Castles and country houses top the list for places to stay in Counties Mayo, Sligo, and Roscommon. Because of the region's expansive natural beauty, these removed and esteemed establishments help bring you closer to the sublimity that has attracted and inspired legendary artists and poets alike.

Ashford Castle

Cong, Co. Mayo 094 954 6003, 1800 346 7007 (US) www.ashford.ie 200–500+ per room; suites 500–800+; S/D/F. MC/V

Pristine. Picturesque. Perfect. Ashford Castle encapsulates everything that one would expect in Ireland's premier resort. Overlooking the deeply reflective waters of the Lough Corrib, the thirteenth-century castle was built originally for the De Burgo family before the Guinness family became its proprietors. To enter Ashford is to enter an Irish fairy tale. With its oak paneling, revered art, stunningly decorated rooms with the finest amenities, casual and fine dining, and two bars, along with a spa, sauna, and gym it is a dream come true. A nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, boating, fishing, archery, clay pigeon shooting, falconry, and horseback riding are all extracurricular pursuits on hand. Splurge here to enjoy what celebrities such as Mel Gibson, Barbra Streisand, Woody Allen, and Ronald Reagan have all discovered. Access is limited to guests only; if you wish to explore the lavish grounds make a reservation for tea and explore afterward.

Stella MarisCountry House

Ballycastle, Co. Mayo 096 43 322 www.stellamarisireland.com 200–250+ per room; S/D/F. MC/V

Constructed in 1853, the Stella Maris (or “Star of the Sea”) sits tranquilly on Bunatrahir Bay. Built originally for the British Coast Guard, the manor became a convent before World War I. Now owned and operated by Chef Frances Kelly, the estate offers beautiful rooms and award-winning dining using local and organic produce. Open April–October.

Temple House

Ballymote, Co. Sligo 071 918 3329 www.templehouse.ie 90+ per person; S/D/T/F. MC/V

Located near Ballinacarrow, the renowned 1,000-acre estate of Temple House is a Georgian gem perfectly positioned to explore the often-overlooked region between Ireland's west and northwest. The value for the stay here is noteworthy and the homey and historical feel of the place is apparent.

Tree Tops B&B

Cleveragh Rd., Sligo Town 071 916 0160 treetops@iol.ie 40+ per person; S/D

Superbly located and well priced, the Tree Tops B&B makes a wonderful spot to rest in Sligo Town. For cleanliness, comfort, and pure Irish wonderfulness, this quaint home is a top choice for travelers seeking a truly local home-away-from-home experience.

Lough Key House B&B

Boyle, Co. Roscommon 071 966 2161 www.loughkeyhouse.com 45+ per person; S/D/F. MC/V

Ideally situated to explore the Lough Key Forest Park, the Lough Key House B&B is an Irish gem in its cozy comforts, hospitality, and wonderful breakfasts. Aged and refined, this 200-year-old Georgian period manor is set among the Curlew Mountains.

Castlecoote House

Castlecoote, Co. Roscommon 090 666 3794 www.castlecootehouse.com 115–190+ per room; S/D/F. MC/V.

The Castlecoote House is a restored Georgian mansion built on what used to be a sixteenth-century castle. The estate overlooks the River Suck, intersecting the Suck Valley Way. The MacGeraghty clan settled the estate, but the exact history has yet to surface completely.

Other Accommodations

Here are some other accommodations you might consider while in Counties Mayo, Sligo, and Rosscommon. (In the listings that follow, = around 25 euros per person.)