Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort - A 16th-century island castle with an 18-hole golf course, fine dining, and self-catering lodges

Set on a 126 hectare private island accessible by a short ferry crossing, Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort provides 19 individually designed castle rooms and 45 self-catering lodges. The 4-star property features the Munster Room Restaurant, awarded 2 AA Rosettes, serving locally sourced Irish cuisine, alongside bistro-style dining at the King's Channel Clubhouse. Golfers can access Ireland's only island golf course, a par-72 championship layout designed by Des Smyth, while leisure options include clay pigeon shooting, tennis, and nature trails. The Lodges offer three-bedroom accommodations with kitchens, patios, and golf course views. Nearby attractions include Waterford Greenway (5 km), Historic Kilkenny (1-hour drive), and the Copper Coast scenic route.

Pros

The 18-hole championship golf course is Ireland's only island course, designed by former Ryder Cup player Des Smyth.

The Munster Room Restaurant holds 2 AA Rosettes, specializing in locally sourced Irish cuisine.

The 126 hectare island features nature trails, red squirrels, and a herd of wild Sika deer.

Fitzgerald Room Bar houses an extensive whiskey collection and Waterford Crystal chandeliers.

The self-catering lodges accommodate groups with three bedrooms, kitchens, and golf course views.

Cons

The island location requires use of the resort's ferry, limiting spontaneous off-site excursions.

Castle dining options must be pre-booked; walk-in availability is limited.