County Mayo, Ireland – July 28, 2009: Ashford Castle can trace its roots back to 1228 but history buffs should fast-forward all the way to 1939 for the most pivotal year in the life of the sprawling structure in Ireland’s County Mayo. That’s when the estate, which for years served as a country home for the Guinness family, first opened as a hotel. The world would soon be at war but Ashford Castle instantly became a constant of luxurious service, warm hospitality and welcome tranquility. Now guests have one more reason to wend their way to this beautiful patch of western Ireland: a three-night celebration called “1939, What a Year!”

oakhallAshford Castle’s new “1939, What a Year!” program includes three nights in a Lake-View Deluxe Room with a complimentary upgrade to a Junior Suite, breakfast for two each morning, one table d’hôte dinner for two in the castle’s George V dining room, one dinner for two in Cullen’s at the Cottage restaurant located on the estate, a one-hour falconry lesson for two, a one-hour boat trip for two, an historical walk through the estate, a limited edition print by world-renowned Irish artist Rick Lewis, a copy of the Irish Times front page from a date in 1939 and a classic movie from 1939 to view in the room. The price of the package: €1939 (approximately $2,756), available from now through December 22, 2009.

About Ashford Castle:
Ashford Castle is set on 350 acres in County Mayo, on the shores of Lough Corrib and the River Cong, with a spectacular backdrop of woodlands, lake, river, and mountains. It features 83 guestrooms and is renowned for a range of country sports including an equestrian center, fly fishing, an exclusive nine-hole golf course and Ireland’s first school of falconry. Several dining rooms and bars, along with a gracious afternoon tea service are among the amenities.

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