Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel
Carton Demesne, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 TD98, Ireland
Web: cartonhouse.com
Tel: +353 1 505 2000
Price: Doubles incl. breakfast from € 300

WHY BOOK?

Elegance and luxury of a bygone era come to life not only here, in the "Morrison Room". © Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Crowned heads like Prince Rainier and Queen Victoria as well as stars like Grace Kelly have already been guests here. A stay at the Carton House takes you back to times long past. However, with the luxury, elegance and all conveniences of today. Rest seekers and golf fans have found the right place here.

Location & neighborhood

The hotel's surroundings are exceedingly idyllic; two golf courses are part of the property. © Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

The historic property in Ireland is set amid two golf courses. Numerous walking paths lead through the extensive parkland. It can happen that you meet deer, foxes, otters, owls and hawks here. You are only separated from Dublin and all its sights with a 45 minutes drive. At the property itself, you can golf, take boat and kayak tours, try your hand at archery and falconry, or explore the nearby Kildare Village by bike. There you'll also find a luxury shopping outlet.

Ambience & Service

Even the access road is nothing less than spectacular. As soon as you pass the gate, you follow a long, winding road. It leads through the park and finally ends in front of a castle-like estate made of stone. Already in the lobby it becomes clear that the balancing act between tradition and modernity has been extremely successful. A long glass corridor connects the modern extension with The House, which was the original building.

"The Carriage House" is located next to the main building. Once the carriage house, it is now a cozy pub-style dining outlet. © Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

The latter dates back in part to the 17th century. Of course, it too has been brought up to the state of the art. But anyone who spends time here inevitably thinks of Downton Abbey. Even the original Bell Room, where servants waited to be called to work, is still preserved. The unobtrusive but attentive service reinforces the impression of being a royal on vacation.

Rooms & suites

The accommodations are spread over The House and the modern Garden Wing. The House Staterooms present themselves individually furnished and are provided with charming details. They are equipped with modern bathrooms. At the same time, a certain Victorian ambience is inherent. In keeping with the style, the staterooms also bear names rather than numbers.

The Presidential Suites invite you to dream of times long past. © Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

In the Garden Wing are the newest rooms and suites. They are also extremely tastefully furnished. Particularly popular are the Signature Suites with their spacious balconies and the Terrace Suites. Of course, all accommodations have minibars and modern entertainment systems.

Gastronomy

Several dining options are available to guests. One of the most spectacular in all of Ireland is probably the Morrison Room. Here, guests dine on 7-course tasting menus by Head Chef Charles Degrendele under the stunning ornate ceiling. He combines French influences with Irish tradition. On Sundays, they also offer lunch.

Kathleen's Kitchen offers the chance to look over the chefs' shoulders as they work. © Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

In Kathleen's Kitchenreigns a relaxed atmosphere. A modern cuisine meets an interior design, which presents many original pieces. For example, the stoves from the 17th century. Lunch and dinner are served as well as excellent coffees and desserts. In the former coach house is The Carriage House which is a casual restaurant. Here you'll not be noticed even if you have just returned from the golf course or a hike.

Spa & Fitness

Guests seeking peace and quiet will find a small oasis in the Garden Wing. What was a mill in the 18th century consists of a whirlpool and an indoor pool now. A sauna, a steam bath and a children's pool complete the offer. Deep relaxation is provided by the talented hands of the treatment team.

The pool overlooks the small, glass-enclosed gym, which spans two floors. © Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Definitely recommended is the Carton House Spa & Wellness Signature Massage. The rhythmic massage is the shortcut on the way to deep relaxation. For those who don't want to skip a workout day even on vacation, there's a gym. This spans two floors and offers some modern cardio equipment as well as strength-training facilities.

A Tip from the editorial office

Carton House has a very exciting history. It's worth strolling through the premises of The House and discovering the many details. If you want a deeper insight into times long past you should ask for Harry the Historian. He is happy to share his knowledge during guided tours. Another experience are the whiskey tastings in the beautiful Whiskey Library.

Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel
Carton Demesne, Maynooth, Co. Kildare, W23 TD98, Ireland
Web: cartonhouse.com
Tel: +353 1 505 2000
Price: Doubles incl. breakfast from € 300