered and secure.
With the change of ownership in March 2015 the Castle has undergone an extensive refurbishment. The owner & his team are breathing new life into the resort, from creating Island walkways to restoring the 16th century Castle hotel, Waterford.
They’re also busy redecorating the 45 self catering lodges & the King’s Channel Club house. While maintaining the Castle’s integrity from repointing the exterior stonework to refurbishments of the interior rooms, and adding new elements of luxuries.
The refurbishment encompasses the restoration of the priceless antiques to their previous glory, reupholstering the items of historic value and procuring new period décor, with each addition decided by the Castle as it dictates what it will allow into it’s great halls & rooms.
Ongoing refurbishment & restoration are planned for the Island Resort with the restoration of the extensive farm buildings & a new spa opening in the near future.
CASTLE ROOMS & SUITES
Our luxury 16th Century Castle is Ireland’s only Island Castle hotel, make it one of the most iconic Irish Castles. Find yourself transported to a different world with each of our beautifully appointed guestrooms; each one offering gracious style combined with all the modern comforts you might expect of a world class hotel establishment.
PRESIDENTIAL SUITE
Fit for a King & Queen of the Castle the Presidential Suite offers an old world style and luxury on a grand scale. Lavishly decorated with antique furnishings, presidential paintings, Waterford Crystal chandeliers & Waterford Crystal lamps and an intricately carved grand four poster bed. You may never want to leave…
DELUXE SUITES
Our Deluxe Suites are individually decorated with no two alike, with opulent furnishings and period decor, will take you back in time to the old world style. Each suite has numerous windows with spectacular views of the grounds, hundred year old trees and our wildlife.
The living room provides the perfect haven for an afternoon of relaxation or embroidery, as it was the embroidery room back in the day. Each suite is rich in history, style and comfort.
Lodges
The Island Resort offers 45 family friendly modern, self catering lodges in Waterford, Ireland. Each lodge sleeps six people with three double bedrooms.
The self catering lodges are the perfect location for families, golf trips, corporate gatherings or even a ladies destination with afternoon tea available during your stay (subject to availability).
The lodges are a very comfortable vacation home in Waterford for a family of six, each room offering double beds and a pull out couch for little ones to avail of. Our Lodge guests can avail of all the Island has to offer, including Castle dining, or the bistro style menu and takeaway options at the King’s Channel Club house.
Waterford Castle is among the best hotels with self catering Ireland has to offer, with a wide variety of things to see and do right on your doorstep, including the Waterford Greenway, House of Waterford Crystal and UNESCO Copper Coast.
Dining
Dining at Waterford Castle provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine.
Whether you choose a casual lunch overlooking our championship golf course in King’s Channel Clubhouse, sample our Castle’s famous Afternoon Tea, or our award winning fine dining experience in the warm ambience of the Munster Room Restaurant, you can be assured of a mouth-watering meal crafted using only the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Our Munster Room restaurant is critically acclaimed and holder of 2-AA Rosettes. Under the direction of Group Executive Chef Michael Thomas, the award winning culinary team continually create dishes with intense flavors that tantalize and satisfy every food lover’s palate and create a truly memorable fine dining experience.
Munster Room Restaurant
Dining at the Munster Room Restaurant in Waterford Castle provides an opportunity to taste the best of traditional and contemporary Irish cuisine just minutes drive from Waterford City.
The award winning Munster Room Restaurant in Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort has been awarded many accolades, from 2 AA Rosettes to most recently a place on McKenna’s 100 Best Restaurants 2019.
Under the direction of our Group Executive Chef Michael Thomas, our award-winning culinary team use only the finest local produce from around County Waterford to continually create dishes with intense flavors that will tantalize and satisfy every food lover’s palate.
A meal in the Munster Room, one of the best Restaurants in Waterford, is a truly memorable fine dining experience, while the Fitzgerald Bar offers a range of drinks including signature cocktails, premium whiskeys and an extensive wine bar.
The Munster Room is ideally located on the private resort at Waterford Castle, accessible by exclusive resort ferry and minutes’ drive from the historic Viking Triangle in Waterford City Centre to the west and just over 30 mins from the idyllic village of Dunmore East.
