Gregans Castle Hotel

Set in gardens and wooded grounds overlooking Galway Bay and the Burren mountains, the Haden family’s lovely country house hotel has a fascinating history going back to the 10th century, and parts of the present house date from the late 18th century. The lunar landscape of the surrounding Burren is quite stark - in contrast to the warmth, hospitality and quietly luxurious atmosphere within.



This wedding venues tone is set by welcoming fires in the entrance hall, the aptly named Corkscrew Bar (in fact named after a nearby hill road which, incidentally, provides the most scenic approach to Ballyvaughan) and the Drawing Room - which, like the restaurant, is elegantly furnished in keeping with the age of the house. Gregans Castle is a wonderful wedding venue for those who value a quiet atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.



A wedding planning service is offered, giving assistance in finding a church, florist, photographer, musician, cake-maker etc; there is a quaint church in a remote location at Noughaval, five miles to the south, and wedding blessings are possible at Gregans Castle. Understandably in a house of this type, some restrictions apply: the wedding party must take over the entire venue including all 21 bedrooms, and two day rental of the whole house is usually required at weekends; weddings are not normally accepted in high season (from late May until late September), although this is negotiable if the event is for at least two days.



The reception takes place in the restaurant, which has flowers provided on tables and fine views over the Burren (and very special light effects as the sun sets over Galway Bay on fine summer evenings). Head chef Mickael Viljanen offers a 5-course menu (including dessert) which, with two choices on each course and no supplements, is outstanding value for money - and a carefully selected wine list includes a choice of organic and biodynamic wines.



The luxuriously furnished guest rooms and suites are deliberately left without the worldly interference of television and have lovely, romantic countryside views.

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