One of the most prestigious hotels in Europe, Ashford Castle offers unrivalled service, warm Irish hospitality and five-star luxury. An amazing stay at any time of year, an Ashford Castle Christmas goes above and beyond. Think Santa, giant trees, sumptuous cuisine and a festive cruise. Read on to see why Ashford Castle is one of the best hotels for Christmas and find out how they celebrate the holiday season.

Ashford Castle – An Iconic Stay

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The Ashford Castle hotel is situated in a spectacular 350-acre estate. Over 800 years old, the castle is a grand, historic structure of great national significance. The former home of the Guinness family, it has hosted countless notables over the years, including The Prince of Wales (who later became King George V) and President Ronald Reagan. Sumptuous rooms and suites combine with divine interiors brimming with antique furniture, fine fabrics and unique features.

Stay in luxury at Ashford Castle on: Ultimate Ireland & Castles & Kingdoms

A Time to Make Guests Feel Special

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“At Ashford Castle we’re an extended family for our guests and it is viewed as a home,” Catherine, Ashford Castle’s Rooms Division Manager tells us. “It is important that when guests arrive, either on Christmas Eve or before, they feel they are coming home, and that they know someone. Everybody at Ashford understands the importance of our guests coming for Christmas. They all go above and beyond and there is a lovely excitement in the house.”

“We reach out to guests in advance and keep in touch with them in the months leading up to their arrival. This way we build a relationship with them and learn about their preferences, which we try to incorporate into their stay in some discreet way.”

Of course, the most VIP festive guest to visit the castle is Santa. Arriving on Christmas Eve, he presents all of the guests with a gift.

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Christmas Trees, Grown on the Estate

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Taking pride of place in the magnificent Oak Hall is a 20-foot-high Christmas tree, which Catherine tells us proudly “is grown and matured on the estate.” A palatial space, the Oak Hall with its storied interior veneered in rich oak paneling and draped in deep scarlets, makes a magnificent setting for the tree.

Ashford Castle’s Head Gardener Martin keeps an eye out through the year for the best tree, so the hunt begins months ahead. The tree provides the perfect backdrop for the Christmas family photograph that all guests receive. Additional trees are also placed in the Staterooms and Suites.

For travel inspiration: Ireland destination guide

Festive Feasts and a Pudding Parade

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Decadent festive breakfasts, a flow of mulled wine, and quintessential afternoon tea pepper the festivities. On Christmas Eve a black-tie gala dinner provides a sumptuous feast. The centerpiece is, of course, the Christmas Day lunch. Dine on a thoughtfully chosen menu of traditional favorites. Or there are a wide range of alternatives to choose from.

The festive five-course menu includes decadent dishes such as beetroot-cured organic salmon with blinis and horseradish cream, spiced pumpkin and chestnut soup, and mulled wine sorbet. And of course, traditional roast turkey and ham, served with bread stuffing, goose-fat roast potato, turkey sausage roll, and rosemary gravy.

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Special wine-tasting sessions are offered over the festive days. Guests can also relax in the lounge and sip a signature Baileys Hot Chocolate, made with Valrhona chocolate.

A festive highlight is the Pudding Parade. “Christmas pudding is made here in the Castle,” Catherine says. “Our team of Chefs in full uniform parade the hot puddings into the restaurant, piped in by Benny the Piper. It’s quite a sight.”

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Christmas Day Cruise on Lough Corrib

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“A highlight for guests on Christmas Day is a leisurely cruise on Lough Corrib, a truly beautiful setting,” shares Catherine. “We serve hot whiskeys and there is traditional music on board. Everyone gets into the festive spirit.”

The second largest freshwater lake in Ireland, the stunning Lough Corrib is around 35 miles in length and contains over 300 islands. It separates the fertile limestone plains of east Galway from the lake-strewn bogs and rugged mountains of Connemara in the west.

Music and Merriment

It wouldn’t be an Irish celebration without live music. And Ashford Castle has lined up some of the greats. This includes the legendary Irish singer Keith McDonald who will perform both with his Show Band and solo. One of Ireland’s leading male vocalists, expect a toe-tapping evening and a festive tune or two.

Discover a world of relaxation from an Ashford Castle expert: Skip The Jacuzzi and Brave the Ice Bath: Industry Insider Joanna Moran Reveals Her Top Spa Secrets

St Stephens Day Celebrations

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December 26th is known as St Stephen’s Day in Ireland, also called the Feast of Saint Stephen. On this day Ashford Castle invites guests to join them in the great outdoors.  The 350-acre castle estate boasts stunning parkland, woods and gardens. The magical setting on the edge of Lough Corrib with the Castle as the central feature is truly unique. The gardens combine a thoughtful balance of formal and informal areas, with a Walled Garden full of perennial borders, fruit and vegetables. The great woods are home to ancient trees, perfect to wander through at leisure and enjoy the wildlife.