Afternoon Tea
A long standing tradition here, Waterford Castle Afternoon Tea is a truly unique experience. Enjoyed in the elegant surrounds of our luxury 16th Century Castle located on its very own 310-acre Private Island, the experience begins as you board our complimentary Resort Ferry.
Located just 10 minutes from Waterford City Centre, Waterford Castle is truly a hidden gem for Afternoon Tea in Ireland. At Waterford Castle we take pride in serving one of the best Afternoon Tea in Ireland.
We believe that Afternoon Tea is the perfect way to take some time out from the busy world around you, and to truly relax and indulge.
This year has seen many of us unable to meet our family and friends, and we hope our Afternoon Tea can provide you with some precious time together in a warm and inviting setting to do what the Irish do best – sit and chat over a hot cup of tea!
Our Afternoon Tea Gift Vouchers are available to purchase online, over the phone and at reception. They make an ideal treat for someone you miss, and a promise of a wonderful reunion when the time comes. As the Winter gets darker, it is so important to have something to look forward to in the near future!
Our Afternoon Tea consists of three courses – warm scones served with clotted cream and preserves, savory items such as sandwiches, and an array of desserts, served with a selection of teas or coffee. Our Cream Tea is a lighter option, consisting of pastries alongside tea or coffee.
All our handmade Afternoon Tea treats are prepared daily with care and precision by our talented team of Pastry Chefs onsite in our Pastry Kitchen.
We take pride in sourcing and using the finest local ingredients from around Waterford and Ireland, and our menu changes seasonally to make the best of fresh and in-season produce.
King’s Channel Clubhouse
Relax and enjoy the surroundings of the King’s Channel Clubhouse, overlooking the first tee of our 18-hole championship golf course.
The Clubhouse offers an informal casual dining menu that caters for all tastes – from light snacks to memorable evening meals, and family favourites such as pizza (also available to take-away). Specific dietary requirements such as vegetarians, vegans and gluten free can also be catered for.
The Clubhouse has a full bar with a range of drinks including wine, beer, whiskies and more. The Clubhouse offers barista coffees (also available to-go) and treats such as scones, cakes and bespoke desserts – all handmade by the Pastry Chefs on the Island.
Golfers can enjoy a drink and snack before heading out on the course, or relax and replenish after a round with a freshly prepared meal. The Clubhouse can also cater for golfing groups and outings.
During the summer the Clubhouse offers outdoor dining on picnic benches, live music on selected nights and the ever-popular BBQ Night on Thursday evenings.
The Clubhouse offers a relaxed atmosphere and is suitable for families, with high chairs and a kids menu available. There is also a small play area outside that children can use. The Clubhouse also offers sports broadcasts on a 65 inch television, including golf coverage, GAA matches and Irish rugby and football games.
Fitzgerald Bar
The Fitzgerald Room Bar, with its Waterford Crystal chandelier and ornate antiques, offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy the fine Irish Whiskey collection and an extensive wine cellar.
A destination for any time of the day, choose from drinks or including a la carte lunch. With an impressive and exciting selection of cocktails, wine by the glass, remarkable spirits and champagne, the inviting ambiance is ideal for a relaxing evening drink in luxurious vintage surroundings.
Enjoy a cocktail made by one of Ireland’s champion mixologists, with signature creations available year-round. A long-standing tradition here at Waterford Castle, Afternoon Tea can be enjoyed in the elegant surrounds of the Fitzgerald Room, the Leinster Room, the Munster Room or the Conservatory.
Special Occasions
You could scarcely find a finer venue to enjoy hospitality in the company of friends or family, colleagues or clients. Located on a private Island, yet just minutes from Waterford City centre, the Waterford Castle Resort provides an ideal blend of the extraordinary and convenience.
Weddings
Waterford Castle Hotel and Golf Resort is uniquely situated on a private 310 acre Island, enjoying a truly picturesque and enchanting location on the River Suir close to Waterford City.
