Waterford Castle in Ireland is a crystal quality castle and golf paradise! Waterford Castle Hotel Golf and Country Club, located 3 miles from Waterford City, is uniquely situated on a private 31 O-acre island, surrounded by woodlands and an 18-hole championship golf course. The island dates back to the 11 th century, the castle to the 16th. Once home to the Fitzgerald family and now privately owned, the hotel combines every modern comfort, service and convenience. Come to the water's edge and a boat will ferry you across the channel of centuries. Then you take the road through a tree-lined driveway, where a thousand years ago the first inhabitants cut out a rough track to secure the settlement. Waterford Castle is both retreat and refuge, sanctuary and seclusion.

Location: Southeast coast of Ireland between Wexford and Cork. Two hours by car to Dublin.

Accommodation: The castle's 19 guest rooms and suites are bright and airy with stunning views of the estate and have been recently restored to their former splendour.

Dining: The restaurant's seasonal menus place emphasis on both Irish specialities and the finest international cuisine.

Activities & daytrips: Golf (18-hole golf course), clay pigeon shooting, deep sea fishing, horseriding, bowling, heated swimming pool, pheasant and duck hunting (during hunting season), polo. Shopping in the former Viking city of Waterford, the oldest city in Ireland and home to the world-renowned crystal factory. Rent a car and experience the" Ring of Kerry", one of the most beautiful and famous coastal roads in Europe. Or drive through the peaceful hillsides of Co. Tipperary and its sleepy picturesque villages.

Best time to travel: The hotel is open all year round

Getting there: Fly to Dublin, a connecting flight to Water­ford, then a taxi and ferry'to Waterford Castle.