Fly a Harris Hawk

Guests can try the ancient form of falconry, a fascination that has enthralled people for 5,000 years. Ashford Castle is home to the oldest established Falconry School in Ireland and flying hawks is an experience of a lifetime. You can also test your archery skills or even try your hand at sheep herding on the estate.

And to top off St Stephen’s Day, in the evening there is a visit from the Wren Boys offering a feast of traditional music. This celebration gives a nod to the age-old Irish Wren Boys custom that, in the past, saw people dress up and travel from door to door singing, dancing and playing traditional music.

Why is Ashford Castle Famous?

An icon of County Mayo since the 13th Century, Ashford Castle is now an exquisite 5-star hotel. Originally built in 1228 as a fortress, it has served as a noble residence for centuries. In 2013, the Tollman Family spent two years lovingly renovating the historic property, restoring it above and beyond its former glory. Today Ashford Castle is reconginsed as one of the best hotels in the world, and earning the accolade of Ireland’s only Forbes five-star rated hotel .

How Far is Ashford Castle From Dublin?

Ashford Castle is 240km (150 miles) from Dublin, roughly a three hour drive.

You can experience the delights and luxury of Ashford Castle for yourself on our Ultimate Ireland and Castles & Kingdoms limited-edition tours.

Serene surroundings adorned with elegant decor, soothing sounds of water, and the gentle aroma of essential oils – that can only be a luxury spa.  But how do you make the most of your visit? And what treatments do you try? To find out the spa secrets to make the most of your visit, we spoke to Joanna Moran, Director of Spa and Wellness at Ashford Castle.

Luxury Gold guests visit this sensational 5 star hotel on our Castles & Kingdoms, and Ultimate Ireland small group journeys. Not only home to one of Ireland’s most prestigious spas, the  castle features elegant rooms, fine dining, and a range of activities including falconry and golf.

Discover this on: Castles & Kingdoms and Ultimate Ireland

The Secret to a Great Luxury Spa

Joanna Moran, Director of Spa and Wellness at Ashford Castle has worked in the industry for over 20 years.

“A great luxury spa is a place where you can truly relax and rejuvenate, it’s a sanctuary, ”Joanna explains when asked her spa secrets. “It is somewhere you can immerse yourself in a transformative journey of well-being, whilst being nurtured and nourished by beautiful surroundings and high-quality treatments.”

“At the heart of a great luxury spa lies exceptional service, with highly trained staff ensuring a unique and tailored experience for every guest. Having a dining menu available that complements the spa’s wellness philosophy is also a great way for guests to finish of a day of pampering.”

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Four Hands are Better Than Two

“The most incredible spa treatment I ever had was in Ananda in The Himalayas where I experienced their exclusive Four-Handed Abhyanga Massage,” she tells us.

“This ancient Ayurvedic massage involves two therapists working in perfect harmony, using synchronized movements. The result is a deeply relaxing and profoundly rejuvenating experience. Even with all my experience in the wellness industry I was impressed, this is definitely a spa secret worth sharing!

“The massage comes with significant mental and emotional benefits too. The synchronized, rhythmic movements help to release accumulated stress and tension, giving a feeling of inner peace and rejuvenation.”

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Try The Big Freeze

Whilst the main aim of a spa is of course relaxation, that doesn’t mean that you can’t step a little out of your comfort zone and try something new. The jacuzzi, sauna and steam room offer a familiar comfort, but there’s much more on the menu these days.

“I highly recommend ice baths, I’ve tried them and they’re transformational,” says Joanna, “with so many benefits, both physical and mental, they are the best spa secret if you’ve not yet tried one. The cold temperature can help reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. They also help to flush out metabolic waste from the muscles and boost the immune system.

“What I love about though are the mental and emotional benefits. The experience of enduring cold water stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones, which make you feel fantastic.”

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Reach for the Hot Cups

“Hot cupping is another therapy that I really love and encourage everyone to try,” says Joanna, explaining that hot cupping is an ancient therapy with roots in traditional Chinese medicine.

“It’s been used for thousands of years to promote healing and balance in the body. The process involves placing heated cups on the skin to create a vacuum, which draws the skin and underlying tissues upward into the cup. It’s believed to stimulate the flow of energy, or “qi,” and aid in overall wellness.

“One of the primary benefits that I have experiences is its ability to relieve pain and relax muscles. The suction and heat from the cups help to increase blood flow to the affected areas. It really is very effective especially when used in conjunction with acupuncture and massage therapy.”

