Justin B.
Yelp
All I can say is that Gregans Castle was the cornerstone of the most fantastic vacation we could have ever imagined. We sought the Irish countryside - rolling green hills, rocky landscapes, winding roads - and we found it. But Gregans Castle was more than a perfect launching point for visiting landmarks such as the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher - it was a home away from home. The staff were so incredibly hospitable. Like visiting an old friend, they sought to our needs in a friendly non-invasive manner. The room was quaint and the bathroom luxurious with wonderful towels and a bath robe. The grounds were tremendously manicured with the most beautiful little flower-filled walkways and a little area reserved for croquet. It is conveniently located a hop-skip and a jump from Ballyvaughan where you can find restaurants, a grocery store, and a little light souvenir shopping (as well as a late night pizza/taco place if you have the munchies).
Notably, Gregans Castle restaurant was superb. My husband and I had the best meal we've ever encountered (and that's comparing Gregans Castle to Ashford Castle where we stayed for 2 nights). Our dining experience was limited to several tables allowing for a very attentive experience. Our waiter, Shane, was charming and informative. The food was unparalleled and the ambiance just lovely. You do have to reserve a time for dinner, as you would expect with an upscale restaurant.
To share a story commenting on their remarkable hospitality... when we first arrived, my husband's luggage was lost. I called the front desk to ask if there was a washing machine available. Initially, I was told laundry services were over for the evening. That was actually the answer I was expecting. 2-3 minutes later I received a call back stating they could wash his laundry and have it ready in the morning. Unfortunately, we had an early excursion booked the next morning that wouldn't work either. I thanked them for their graciousness and hung up. 2-3 minutes later, Simon (the owner) called and said they could have the laundry washed and delivered late that evening. I was baffled by the level of attentiveness and kindness.
On several occasions, my husband and I had the fortune of hanging out at the bar with Ken. He was amazingly attentive, charming, knowledgeable about the area, and just a lot of fun. My fondest memories of Gregans were the hours spent in the Corkscrew Room.
All I can say is Gregans Castle Hotel was a stupendously wonderful experience. It was more than a hotel stay - it was an experience. I am now trying to hunt down some Irish Peat to recreate the lovely smell of entering the hotel in the evenings. This is the THE place to stay if you wish to visit the Western countryside. Wonderful.