Best Preferred Hotels & Resorts in Ireland

Dromoland Castle sits about 15 miles northwest of Limerick, Ireland, set on a sprawling 450-acre plot of green land. The property, which completed an extensive renovation in 2018, is home to a lake, a spa, a pool and an 18-hole golf course. Plus, visitors can enjoy a bevy of activities, including horseback riding, archery, fishing and hawk walks to the nearby school of falconry. What's more, travelers rave about the scenic setting and the friendly staff members at this castle hotel. When it comes to accommodations, rooms come dressed in elegant decor – just what you'd expect if you were staying in a castle. In-room amenities include Nespresso coffee makers, minibars, televisions and safes. Dromoland Castle is home to multiple dining venues and experiences, too. Earl of Thomond is the hotel's main fine dining restaurant, offering a la carte and five-course meals, and Figtree Restaurant is a casual eatery located in the golf clubhouse. Guests can also enjoy afternoon tea, room service, picnics on the estate (prepared by the staff) or breakfast at The Gallery. While the majority of previous travelers enjoyed their stays, some were disappointed with the expensive room rates. Part of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection, this castle hotel allows iPrefer Hotel Rewards members to earn or redeem points.

For superb service and comfortable accommodations, travelers recommend staying at The Fitzwilliam Hotel Dublin. This Preferred LVX outpost offers guest rooms outfitted with wooden furnishings and bright purple, magenta and green headboards, carpets and accent linens, plus amenities like free Wi-Fi access, minibars and rotary dial telephones. Upgrade to the penthouse for extras like a study, a freestanding limestone bathtub, a baby grand piano and a personal butler. No matter which accommodation you choose, you'll have access to a spa, a fitness center and two top-notch eateries, including the casual Inn on the Green and the more formal Glovers Alley. But it's the property's prime location in downtown Dublin that stood out to travelers. Various shops and restaurants sit within walking distance, as well as attractions like the National Gallery of Ireland and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Before you explore the city, download one of the hotel's complimentary walking tour podcasts, which offer insight about Dublin's fashion scene, historic buildings and Easter Rising battle sites.