Attending an alcohol and drug rehab center in Dublin, Ireland may not be the first option that comes to mind, but it’s one that’s quietly gaining traction for a lot of Americans. In the U.S., many people face long waitlists, steep costs, and the constant frustration of navigating insurance restrictions. For people seeking immediate, world-class care, these barriers can feel overwhelming. That’s why more Americans are beginning to look further afield at addiction rehab treatment in Ireland.
At Smarmore Castle Private Clinic, we offer an alternative to the delays and complications of the U.S. medical and healthcare systems for excellence in drug addiction, alcohol addiction, gambling addiction, and other behavioral addictions. We offer: fast admissions, evidence-based treatment, and the privacy and peace of a beautiful Irish countryside setting of County Louth.



Why Are More Americans Seeking Addiction Rehab in Dublin, Ireland?
In recent years, a growing number of Americans have been looking beyond U.S. borders for drug and alcohol addiction treatment. Destinations like Mexico are common choices for medical tourism, but Europe, especially Ireland, is emerging as a unique and appealing option for those seeking privacy, high-quality care, and a tranquil setting for recovery.
Direct Flights from the US to Ireland
For Americans considering rehab in Dublin, Ireland, the journey is more straightforward than expected. Direct flights from major U.S. cities such as New York, Boston, and Chicago typically take just 6 to 8 hours, making Ireland closer than many domestic destinations on the West Coast USA.
Experience World-Class Private Rehab, Ireland
Private alcohol and drug addiction facilities like Smarmore Castle Private Clinic near Dublin, Ireland, offer a level of privacy and luxury often out of reach in the U.S. Here, patients can recover in a serene, countryside environment with 24/7 medical supervision, individualized treatment plans, and complete confidentiality.
Recover in Scenic, Cultural, and Healing Settings
Ireland’s rich cultural heritage and tranquil landscapes offer more than just a beautiful backdrop – they contribute to a deeply therapeutic environment. Many Americans find that recovering in a completely new setting allows for a fresh perspective, enhanced focus on healing, and reduced exposure to triggers.
More Affordable Than U.S. Rehab
Inpatient treatment in the United States can cost between $12,000 and $60,000 for a 60 to 90-day stay. Choosing private rehab in Ireland can offer equal or superior levels of care, which can be faster and cheaper than flying cross-country. Direct flights from major U.S. cities like New York, Boston, and Chicago make reaching rehab in Dublin, Ireland, accessible and efficient.1
Many patients who have attended rehab at Smarmore Castle from America and Canada have told us that it was cheaper for them to pay for their rehab privately and fly to Dublin than it would have been to treat their drug and alcohol addiction at home.
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Contact a member of our team for our price list today.
Paying Privately for Addiction Rehab – No Insurance Trail
For many international clients, especially those comparing treatment options in America, one of the key advantages of seeking private rehab in Ireland is the ability to self-fund treatment without involving insurance providers. This approach allows individuals to maintain full control over their recovery journey, including how, when, and whether they choose to share it.
For those seeking rehab in Dublin, Ireland, this kind of privacy can be an essential part of the healing process, one that protects not just their health, but their peace of mind.
American Insurance for Drug and Alcohol Addiction Programs in Ireland
If you do want to pay for a rehab treatment program via health insurance, we already work with the following insurance companies:
- United Health Global
- GeoBlue
- Tricare
Get in touch with your provider to double check if your personal health insurance policy will cover a 28 day addiction treatment program with us.
Call Us Today to Verify your Insurance Coverage
Contact a member of our team to find out more and verify your insurance coverage.
No Hidden Costs
Unlike many facilities in the U.S., we don’t have any hidden costs. Our fees are all inclusive, your accommodation, therapy, detox, medications, and meals all included in the price of your treatment. Our aftercare is a set additional fee that is disclosed at the beginning of your discussions with us, and any additional “add-ons” are discussed and highlighted as such so that you don’t get any surprises when it comes to payments and billing.
Smarmore Castle – A Drug and Alcohol Rehab That Feels Like a Retreat
Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Irish countryside, Smarmore Castle offers more than just world-class clinical care, it provides a peaceful escape. Set within a beautifully restored 14th-century castle, our residential rehab clinic blends historic charm with modern therapeutic excellence. Creating a space that feels like a retreat, you can rest and recuperate while looking after your physical and mental health as you take the first steps towards long-lasting recovery.
Exploring Ancestoral Roots
For some Americans, choosing rehab in Dublin, Ireland carries an even deeper significance. The opportunity to recover in a place tied to their family’s ancestral roots, adding personal resonance to the journey. Whether you’re drawn by the serenity, the heritage, or simply the change of scenery, Smarmore Castle offers a truly unique setting to recover from addiction.

