Forget Fairytale of New York: there’s one just up the road!

IF you ever wanted to get away from it all and live like fairytale royalty for a night, the romantic setting of Clontarf Castle is the picture-perfect destination you’ve always dreamed of.
Though this unique hotel – Dublin’s only castle hotel – is just two DART stops from town, once you arrive, you’ll be transformed into a Disney-princess land of make-believe where the hustle and bustle of Dublin is but a distant dream.
The four-star Clontarf Castle offers the perfect blend of history and tradition with all the comfort and luxuries of the 21st century, including an art collection that’d have any Disney villain donning his black and white burglar suit and reaching for his swag bag.
The newly revamped hotel’s special Castle Collection package is the perfect way to experience the enchanting fusion of old and new, an experience that begins as soon as you arrive up the enchanting leafy driveway to the breathtaking 12th century facade and in through the dramatic, uber-modern atrium lobby.
The incredibly friendly staff are clearly proud to demonstrate how the old can enrich the new – and never is this more evident than when taking in the ancient hotel’s contemporary gallery.
Follow their impressive art trail you uncover a series of intriguing pieces from celebrated artists including Ed Freeman, Ingrid Bugge and Marjorie Kaye, many of which have an element of mischief, humour and often a hidden layer of detail.
Once you’ve taken in the art trail, continue to indulge the senses over Fusion Tea, where contemporary meets traditional with sweet and savoury delights.
Step out for a stroll along Clontarf’s promenade or  unwind in the splenid comfort of Knights Bar over a drink.
As the night draws in relax and take in the historic space, make your way to the award-winning Fahrenheit restaurant for dinner where locally sourced ingredients take pride of place under executive head chef Stuart Heeney, who’s as talented as he is charming.
Speaking of which the only thing Clontarf Castle didn’t deliver was a Prince Charming, but then I wasn’t looking!
nThe eclectic Castle Collection package is priced from €269 per night and includes the art trail, decadent afternoon tea experience ‘Fusion Tea’ and Artisan Castle breakfast the following morning for two.  Visit
clontarfcastle.ie or call 01 8332321 for more information on the Castle Collection package.