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My Bucket List Spa

Guests at Six Senses take part in a Cacao ceremony: Photo credit: @sixsenses.ibiza on Instagram

“The Spa at Six Senses Ibiza is certainly one that stands out on my bucket list,” says Joanna, sharing more spa secrets. “It offers a holistic approach to wellness, focusing on mind, body and spirit, and it is renowned for its combination of cutting-edge therapies and traditional healing practices. This comprehensive approach to well-being is something I find incredibly appealing and beneficial for achieving overall balance and rejuvenation.”

Located on the picturesque northern tip of Ibiza, Six Senses offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea – the idyllic setting alone makes it a desirable destination.

“This spa offers a level of exclusivity and personalized attention that sets it apart,” she continues. “With a limited number of guests at any time, they ensure that each visitor receives individualized care and bespoke treatments. This personalized approach is something I deeply appreciate, as it enhances the overall spa experience.”

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A Day at Ashford Castle Spa

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A highlight of your stay at the magnificent Ashford Castle, under Joanna’s careful eye the Spa and Wellness Centre offers an experience second to none. Located in County Mayo, Ireland, this 13th-century castle was once the ancestral home of the Guinness family and has been meticulously restored to offer an opulent retreat. Surrounded by 350 acres of lush grounds, guests can explore extensive gardens, woodlands and Lough Corrib.

“If you were to spend a day with us at Ashford Castle spa I would advise you to begin by indulging in our luxurious Ashford Castle Ritual,” says Joanna. “This is our signature spa treatment and combines a soothing back massage with warm aromatherapy oils, a relaxing foot massage, and a mini spa facial for an instant glow.

“Then you can spend time in our lavish steam room, to detoxify and relax your muscles, and open your pores. Follow this with a refreshing dip in our heated indoor pool with stunning views of the castle grounds, then, after your treatment, retreat to our Relaxation Room to enjoy fresh, healthy nibbles and soak up the ambiance of the spa and the beautiful Ashford Castle estate. We’d love for you to come an experience true relaxation and rejuvenation with us.”

You may also be interested to read: How Luxury Gold Journeys Go Above and Beyond with Expert Karen Gower

Joanna’s Top Tips to Make the Most of Your Luxury Spa Experience:

Photo credit: @ashfordcastle on Instagram

Before your visit: choose treatments which best suit your needs and preferences. Booking in advance is always a good idea so that you can get your preferred time and treatment.

Arrive on time: Arriving at least 30 minutes before your appointment allows you to check in, change into your robe and slippers, and start unwinding in the pool or thermal relaxation areas. This sets a calm tone for your entire visit.

Share your preferences with staff: Whether it’s the pressure of a massage, the temperature of the room, or any allergies, clear communication ensures a personalized and comfortable experience.

Turn off your phone: or leave it in a locker to fully immerse yourself in the serene environment. Disconnecting from technology helps you to relax and be present in the moment.

Drink plenty of water before and after your treatments to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to use saunas or steam rooms. Many spas offer healthy snacks and beverages, so take advantage of these to keep your energy levels up.

Don’t rush through your spa day. Allow yourself to linger in the relaxation lounges, enjoy the amenities like relaxation pool and steam room and savor the experience fully.

Post-treatment care is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your spa treatments. Follow any aftercare instructions provided by your therapist, such as avoiding direct sunlight after a facial or staying hydrated after a massage.

Remember to reflect on your experience. Enjoy a cup of herbal tea, sit quietly in the relaxation lounge, and let the feeling of relaxation and rejuvenation sink in before you return to the outside world.

To experience the luxury of Ashford Castle for yourself take a look at our Castles & Kingdoms and Ultimate Ireland small group journeys.

Food is the edible history of a culture and a community, each morsel telling stories and creating memories. Bringing each destination deliciously to life, every Luxury Gold journey offers a menu of dining options like no other. This includes a wide range of culinary experiences, from exclusive dinners in Michelin-starred restaurants to street food walks with locals who know where to source the best delicacies in the city.

And on select Luxury Gold excursions, travelers are greeted with private chef cooking classes. Curated to not only introduce travelers to the flavors of a destination, these private cooking classes provide an experience you can take home to relive mouthwatering memories whenever you choose. To temp you further, take look at just some of the experiences you can look forward to as a guest of Luxury Gold.

To when your appetite, read more about Exceptional Dining

Roll Italian pasta in a Tuscan private cooking class

The wealthy Medici family helped fuel the Italian Renaissance, and though their bloodline no longer flows through Italy, travelers can still visit their rich properties. In Tuscany, you’ll visit one of the Medici family’s hunting lodges for a quintessential Italian experience: private chef cooking classes. Source fresh ingredients from the lodge’s garden and roll your own fresh pasta for lunch alongside a professional Italian chef for a decadent and delicious meal. 

