If you are looking for something a little unique to do this summer, we have the perfect picnic option for you at Ashford Castle. Throughout Covid we have all released life is about experiences and making the most of time with our loved ones so why not treat yourself and your loved one to a picnic experience at Ashford Castle.

Ashford Castle’s guests can enjoy a new al fresco dining option this summer with the launch of the luxury hotel’s Perfect Picnics, packed full of local and Irish produce and treats. Named after characters from the Quiet Man, which was filmed in Cong and on the Ashford estate, there are three Perfect Picnic menus from which to choose so that guests can enjoy a taste of the great indoors, outdoors.

Ashford Castle’s Perfect Picnics can be enjoyed after a morning exploring the 350-acre estate, a bike ride (complimentary bike hire), horse-riding or fishing.  Or, guests may prefer to head further afield and explore the Wild Atlantic Way and the magnificent scenery of nearby Connemara, before sitting down to a picnic on one of the region’s many beautiful beaches.

Priced from €65 for two for the Michaleen Flynn, guests can choose from a selection of delicious sandwiches such as Ardarl Farm ham & Kylemore cheese mustard mayonnaise or organic salmon rillette and pickled cucumber on an English muffin. Salads include a Caprese made with Toonsbridge Mozzarella and a smoked garlic dressing, and guests will also enjoy seasonal fruit and sweet treats like lemon cake and chocolate shards as well as bottled water and freshly brewed tea and coffee.

The John Wayne (€70 for two) is surpassed only by the Maureen O’Hara picnic (€80 for two), which takes things to a whole new level with the addition of organic smoked salmon, potato farls, a selection of Irish cheeses and house chutney, Irish charcuteries and pickles, brown soda bread, pickled organic egg and Kalamata olives. Guests can also add to their perfect picnic with a chilled bottle of something rather special from Ashford Castle’s cellars.

For more information www.ashfordcastle.com             

Email Reservations@ashfordcastle.com or call 094 954 6003 

Note that picnics need to be ordered 24 hrs in advance.  Available to guests only. Special dietary requirements can be catered for. Costs exclusive of 15% service charge.