Castledermot, Kildare
Kilkea CastleBuilt by a knight in 1180, the supposedly ghost-ridden Kilkea exudes an air of mystery, thanks to images of demons etched into the walls (meant to ward off the evil eye) and spots like the Haunted Tower. But the 36 guest rooms have a country-bed-and-breakfast coziness. Kilkea Demesne, from 200 euros for a double (kids 11 and under stay free).
County Mayo
Ashford CastleThe Ashford lives up to every storybook notion of what a castle should be. Located in the village of Cong, the castle has operated as a luxury hotel since 1939, catering to as many movie stars as families. The 83 guest rooms have an old-world elegance, while the common areas play up the castle's past. Activities include nightly sing-alongs at the medieval-looking Dungeon Bar, archery, fly-fishing, horseback riding, and golf on the 350 acres of countryside. Cong, from 540 euros for a double.
County Clare
Dromoland CastleThe 16th-century structure fulfills its promise as a place to live as if in an Irish legend, with activities like horseback riding, golfing, and fishing on the 410-acre grounds. Chintz-and-velvet rooms and opulent common areas (featuring live harp music) complete the transporting effect. Newmarket-on-Fergus, from 440 euros for a double.
