The perfect venue for family breaks and entertaiment 2 10 48 5418 29 18 29 43
GLENEAGLE
CLANREE HOTEL
Ideally located for exploring beau ful Donegal and the Northwest of Ireland
LOUGH REA HOTEL & SPA
A big winner at the 2024 Irish Hotel Awards
WOODFORD DOLMEN HOTEL
Nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East
FOUR SEASONS CARLINGFORD
The ideal wedding venue se ng in the North-East
THE ROSE HOTEL
Named as Ireland’s Favourite Place to Stay in Munster at the Gold Medal Awards
ASHLING HOTEL
A luxury Dublin city hotel with a great central loca on
KENMARE BAY HOTEL, LUXURY LODGES RESORT
126 beau fully designed bedrooms and 28 self-catering holiday homes
COUNTY ARMS
Right up there with the best hotels in the Midlands
THE GLASSHOUSE HOTEL
One of Ireland’s nest 4-star hotels and has the awards to prove it
HERBERT PARK HOTEL & PARK RESIDENCE
Providing the backdrop for high-quality hospitality with a personal touch
PEMBROKE KILKENNY
Si ng on a landmark site in Kilkenny
CASTLE LESLIE ESTATE
Breathtaking lakeside views and excep onal service
THE MAJESTIC HOTEL
Your perfect seaside escape
CANADIAN TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS IMMERSE THEMSELVES IN THE ‘SENSES OF IRELAND’
ELEVEN tourism companies from the island of Ireland, together with three Canadian tour operators, joined Tourism Ireland in Canada for its 2025 ‘Senses of Ireland’ roadshow – visiting the cities ofVictoria, Kelowna, Edmonton and Ottawa.
During the week, the tourism companies from Ireland connected with over 200 Canadian travel professionals in the four cities, highlighting to them the wealth of experiences on offer
for their clients on a holiday here –from luxury hotels to iconic cultural landmarks and, of course, our worldclass hospitality and warm welcome.
The cities were selected as key locations which have the potential to grow tourism business from Canada to Ireland.
Sandra Moffatt,Tourism Ireland’s Manager Canada, said:“We are delighted that 11 tourism partners from the island of Ireland and three Canadian tour
operators joined our 2025 ‘Senses of Ireland’ roadshow, to shine a spotlight on some of the superb tourism experiences on offer right around our island.
“Our roadshow provided our industry partners from Ireland with a fantastic platform to showcase their offering to over 200 in uential Canadian travel professionals, helping to secure a greater share of their business in 2025 and beyond.”
HOTEL&TOURISMNEWS
Eoghan Murphy elected Chair of Cork Branch of the Irish Hotels Federation
EOGHAN Murphy, General Manager of Cork International Hotel has been elected Chair of the Cork Branch of the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF), which represents hotels and guesthouses across Cork City and County.
Eoghan has a hotel career spanning over two decades, having previously held the positions of General Manager with TIFCO Hotel group, Director of Operations at Park Inn by Radisson Belfast Hotel and Operations Manager at Armagh City Hotel. An active member of the IHF for many years, he brings extensive experience to the role of Branch Chair having previously served as Branch Officer and a member of the IHF’s National Council. Eoghan is a graduate of international hotel management and business at Shannon College of Hotel Management.
including the very high costs of doing business within our sector.
“On behalf of my colleagues and fellow hoteliers in Cork, I wish to acknowledge and thank Ciaran Fitzgerald for his leadership and the immense commitment he has demonstrated throughout his tenure as Cork Branch Chair. During this time, he has provided a strong voice for local hotels, advocating on behalf of our sector and wider tourism industry here in Cork.”
Commenting on his election as Branch Chair, Eoghan says: “It is a great honour to have been elected Chair of the Cork Branch of the Irish Hotels Federation. Hotels and guesthouses throughout Cork make such a vital contribution to tourism and the economy of the wider south west region. I look forward to representing members and working closely with my IHF colleagues to engage with Government and industry partners to promote our industry and address the challenges we face,
Overseas visitor gures out of kilter
“PUBLISHED gures for overseas visitors continue to be out of kilter with industry data on the ground,” says IHF Chief Executive Paul Gallagher
Commenting on the March CSO statistics for inbound tourism, Paul Gallagher, Chief Executive of the Irish Hotels Federation states that the published gures for overseas visitors continue to be out of kilter with industry data on the ground, including gures from hotels which are reporting
IHF President Michael Magner says: “I want to congratulate Eoghan on his election. His commitment to our sector and extensive experience are a tremendous asset to the IHF as we continue to advocate for members at the highest levels of Government. As Ireland’s largest indigenous employer, tourism plays a vital role supporting over 270,000 livelihoods including some 27,000 jobs throughout Cork City and County. It is therefore critical that the right conditions are in place to deliver a sustained recovery for our sector so that our wider tourism industry lives up to its full potential. I look forward to working with Janet during her term to deliver our key priorities in relation to economic growth, leadership in sustainability and supporting people development within our sector.”
a strong performance for room bookings year to date.
“The latest industry gures show that hotels achieved average room occupancies in March on a par with the same month last year while bookings for the rst quarter were up 2% year on year. From an industry perspective, this would suggest that overall tourism activity is holding up so far in 2025, which is at odds with what the CSO gures would appear to be indicating.
representatives of the CSO to explore the gures in the context of wider industry data, and we look forward to further engagement on this matter.”