Our guests enjoy exclusive use of the Castle & its 19 uniquely designed bedrooms of distinct character & charm, featuring traditional fabrics and exquisite furnishings. At Waterford Castle we can cater for a maximum of 120 Guests.
Whether you are dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, your wedding will be tailored to reflect your personal preferences.
With a wedding at Waterford Castle you can rest assured you will be in good hands as our Wedding Co-Ordinator Gillian won Wedding Planner of the Year 2020 at the Irish Hotel Awards.
Civil Ceremonies
Waterford Castle Hotel is a magical location in which to hold your private civil ceremony, civil partnership, vow renewal, commitment ceremony or wedding blessing.
Where better to exchange your vows than in the grand entrance hall of the 16th century castle, in front of the stunning open fireplace in the company of close family & friends or outside in our extensive grounds.
Age old hospitality and a reputation for exceptional service, coupled with a truly unique location makes Waterford Castle the ideal venue for an unforgettable Wedding Day. Whether your dream day is small & intimate or something more extravagant, Waterford Castle is the perfect setting in which to say ‘I do’.
Legal civil ceremonies can be hosted seven days a week and our experienced staff are always on hand to advise and guide you through all of the alternatives when hosting your ceremony on The Island.
Golf
Ireland’s only true island golf course, surrounded by the River Suir and accessible by complimentary car ferry. Waterford Castle Golf Resorts & Club (WCGC) enjoys idyllic seclusion located minutes from Waterford city centre, 90 mins from Dublin and Cork.
The 18-hole par 72 Des Smyth designed course is located on a 310-acre private island. The 6814-yard course covers an area of over 200 acres on the Island Resort, with parkland and woodland areas including numerous scenic and strategically challenging features.
The 45 self-catering Island Lodges are the perfect golf getaway resorts in Ireland, catering to groups & families (sleeps six – 3 double bedrooms + sofa bed), while the Island’s 16th Century Castle offers 19 luxurious bedrooms. A range of dining options are available at the King’s Channel Clubhouse and the Castle’s 2-AA Rosette Munster Room Restaurant.
Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort, named Golf Hotel of the Year 2020 by the Irish Hotel Awards, and shortlisted for Ireland’s Best Golf Hotel 2021 by the World Golf Awards.
Facilities
Waterford Castle is a luxury island resort covering 310 acres with 18 Hole, par 72 Championship Golf Course. Designed by the renowned former Ryder Cup player and vice-captain Des Smith, this 18-hole, par 72 championship golf course, utilizes the natural landscape of the Island.
Set amongst 200 acres of splendid woodlands with water playing a pivotal role on numerous holes, Waterford Castle offers a challenge for all levels of golfers.
Driving Range
Waterford Castle Golf Resort offers a year round driving range facility with two covered bays and one teaching bay with floodlight facilities.
Set adjacent to the Clubhouse, and amongst some of the tallest Oak trees on the island, the range offers the perfect tranquil setting in which to learn new skills from our experienced PGA Professional or in preparation in taking to the fairways.
9 Hole Putting Green
Additionally, a 9 hole putting green is available for use in front of the club house; completed to the same standard of the golf course.
Golf Pro Shop
The Golf Pro Shop is open daily for all your golfing needs; stocking leading brands of clothing and golfing equipment. Our highly qualified staff will assist you with any request you may have regarding your golfing equipment.
The staff are also well aware of the latest trends and fashion both on and off the golf course and are happy to assist you, ensuring you look good on the golf course – no matter how you play.
Rental equipment is also available at the proshop with everything from Rental Sets, Buggy Hire and electric trolley’s available for hire. We recommend to book in advance.
Golf Clubhouse
The Kings Channel Clubhouse at Waterford Castle Golf Club is a great place to begin your game by fueling up your body and mind with some of our chefs fantastic treats and the perfect place to relax and unwind after their game with a tea or coffee or something stronger. Full locker room facilities are available for both members & guests.
The Clubhouse also offers a meeting room and dining options for up to 100 guests serving some of the finest local produce. Perfect for a corporate, group, society or wedding party.
