The World of Hospitality Issue 31 2019 | Page 58

58 THE WORLD OF HOSPITALITY  ROOMS & DÉCOR: The 12th century castle has been fully refurnished and the result is an intriguing mélange of medieval décor and modern chic. Guests may enjoy a variety of offerings in the castle itself, including a luxurious Drawing Room, perfect for afternoon tea, and a grand Dining Room for sumptuous meals and gatherings.  Other areas to enjoy include the Castle Lounge, with its roaring fireplace, and The Keep, an authentic Irish pub where guests may enjoy Irish whiskey and Guinness after a full day of activities. There are 11 beautifully appointed bedrooms in the castle, including the Fitzgerald Suite that features sweeping vistas of the landscape that encompasses the estate.  In the court yard, the original Carriage House and stables have been converted into 31 lovely bedrooms, many of which showcase original features including bespoke wrought iron and exposed wooden beams.   GOLF CLUB & COURSE: Kilkea Castle’s new clubhouse proudly overlooks the 9th hole of its private golf course with the majestic castle visible just beyond.  The 18-hole, par 70 parkway course KILKEA CASTLE features the River Greese as a natural hazard flowing throughout with two different lakes included in the design. Additional offerings include a driving range, practice putting green, fully stocked golf shop and, overlooking the course, 18 newly renovated, self-catering, three-bedroom lodges are available, perfect for families or a group of avid golfers.    DINING: Using seasonal local produce from ethically sourced suppliers, the culinary team at Kilkea Castle delivers superb traditional Irish cuisine with a hint of international flavor.  Options include The Bistro, an informal dining experience that seats 68 located in the clubhouse which offers a selection of healthy breakfasts, lite bites and hearty main dishes. A sophisticated setting, Hermione’s Restaurant, which accommodates 110, offers a mix of haute cuisine with seasonal specials and Irish favorites. In the Castle, guests can enjoy High Tea in the Drawing Room, with specialty teas or a glass of bubbly and delicate finger sandwiches, homemade scones with jam and a lashing of fresh cream.  For a sophisticated culinary experience, guests may also enjoy WEBSITE: www.kilkeacastle.ie the grandeur found in the Dining Room and Restaurant 1180,  which overlook the Rose Garden and 18th hole.     BANQUET HALL & FITNESS CENTER/SPA: The first building that greets visitors at the main entrance to the castle is the new Baronial Hall, a grandly appointed event space that accommodates up to 280 guests, perfect for wedding receptions, live concerts and performances, conferences and conventions, and fetes and celebrations of all kinds.  Just behind in what was once a nightclub is the luxury spa and fully appointed fitness center, scheduled to open in July 2018.   PURSUITS & PLEASURES: In addition to golf, Kilkea Castle hosts a variety of pursuits and pleasures including Tennis, Archery, Falconry, Skeet Shooting, Horseback Riding, Swimming, Tubing, Cycling, Fishing, Birdwatching, and a variety of tailored Spa Treatments.  Nearby, guests can enjoy Sightseeing, Shopping, Hiking, Live Music, Art Exhibits, Theater Performances,  Horse Racing, Museums and more.