41 AUTUMN 22 DESTINATION IRELAND
Cashel Palace Hotel the epitome of Irish hospitality
Call off your search for the perfect New Year treat and make a reservation at an e xquisitely re-imagined luxury Irish hideaway .
Cashel Palace Hotel , the eighteenth-century former archbishop ’ s palace in the heart of Ireland ’ s Ancient East , is set to reopen its elegant doors as a five-star luxury hotel and spa in the spring of next year .
Following a major four-year restoration programme , the hotel will open in March 2022 as a magnificent five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel in the centre of Cashel , County Tipperary , one of the most important heritage towns in Ireland .
In an area famous for horse breeding , the owners ’ passion for all things equine is expressed throughout the hotel and shared with guests in an exciting programme of equestrian experiences , which include exclusive access to some of the most prestigious racing and breeding facilities in the world .
The grand manor , once owned by the legendary Irish racehorse trainer Vincent O ’ Brien , was originally built in 1732 as home to the Bishop of Cashel , before becoming a hotel in 1962 . For decades it has welcomed royalty , Hollywood stars and leading figures in the horseracing community .
Curated by a dedicated equine concierge , experiences include the Tipperary Thoroughbred Trail , which takes in trips to Fethard Horse Country Museum and Coolmore Stud .
A Racing Royalty tour , with unprecedented access to the hallowed grounds of Ballydoyle Racing and Coolmore Stud , also lets guests follow in the tracks of Ireland ’ s legendary breeders , trainers and thoroughbred horses .
The hotel ’ s equine concierge will be able to accompany guests on the experiences , as well as assist in booking further equestrian activities such as horse riding , tickets for Punchestown races , visits to the Irish Racehorse Experience at the National Stud , and much more .
In addition to the equine adventures , there is an impressive range of culinary , Celtic history and outdoor experiences at Cashel Palace Hotel , all expertly curated to provide guests with an authentic flavour of Irish culture .
The new owners , O ’ Brien ’ s daughter Susan Magnier and her family , are best known for owning nearby Coolmore Stud , the most successful thoroughbred breeding operation in the world .
Under the family ’ s careful stewardship , Cashel Palace Hotel is now tastefully transformed and extended to include 42 luxurious bedrooms and suites , a world-class spa , ballroom , and the Guinness Bar , reflecting the hotel ’ s historical links to the father of Arthur Guinness , founder of the globally renowned brewery .
Enveloped in nature and overlooked by ancient history , the hotel grounds surround the Rock of Cashel , one of the most iconic landmarks in Ireland . A private pathway leads to the medieval wonder and the hotel gardens , spa and many bedrooms also provide impressive views of the historic site .
Deeply connected to the bountiful pastures of County Tipperary ’ s Golden Vale , the food and drink at Cashel Palace will be treated as a rich celebration of life , of the land and of the locality .
From light bites to elegant afternoon tea , casual bistro to formal evening dining in the Bishop ’ s Buttery Restaurant , carefully crafted menus will offer the best of Irish produce , with a focus on Tipperary ’ s ingredients and sustainability , all brought together with classical roots and contemporary flair .
An idyllic refuge for indulgence , rest and relaxation before delving into the area ’ s rich Celtic and equestrian history , beautiful landscapes and historic settlements , Cashel Palace Hotel will take you on a magical journey that epitomises the best of Irish hospitality .