Island Resort
Discover a wide range exciting things to do during your stay at Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort. Whether you are a master at golf, a croquet enthusiast, a clay pigeon top-class shooter or a keen tennis player, we offer a numerous range of outdoor activities at Waterford Castle Hotel.
Take a relaxing stroll along the Island gardens and Castle lawns to admire the gorgeous views. Catch a glimpse of wildlife such as our Sika deer while exploring around the enchanting island in Waterford.
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Perfect your aim, time your shots & let your competitive streak shine with our Clay Pigeon Shooting experience on the private island at Waterford Castle. Clay shooting in Waterford hotel & Castle Resort is expertly brought to you by Mick our Irish guide, who brings both skill and laughter to every activity.
Clay shooting is a great activity for small or large groups and one of our most popular recreations here on the Island. A thrilling sport, clay pigeon shooting is an ideal activity if you wish to learn a new skill and have some fun.
Whether you are a novice or experienced, take advantage of the tuition available at the Island Resort which caters to all levels of expertise and ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.
Falconry
Even before recorded history, our ancestors flew birds of prey. From the steppes of Asia to medieval Europe, from 5000 yrs ago to the present day, Falconry Experience has become a way of life for Falconers around the world. Waterford Castle Ireland offer you the opportunity to privately fly a trained hawk on our beautiful grounds.
Guided by the expert falconers from Hawkeye Falconry Ireland, this is an experience of a lifetime.
To book simply choose your preferred experience and contact info@hawkeyefalconry.ie, or call 0830039743 / 0860589300.
Discount for large groups.
Private Falconry Experience
Your Private Falconry skill will begin with an introduction to the Hawk you are about to fly.Our falconer will brief you on a 5000 year history of the ancient art of falconry.You will set off on a walk as your hawk follows you, watching your every move.
Your falconer will teach you how to recall the hawk from the tree tops to your gloved hand and send him back to the trees again. During the walk, your falconer will work with you to ensure you get some amazing photo and video opportunities as you call the hawk several times to your gloved hand.
To finish up your falconry experience you will be introduced to one or possibly two of our owls.As you fly the owl, your falconer will teach you about the species and their habitat.The owls are super cute, very photogenic and they do love an owl selfie!
Day Trips
In addition to the plethora of local attractions, Waterford Castle Resort is also an ideal base for full or half day trips to nearby counties.
Historic Kilkenny town is just an hours drive North and is well-known for it’s versatile attractions including the Kilkenny Castle and Gardens, Smithwicks Brewery Experience and Medieval Mile Museum.
To the East, Wexford is home to exciting features such as Hook Lighthouse, the oldest working lighthouse in the world, and Loftus Hall, one of Ireland’s most infamous haunted houses. To the west, Cork is full of colourful towns and scenic areas, including Cobh and the amazing Spike Island.
Waterford Attractions
Located just minutes drive from Waterford City Centre, there are lots of things to do near Waterford Castle Resort. The private Island boasts an ideal location for exploring the many attractions around Waterford and surrounding areas of Ireland’s Ancient East.
Keep reading to find out some of our top recommendations and highlights, based on local staff knowledge and positive feedback from our past guests.
Staff Picks
Mahon Falls and the Comeragh Mountains
This picturesque walk is suitable for all ages and fitness levels due to a nearby carpark, however adventure seekers and experienced hikers can do a longer route. The Mahon waterfall and walk allows for scenic mountain views, and you might be lucky enough to see some sheep and goats!
Anne Valley Scenic Walk
This peaceful walk is one of Waterford’s hidden gems, featuring marshland and views of the ruins of Dunhill Castle. You might spot some fairy doors along the way too….. The walk is very accessible with benches dotted along the way, and is suitable for most wheelchairs and prams/buggy’s.
Activate – Recommended by Valerija (Reception)
As a mother, Valerija knows all too well how difficult it can be to keep children entertained, especially in the changeable Irish weather. She recommends Activate – an indoor family fun centre with activities such as bowling, mini golf, roller skating, laser tag and more. Perfect for those rainy days and only a 5 minute drive from the Island Resort.
