Gourmet‘s getaway in Ireland‘s wild and rugged Burren.
The first surprise about Gregans Castle is that it’s not a castle. Instead, this mellow 250-year old country manor looking right across Galway Bay is one of Ireland’s hottest gourmet destinations.
- Hospitality with a heart.
- Gorgeous gourmet food.
- Breathtaking seascapes.
Hit the spot
Halfway between Kerry and Connemara in the rugged Burren.
Amenities
Relax in one of the drawing rooms with a rainy-day board game or afternoon tea in front of the turf fire.
Good to know
Bedrooms are TV-free zones. Dining is top-notch – it’s not the place for casual eats.
Essential info
Check in
14.00Checkout
12.00Parking
There is free guest parking.Pets
Dogs welcome by arrangement. Two dog-friendly rooms with an outdoor area are available, though dogs are not allowed in public areas.Children
Welcome. Under 7s must dine at 6pm.Location
Corkscrew Hill, Ballyvaughan, County Clare, IrelandBedtime
Bedrooms
15 rooms and five suites
Special features
Classically decorated rooms have views over the bay, garden or mountain. Each has a shower and bathtub, luxury toiletries and fluffy robes. Premier suites have their own sitting room and BOSE sound system. There’s a laptop with wi-fi available for guests’ use.
Pillow Talk
Take a Superior room or suite. The Martyn suite (with garden) and Laurel room have four-posters, while Mina's has great bay views.
Eat & Drink
Dining in
Chef Mickael Viljanen has put Gregans firmly on the gourmet dining map, with his inventive celebration of local produce, and exquisite six course tasting menu. Organic Burren lamb and beef are specialities, are Atlantic fish and shellfish. There are commanding views over Galway Bay from the dining room.
Start off with drinks in the Corkscrew bar, with its peat fireplace, where you’ll probably get the chance to meet some fellow guests.
Breakfast
Served until 10am. Try the Eggs Benedict, smoked salmon or pancakes as well as the well stocked buffet. Breakfast can be served in your room for an extra charge.
Room service
Available morning and evening.
Activities
See & Do
You’re close to Europe’s most dramatic cliffs at Moher, where you might spot dolphins (and whales, if you’re lucky) in the distance. Hop aboard an hour-long cruise beneath the cliffs from Doolin or Liscannor, take a day trip to the time-warp Aran islands, go surfing or try some sea angling. The Burren is a popular spot for cycling, walking and horse riding, and not far from County Clare’s big golfing meccas of Lahinch, Gort and Doonbeg. Or get a glimpse of the subterranean Burren at Aillwee cave.
Spa
Gregans works closely with a small number of therapists, and in-room massage treatments can be arranged.
Diary Dates
Early May
Ballyvaughan village celebrates the onset of summer in The Burren in Bloom.
July
Bet on a winner at the big Galway Races.
September
Slurp some of the west coast’s top seafood at Clarinbridge Oyster Festival.