World-leading Program for Substance Abuse, in Ireland
Admissions
Our friendly admissions staff will talk you through our addiction treatment program and funding options. From there, they will guide you throughout the admissions process so that you can get to our rehab clinic in Ireland safely and quickly.
Personalized Care Plan
At Smarmore Castle, treatment plans is personalised to the individual, because no two recovery journeys are the same. Whether you’re seeking alcohol rehab or drug rehab in Ireland, or support for gambling addiction, our multidisciplinary team provides compassionate, expert-led care that addresses any root causes of addiction.
Medically Managed Detox
Many rehab centers offer detox that isn’t supervized by medical professionals, which can be dangerous when trying to detox from alcohol or drugs. We make sure every person is looked after with around-the-clock medical support throughout medical detox, so that they can detox safely from drugs and alcohol with care taken to manage withdrawal symptoms and 24/7 care from a psychiatrist, doctors and medical professionals.
With decades of experience treating international clients, Smarmore Castle offers the clinical rigor of a top-tier rehab programme in a setting designed for healing and growth.
Therapy Program
Smarmore Castle is renowned for its intensive therapeutic addiction treatment program. Our therapy approach is grounded in evidence-based therapies such as 12-Step Facilitation and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), proven to support long-term recovery. All of our patients join in individual therapy and group therapy with our expert team of therapists, specialising in a range of approaches from CBT, to art therapy and sensorimotor therapy.
Holistic Approach
We believe that offering a holistic approach to our patients, treating the underlying causes of substance dependence and supporting mental health issues, as well as offering complementary therapies such as equine therapy, and aqua therapy in our swimming pool, gives our patients more tools and experiences to use in their ongoing recovery.


Swimming Pool and Gym
Our large swimming pool with sauna and steam room and spacious gym mean you can begin to focus on your physical fitness again.
Aftercare Online
If you are from the US we can arrange you to join our aftercare groups online. Alternatively we will reach out to our international network and ensure you are aligned with your local Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous groups back home in the USA.
What to Expect When Traveling from the U.S. to Rehab in Ireland
For Americans considering rehab in Dublin, Ireland, the journey is more quicker than if you were flying to parts of the West Coast USA. Direct flights from major U.S. cities such as Boston, New York, Philidelphia, and Chicago typically take around just 6 – 8 hours, making Ireland in fact closer than many domestic US destinations.
We understand that traveling abroad for treatment can feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer:
- Airport transfers
- Help with travel and accommodation planning
- Clear, step-by-step admissions guidance
- 24/7 support throughout your stay
Whether you’re coming alone or with a loved one, you’ll be welcomed with traditional Irish warmth, professionalism, and complete discretion, so you can focus on healing from the moment you arrive.

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Call Us for Information About Your Trip to Ireland
You’re Not Alone – Rehab That Feels Right for You
Making the decision to seek help, especially in another country, can feel daunting. But for many, it turns out to be the most empowering step they’ve ever taken. Choosing rehab in Dublin, Ireland isn’t about escaping life; it’s about finding the space and support you need to reclaim it.
You don’t have to face this alone. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or a loved one, we’re here to help you take that first step with confidence, privacy, and support at every stage.

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Frequently Asked Questions
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Can Americans go to rehab in Ireland?
Yes, Americans can absolutely access rehab treatment in Ireland. Clinics like Smarmore Castle Private Clinic have extensive experience working with international clients, including those from the United States. Many offer dedicated support for overseas admissions, and some even maintain partnerships with American insurance companies to make the transition to treatment abroad as seamless as possible.
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Are rehab centers cheaper in Ireland?
Yes, in many cases, rehab abroad can be more affordable than private treatment in the U.S. While inpatient rehab in America can range from $12,000 to $60,000 for a 60- to 90-day program, facilities in Ireland, like Smarmore Castle, often provide comparable or higher levels of care at a lower cost.
Even with travel expenses, many clients find that addiction programs abroad offer better value, greater privacy, and faster access to care, all without the complications of insurance.
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Is going to rehab abroad easier?
Going to a rehab center abroad might be easier than you think. Many European addiction treatment centers, like Smarmore Castle in Ireland, are experienced in helping international clients with every step of the admissions process, from travel planning and airport pickup to admissions and aftercare. With shorter wait times and fewer insurance hurdles, some clients find that going abroad actually simplifies the path to treatment.
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Are European rehabs covered by insurance?
Coverage for international rehab centers depends on your insurance provider and policy. Many international clients at Smarmore Castle choose to self-fund their treatment, which allows for greater privacy and flexibility, however we work with several health insurance companies, such as United Health Global, GeoBlue, and Tricare. If you’re hoping to pay for addiction services with insurance, it’s best to speak with your provider directly and check whether any international treatment options are available to you.
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References
- National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS). Average Cost of Drug Rehab. https://drugabusestatistics.org/cost-of-rehab/. [Accessed May 2025].