Take a bit out of Tuscany and savour other classic Italian flavours in Rome, Florence and more on Ultimate Italy.

For lovers of Italian cuisine: 7 ways you’ll celebrate Tuscan food when you travel with Luxury Gold

Go beyond the tapas bars and learn Spanish culinary secrets

Spain’s cuisine is far from a monolith: between Barcelona and Madrid alone are a host of different styles and specialties. Andalusia, Spain’s southernmost agricultural region, is known for its gazpacho, oxtail, sherry and Iberian ham. In Seville, you’ll spend a day diving into the region’s flavors. A chef awaits your arrival at an Andalusian market, ready to walk you through the fresh meat and produce. When the market tour concludes, you’ll enjoy a private cooking class and learn how to make some of Spain’s hallmark plates, before savoring them for lunch.

Learn cooking techniques in Seville, plus dine at the Michelin-starred L’Antic Moli on Spain & Portugal in Style.

Pick up the cheque: Where to Find the Most Rare & Expensive Food in the World

Prepare lunch on a Vietnamese riverboat with a professional chef 

Every foodie has heard of the legendary banh mi. This world-famous Vietnamese street food is best experienced in the alleyways of Hoi An. It’s a palate pleasing event, but only an appetizer for what’s to come. You’ll board a traditional bamboo-basket boat and cruise to the Thanh Dong village. Once onboard, locals will host private chef cooking classes for you and your group, helping you prepare lunch as you learn about their local customs for cultivating and harvesting vegetables.   

Leave room for more mouthwatering experiences when you visit Vietnam with Luxury Gold, including a brunch cruise to Hanoi and a private concert dining experience at the home of singer Camille Huyen. 

Savor this on Spirit of Vietnam.

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Discover the nuances of Indian spices 

Private chef cooking classes are quite engaging, though there’s a case to be made that a food tasting tour is just as critical in learning how to cook international cuisine. In Delhi, you’ll have the opportunity to join a well-known chef, not in his kitchen, but in the streets of Old Delhi. You’ll hop between food stalls, watching how each Indian delicacy is prepared. The stallholders will give you tips and tricks for how to properly balance spices to create transformative tastes. 

Travel to India on a Luxury Gold small group journey and you’ll have far more than one afternoon to experience the country’s many flavors, including a sunset desert dinner with local musicians in Jaisalmer and lakeside banquet dinner in Udaipur.

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Drink in a mixology class in Southern USA

In the deep south, a signature drink is just as important as a hearty meal. With so many delicious plates set before you, an afternoon at the Dunleith Historic Inn gives your stomach a break with a hands-on mixology class. Ideal for those who’ve already taken a few private cooking classes on other Luxury Gold tours, the bar manager at this pre-Civil War mansion will teach you how to stir up two seasonal cocktails. 

Sip that Mint Julep before settling into a three-course dinner, the head to New Orleans where Cajun and Creole flavors await on Southern Grace. 

You may be interested to read: High Notes: How Travel Concierge Ann Amplifies the Sounds of the South

Style sushi with a master in Tokyo

Sushi rolling is a revered 2,000-year-old Japanese art. A decade of practice is required to become a master sushi chef, but thankfully, this Luxury Gold tour expedites the process by providing private chef cooking classes in Japan. Join a master sushi chef for an in depth sushi rolling lesson. You’ll learn why the philosophy and precision required to perfect the technique is unlike any other culinary exercise on the planet.  

Sushi is just one of the many iconic Japanese meals you’ll enjoy on Majestic Japan with Luxury Gold. You’ll also have a Geisha lunch performance in Kyoto and sip sake at a private tasting with a local brewmaster in Oirase. 

Discover this on: Majestic Japan

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Feel lucky with a hosted dinner in an Irish family’s home

No matter where we’re from, we all share memories of sitting around the family dinner table as dish after dish is prepared. In Ireland, you’ll have the opportunity to pause your restaurant reservations and instead welcome the invitation to dine at a homestead in Blarney. Unlike a private chef cooking class, you’ll sit back and let your hosts do the cooking for you, though you’re welcome to ask away any questions you have regarding Irish food and cooking techniques.

Enjoy many more experiences with locals, including dinner at a local gastropub in Dublin and a street art tour in Belfast on Ultimate Ireland.

Hungry for more: Indulge Your Inner Gourmet With These Luxury Food Experiences

To discover how you can see and taste the world in a whole new light, take a look at our worldwide collection of small group journeys.