Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort - Ballinakill (Galway)

Private island castle hotel & golf resort on the River Suir

Private Island & Access

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort sits on a 100 hectare private island in the River Suir, accessible only by a complimentary 3-minute car ferry that runs every 15 minutes. The ferry requires no reservation and operates throughout the day, letting guests drive directly up the beech-lined drive to the 16th-century castle. Once on the island, guests can explore nature trails, see wallabies and deer, and enjoy the complete seclusion of a property detached from the mainland.

Accommodations

The castle offers individually designed rooms and suites with goose-down quilts, free WiFi, and views over the river. For families or larger groups, the Waterford Castle Lodges provide three- and four-bedroom semi-detached properties with a spacious open-plan kitchen, dining area, and adjoining living room. All rooms and lodges are set within the restored 16th-century castle grounds, maintaining the historical character of the estate.

Dining

The Munster Room Restaurant, awarded 2-AA Rosettes, serves fine dining using locally sourced ingredients and was named Irish Culinary Experience of the Year 2023. Additional dining options include breakfast in the solarium, a bar in the castle, and a separate clubhouse bar and restaurant at the golf course. Guests can also choose from special diet menus, kids' meals, and a breakfast-in-the-room service.

Activities & Golf

Waterford Castle Resort features Ireland's only true island championship 18-hole golf course, with a driving range, a pro shop staffed by expert professionals, and a putting green. Beyond golf, the hotel offers clay-target shooting, tennis, and croquet on the grounds, plus a 6 km flat walking trail around the island perimeter. Families will find a children's playground, a kids' club, and a dedicated outdoor play equipment area.

Weddings & Events

The castle can be hired exclusively for private events, and the hotel was named Wedding Planner of the Year 2024. A dedicated wedding coordinator, Gillian, oversees every detail, from the ceremony to the five-course dinner in the Munster Room. The hotel also provides meeting and banqueting facilities, a 24-hour front desk, and a dedicated team for group events.

• Location: Private island on the River Suir, 3-min ferry from mainland
• Golf: Championship 18-hole island course with pro shop & driving range
• Dining: 2-AA Rosette Munster Room & Irish Culinary Experience of the Year 2023
• Accommodations: Castle suites with goose-down quilts & self-catering lodges
• Activities: Clay shooting, tennis, croquet, 6 km walking trail
• Weddings: Exclusive castle hire with award-winning Wedding Coordinator
• Family: Kids' club, children's playground, outdoor play equipment