LOVE, IRISH STYLE,
AT THE DROMOLAND COLLECTION RESORTS

Romantics will delight in the storybook settings of these luxurious five-star properties

Newmarket-on-Fergus, IRE. - The biggest star in the recently-released romantic comedy “Leap Year” is the Emerald Isle itself, from its stunning scenery, to its fairytale castles, to its charming villages and generous “Irish” hospitality. The resorts of The Dromoland Collection are the gateway to it all -- and much, much more -- for lovers of all ages and relationship stages.

Located in western Ireland’s County Clare, Dromoland Castle is one of Ireland’s finest castle resorts, included on the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List, Europe, for six consecutive years.  Set against the backdrop of 410 acres of woodlands, gardens, pathways, and a classic Irish lake, the picture-perfect castle offers a five-star destination for celebrating amour.  Each guest room is a luxurious retreat; the Spa at Dromoland stands ready to pamper with customized couples’ treatments and a gazebo-covered outdoor hydro spa; the award-winning Earl of Thomond restaurant is the dreamiest of dinner destinations; and the service is unsurpassed. Little touches abound, making every couples’ experience unique, including handmade chocolates and champagne at bedside, decadent in-room dining, and picnic baskets made to order for trysts by the River Rine.

Sister property Castlemartyr Resort, nestled in the countryside of County Cork, offers the best of Ireland old and new – and all of the warm and gracious hospitality that defines The Dromoland Collection. Spacious, luxuriously finished guest rooms are located in both the classically lovely Manor House and the glamorous modern wing, which also houses the Spa at Castlemartyr. Complete with floor to ceiling windows, serene vistas of gardens and woodlands, indulgent treatment rooms and a stunning pool atrium, the Spa is an aphrodisiac in itself.  Candlelit dinners at The Garden Room restaurant feature world-class gourmet dining; a few steps away, Knights Bar is the perfect after-dinner retreat for sharing a glass of Irish whisky and a few whispered “sweet nothings.”     

Lovebirds may forget about the outside world entirely while ensconced at the resorts of The Dromoland Collection – and who could blame them?  Still, it would be a shame to miss the pleasures that lie just beyond.  Indeed, many heart-stopping vistas are just miles away.

Near Dromoland Castle are the majestic Cliffs of Moher, with their views of Europe’s westernmost point, the Aran Islands. The drive alone is swoon-worthy, wending its way through the 100-square-mile limestone plateau known as The Burren with its sweeping expanses of sea and sky.  On their return trip, paramours can take in hand-hewn stone walls and thatched-roofed cottages on their way to Doolin village, where traditional music and welcoming pubs await.  Nearby are the haunting mountains and valleys of Connemara, bounded on the west, south and north by the Atlantic Ocean, and the ancient yet thriving Galway city.

Castlemartyr Resort is proud to be part of the blossoming of idyllic County Cork, with Cork city winning third place on Lonely Planet’s “Top 10 Cities 2010” list for its history, youthful energy, fun food, shopping and festivals.  A tour of 1,000-year-old Barryscourt Castle, silent witness to second chances at love, is sure to thrill lord and the lady alike.  In Cobh city, sweethearts will recall the tale of enduring devotion that was the centerpiece of the film “Titanic” while viewing the very dock from which that tragic vessel last sailed.  Nearby Fota House and Gardens in Cobh features a lovely regency mansion, 19th century arboretum, and acres of secluded gardens.

With all this and more at their door, romantics will find everything their hearts desire to celebrate any occasion at the resorts of The Dromoland Collection:  a whirlwind tryst, an unforgettable engagement, a fairytale wedding, or the anniversary celebration of a lifetime.

The Dromoland Collection comprises Dromoland Castle and Castlemartyr Resort, two of Ireland’s finest and most celebrated hotels.  The hotels in this collection embody the legendary Dromoland tradition of incomparable hospitality complemented by exquisite surroundings, yet each possesses a distinctive style, character and charm all its own.  

About Castlemartyr Resort:
Nestled in the unspoiled rolling countryside of East Cork near the ruins of an 800-year-old castle, Castlemartyr Resort’s crowning jewel is a classic 18th century manor house. The Manor has been magnificently restored and elegantly enhanced to offer 109 deluxe guest rooms, gourmet dining, an expansive world-class spa and welcoming, impeccably styled interiors.  Opportunities for outdoor pursuits abound both on the estate, which includes an inland-links-style golf course designed by the renowned Ron Kirby, and in the surrounding region.

Castlemartyr Resort is located in Castlemartyr, Co. Cork, Ireland. The hotel can be contacted at: 011 353 21 4219000; website: www.castlemartyrresort.ie <http://www.castlemartyrresort.ie>. Reservations can be made through the hotel (reception.castlemartyrresort.ie) or through The Dromoland Collection at: www.dromolandcollection.ie <http://www.dromolandcollection.ie>.

About Dromoland Castle:
Dromoland Castle, located in Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare, was built in the 16th century.  Majestically set on the shores of Lough Dromoland, it is surrounded by over 410 acres of breathtaking scenery, including a championship parkland golf course.  Lavish interiors, fine food and superb wines complement the deluxe accommodations of the Castle’s 99 guest rooms, while Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club, an intimate spa and traditional outdoor recreational opportunities ensure a unique guest experience.  

Dromoland Castle is located at Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare, Ireland. The hotel can be contacted at: 011 353 61 368144 or 1-800-346-7007; website www.dromoland.ie <http://www.dromoland.ie> . Reservations can be made through the hotel ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it <mailto: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it > ) or through The Dromoland Collection at: www.dromolandcollection.ie.