Best Castle Stay???

GrammyAmy · Veteran Member

Best Castle Stay???

Michele Erdvig · Host

Amy,

The two castles that are in your "line of travel" are Waterford Castle and Ballyseede Castle (near Tralee). I have links to both on my Castle Hotels page. I think I would choose Waterford.

Michele

CowboyCraic · Guru

As to Ballyseede, I have always felt as if I were headed into a garrison more than a castle. I would have to speak for Waterford, as well. There is something to be said for having "your own" private island, after all. biggrin

I wish I had arrived earlier than I did, as the nature trails deserved more time than the short shift I was able to give them

I hope to go back someday for more than just one night. Perhaps after I win the lottery..next week.... biggrin

Michele, did they ever finish the playground? They had said it was in the works.

Slan Beo,

Bit

Michele Erdvig · Host

Bit,

I don't remember seeing a playground and I walked all over the island. There were some neat old ruins of houses, stables, etc. on the island. I got some great photos. Must get them up on Zazzle when I have a moment.

Michele

GrammyAmy · Veteran Member

Anyone heard anything good/bad about Cabra castle? I may be having to redo our itinerary and thought about using that one.

Also, why Waterford over Ballyseede? Ballyseede is actually easier to refit the itinerary around, but I'm more interested in a great stay than an easy itinerary.

Thanks!

CowboyCraic · Guru

Amy,

I prefer the ambience of Waterford. As I said, I have always felt as if I were coming into a Garrison or the like at Ballyseede. It's just a aesthetic thing for me. Waterford fits my perception of a lesser Castle holding than does Ballyseede. Both are fine establishments in their own right. I have never stayed at Cabra. That is on my short list though.

Slan Beo,

Bit

Michele Erdvig · Host

Amy,

I've not stayed at Cabra Castle either. Waterford just has that "medieval feel. It is on a private island in the river just outside the city. You get to the island by private car ferry that operates 24/7. In the morning and late afternoon there are deer all over the island.

Michele

GrammyAmy · Veteran Member

Okay, thanks! I'm redoing my itinerary (again) and trying to fit in both Cabra for 1 night and Waterford for 2 instead of going to one of the larger, more expensive 5-star castles. I may bug you all again once I get the new itinerary done for more opinions. Thanks so much!

Amy