The 15th century Belleek Castle is situated in 1,000 acres
of woodland and forestry, on the banks of the River Moy in County Mayo.
Ballina is the largest town in Co. Mayo and home of the famous River Moy.
The historical and romantic Belleek Castle extends a warm welcome
to travellers and visitors seeking the good life and to enjoy the facilities
of this ancestral home of the Earl of Arran. Ballina has an extremely
old history dating back to the Stone Age. There are numerous tombs (megaliths)
to be found in the area of Ballina and Mayo.
The Castle is informal, cosy and friendly, rich in decor
and antiquities with many great open fires to warm your steps back through
half a millennium. The bright and spacious bedrooms are inividually designed,
may featuring four-poster beds. Enjoy a delicous dinner
in "Granuailes Candlelight Grill Room", become involved with the
"Drunken Bullock" (the steak will be flambéed at the table) and served
from a sabre all aflame! The cuisine can usually offer a fine "Moy" salmon
caught that day or indeed succulent Connemara lamb which is always available.
A goodly measure will confront you in the "Armada
Bar" a dramatic recreation of the Captains Ward Room from the galleon
of the "Spanish Armada" , constructed from Great Oak Balks salvaged from
the galleons of the ill fated "Castile Squadron" wrecked on the Atlantic
Coast of Co. Mayo four centuries ago.
Guests may enjoy a private viewing of the Castle museum
by appointment, which includes the finest collection of 16th century armoury
housed in Ireland. Belleek Castle is close to everything
that matters: 3 Championship Golf Courses, tennis, squash, Indoor Riding
Arena - International Surfing Beaches - Pitch & Putt. Equestrian Activity
- Fishing River/Sea - untrammelled Country Riverside walks for miles,
Churches and Archaeological pursuits.
Ballina's main claim to fame is its river which is internationally
renowned as an exceptional source of salmon. As a result, the town attracts
many anglers each season. In July each year, the Ballina Street Festival
draws visitors from Ireland and further afield. For many, the highlight
of the festival is the Heritage day when the town's traders, bar and shop
owners transform their shopfronts and doorways into a replica of Victorian
times.
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