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Ireland: Newmarket-on-Fergus and Castlemartyr, Classic Family Vacations with Falconry, Horseback Riding, and Baking with the Chef.376IrelandCarlyleCooks From pony and trap rides to falconry and hide-and-seek, the two authentic castle resorts of The Dromoland Collection have it all, making them the perfect playgrounds for even the littlest adventurers and their families.

Dromoland Castle and Castlemartyr Resort are renowned for their unparalleled service and luxurious ambiance, but that’s only part of the tale.  At their heart is a tradition of warm and welcoming hospitality that embraces children and adults alike, ensuring a vacation that yields life-long memories for the entire family. Enjoy making memories together. Options include archery, falconry, horseback riding, fishing, tennis, clay shooting, duck feeding, and nature walks.
 
Kids are encouraged to partake of any of the classic Irish recreational activities on offer; most are supervised by one of The Dromoland Collection’s kid-friendly experts, including Dromoland Castle’s falconer David Atkinson and Castlemartyr Resort’s ghillie Maurice Cahill and Roy Daily, the estate’s carriage man with Kerry Bog ponies.  For older children, there are also guided tours that provide an introduction to the rich, and occasionally hair-raising, history of these centuries-old estates.  For the wee ones, there’s hide-and-seek in the forests and gardens or, at Castlemartyr Resort, a few hours in the dedicated “Kids’ Zone” or a game of fetch with resident Irish Setters Earl and Countess.
 
Thoughtfully planned children’s menus will sate the voracious appetites that all these fun and educational activities are sure to stoke, while in-room dining offers classic snacks to accompany a family movie night.  The Dromoland Collection’s generous and attentive Irish hospitality doesn’t end there, however; special treats also await at check-in and turn-down (lollipops, cookies and warm milk, and teddy bears, anyone?). Bonus points: Pedal Go-Karts magically appear on request, and who doesn't enjoy feeding ducks?
 
Dromoland Castle Ireland Falconry Family Travel Files
Additional amusements are not far away, including a wildlife park, beaches, Europe’s largest indoor activity center for kids and a go-cart circuit.  Furthermore, other family-friendly outings are easily arranged by the resorts’ knowledgeable and enthusiastic concierges; day sailing on the Celtic Sea and shopping in historic-yet-vibrant nearby towns are only the beginning.

Kids are treated like royalty at Dromoland Castle and Castlemartyr Resort – guaranteeing a uniquely memorable Emerald Isle sojourn for the entire family. The Dromoland Collection comprises of Dromoland Castle and Castlemartyr Resort, two of Ireland’s finest and most celebrated hotels. 

The hotels in this collection embody the legendary Dromoland tradition of incomparable hospitality complemented by exquisite surroundings. Each resort possesses a distinct style, character, and unique charm. But it is the magic of staying in a real castle that will strike a child's heart.  
 
About Castlemartyr Resort:
Nestled in the unspoiled rolling countryside of East Cork near the ruins of an 800-year-old castle, Castlemartyr Resort’s crowning jewel is a classic 18th century manor house. The Manor has been magnificently restored and elegantly enhanced to offer 103 deluxe guest rooms, gourmet dining, an expansive world-class spa and welcoming, impeccably styled interiors.  Opportunities for outdoor pursuits abound both on the estate, which includes an inland-links-style golf course designed by the renowned Ron Kirby, and in the surrounding region. Location on the planet: Castlemartyr Resort is located in Castlemartyr, Co. Cork, Ireland. Make it happen. The hotel may be contacted at: 011 353 21 4219000 or go to www.castlemartyrresort.ie

About Dromoland Castle: Dromoland Castle, located in Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare, was built in the 16th century.  376IrelandDromCastleMajestically set on the shores of Lough Dromoland, it is surrounded by over 410 acres of breathtaking scenery, including a championship parkland golf course.  Lavish interiors, fine food and superb wines complement the deluxe accommodations of the Castle’s 99 guest rooms, while Dromoland Castle Golf and Country Club, an intimate spa and traditional outdoor recreational opportunities ensure a unique guest experience. Location on the planet: Dromoland Castle is located at Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare, Ireland. Make it happen. The hotel can be contacted at: 011 353 61 368144, toll-free 1-800-346-7007 or go to www.dromoland.ie
 
Make it happen: Reservations may also be made through The Dromoland Collection at: www.dromolandcollection.ie

Editor’s note: Recently our family enjoyed a carefree or maybe I should say free-form family vacation in Ireland. I proved to myself fly-drive is actually possible (easy) even with the never ending construction in and around Dublin and the obvious lack of meaningful signage near most rural communities. While the countryside is not as green as the television depicts, the people we met were indeed friendly, helpful and interested in sharing Ireland. We sampled every bakery within eyesight; tried organic pub food; walked on the beach; ran in the rain; discovered new music; listen to radio commercials in Gaelic and got lost even with a GPS. So when I learned of the The Dromoland Castle Resorts family activities I began smiling. I have not had the chance to visit either property but the locations are exceptional. Ireland is a sure bet for families that wish to relax and rejuvenate. The atmosphere is comfortable and easy paced and most important Nutella is available at every grocer.
 
Content and images provided by Carlyle International. Falcon image and updating by Scott Kamps-Duac. Comments made by Nancy Nelson-Duac, Editor FTF. Copyright 2011.


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