Hook Lighthouse – Recommended by Philippa (Marketing)
This iconic Irish attraction is actually located in neighbouring Wexford, where Philippa is from. The drive is itself an adventure, taking in the nearby Passage East Car Ferry (a little bigger than our own Mary Fitzgerald!) and stunning coastline views. Hook Lighthouse is the oldest working lighthouse in the world and is open for tours. Hook is about 45mins drive from the Resort
Inistioge – Recommended by Sarah (Reception)
Pronounced “in-ish-tee-guh” – this small village in nearby Kilkenny has a lot to offer. Kilkenny native Sarah enjoys going for the lakeside walks, and Woodstock Gardens and historic Jerpoint Abbey are also closeby. The village is about 40 mins drive from the Resort
Waterford Crystal
The world famous glass factory and tourist attraction remains the most popular attraction with our guests.
Tramore
This small seaside town on the scenic Copper Coast is a firm family favourite, and located just 20mins drive from the Resort. The town features a Blue Flag Beach with a number of surf schools, an amusement park (open seasonally), an indoor swimming pool with a fun aqua park and stunning cliffside walks.
While there, we recommend to eat at our new sister property One the Waterfront, offering beach access, a spacious outdoor terrace, panoramic sea views and an informal atmosphere.
Waterford Greenway
Opened quite recently in 2017, the magnificent 46km route has quickly become one of the most popular attractions in Ireland’s Ancient East. The impressive route takes in tunnels, historic viaducts and seaside views. There are a number of bike rental companies in Waterford City, our reception team are happy to assist.
Mount Congreve
These extensive gardens are home to one of the largest collections of plants in Ireland. The gardens have over 16km of walkways with curiosities such as a Chinese Pagoda and a Greek-style temple, and over 3,000 different varieties of trees and shrubs.
Waterford Treasures
The Waterford Treasures consists of three museums located in the historic Viking Triangle area of Waterford City Centre. Together they tell the story of Waterford, Ireland’s Oldest City and founded by Vikings in the 9th Century.
The Medieval Museum features an impressive collection of medieval artefacts, however the enchanting 13th Century Choristers Hall is likely to be the highlight for many.
The Bishops Palace recreates life in a 18th Century townhouse, and has recently added a new state of the art 3D experience which brings to life the fascinating story of glass making in Waterford. Finally, Reginalds Tower is Ireland’s oldest civic building with hundreds of years of history within its walls.
Walsh’s Bakehouse
Walsh’s Bakehouse is home of the Blaa – a local Waterford specialty soft white bread roll (similar to a bap). It is popular for breakfast and lunch, and of course we have them on the breakfast menu for you to try!
Axe Junkies
If you really want to try a unique activity in Waterford, a visit to Axe Junkies Waterford City is a must! Strictly over 18’s and with rigorous safety measures in place, axe throwing is described as “think of it as darts…but with an axe”. While it may not be for everyone, it’s certainly an experience you will never forget!
Ballysaggartmore Towers
This hidden gem is popular for photographers and social media, especially Instagram. The fairytale stone towers were built in 1850 by a wealthy estate owner for his wife. It is located near Lismore in west Waterford.
The Sea Gardener
Perhaps the most unique experience in Waterford – join Marie Power (better known as The Sea Gardener) foraging for seaweed on the beautiful Waterford coastline or a seaweed cookery class. Learn about the different uses and benefits of Irish seaweed – from dining to health, beauty and gardening.
Blackwater Distillery
The modern distillery produces popular brands of gin and Irish whisky which you can taste in both our Fitzgerald Bar and Kings Channel Clubhouse.
The gin in particular is a popular souvenir or gift, with Irish infusions such as Wexford strawberry or Barrys Tea. Tours of the distillery, located about an hour away in Ballyduff, are available for adults and children aged 9 and up.
Waterford Castle Resort
Can we name ourselves as a hidden gem? We think so! From the unique ferry crossing to the rich history of the Castle and grounds (from its time as a monk settlement, to the family home of the Fitzgerald family – to its time as a farm!), the Island Resort is not just a hidden gem, but a jewel in the crown of Ireland’s Ancient East.