“This is a concern given how vital it is to have as complete a picture as possible for how tourism, our largest indigenous industry, is performing.Along with industry partners, we have met with
In a given year, the rst quarter would typically account for approximately 20% of overseas visitors to Ireland and a corresponding proportion of total hotel stays – made up of both domestic and overseas guests. Commenting on the outlook for rest of the year, Mr Gallagher says:“While industry gures show a positive start to the year, we are beginning to see a slight softening in the market with forward bookings currently down 2% out to August.We are hopeful that this will pick up into the summer.
HOTEL&TOURISMNEWS
THE SANDYMOUNT HOTEL MARKS 70 REMARKABLE YEARS WITH A MONTH OF CELEBRATION
THE Sandymount Hotel, a beloved landmark in leafy Dublin 4, celebrated 70 years of continuous family ownership and hospitality this May – longer than any other hotel property in Dublin. Originally opened in 1955 as a modest bed and breakfast, the hotel has since grown into one of the capital’s most respected four star properties.
In an era when many city hotels are under overseas corporate ownership, the Loughran family remains committed to offering a uniquely Irish and independent experience.The Sandymount Hotel is now recognised as one of Dublin’s best-regarded family-run stays—still proudly owned and operated by the third generation of the Loughran family.
To mark the milestone, the hotel hosted a celebratory event for the local community, long-standing staff, and friends of the hotel. In addition, visitors could avail of a 20% discount on bed and breakfast bookings made in May for all stays until the end of December. Those taking advantage of the offer could avail of one of the hotel’s recently refurbished rooms, part of an ongoing programme of upgrades that honour the hotel’s heritage while embracing modern comfort.
The bar team has also crafted a number of 70th Anniversary Cocktails inspired by the hotel’s history, which include Irish Maid,The Aristocrats Sand’E’mount Tea, Mount Herbert’s Comfort and The Temperance Turn.
Located on Herbert Road in the heart of Sandymount, the hotel has been witness to—and a participant in—decades of change in Dublin. From the arrival of the DART and the construction of the East Link Bridge, to the rise of the nearby IFSC, the
ever-iconic Poolbeg Chimneys and the erection of the Molly Malone statue, The Sandymount Hotel has remained a steadfast presence in a rapidly evolving city.
It all began in 1955, when George and Rosaleen Loughran purchased No. 7 Herbert Road and opened a small bed and breakfast to support their growing family.As demand grew, so did the hotel, gradually expanding into neighbouring properties and evolving into the much-loved 187-bedroom hotel it is today. Rebranded from Mount Herbert Hotel to The Sandymount Hotel in 2011 to re ect its unique sense of place, the hotel is now led by the third generation of the Loughran family, who have recently overseen an elegant refurbishment of rooms and guest areas. As part of its forward-thinking approach, the owners also embraced sustainability, with recent upgrades including the installation of electric vehicle charging points—meeting the needs of modern travellers while staying true to its
community-focused ethos.
Co-owner Gerard Loughran said: “This anniversary is deeply personal for me, my family and our loyal staff. It’s not just about a building or a number — it’s about the thousands of moments, memories and connections that have shaped The Sandymount Hotel and our family over seven decades.We’re incredibly proud to continue the legacy my grandparents began back in 1955, and to do so alongside a team whose loyalty, kindness and care have been the heart of this place from the beginning. Our wonderful guests, past and present, are at the heart of it all.As is the community that we are lucky to be part of here in Sandymount.This celebration is for everyone who has played a part in our story, past, present and future!”
Set within one of Dublin’s most prestigious coastal neighbourhoods, with a beach and the Aviva stadium on its doorstep, the hotel has a real sense of warmth and community — a true original, still going strong after 70 years.
Acitybreak, madeeasy.
At Pembroke Kilkenny, you stay in the most ideal location— just steps from Kilkenny Castle, Butler Gardens, the Design Centre, and the Medieval Mile. Everything worth seeing, doing, tasting, and exploring is right here.
Our beautifully designed guestrooms and suites offer calm, comfort and quiet after a day of exploring. Voted Boutique Hotel of the Year and Silver award recipient for Best Breakfast in Ireland, this is where locals send friends—and where guests return, time and time again.
Winner of Leinster’s Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine, Stathams serves honest Irish food with a modern touch. The cocktails are sharp, the wine list is thoughtful, and the atmosphere always hits the right note.
Locally owned and quietly confident, Pembroke Kilkenny focuses on doing the simple things well. It’s why good stays start here.
HOTEL&TOURISMNEWS
WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT THE WEDDINGSONLINE AWARDS 2025
THE Irish wedding industry celebrated the winners of the prestigious weddingsonline awards 2025 at a grand gala dinner.These awards recognise the nest wedding venues and services across Ireland, highlighting the exceptional quality and dedication within the industry.
Winners on the night included:
Hotel Venue of the Year Connaught –Lough Rynn Castle
Hotel Venue of the Year Leinster –Rathsallagh House
Hotel Venue of the Year Munster -Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel & Spa
Hotel Venue of the Year Ulster –Cabra Castle
Lough Rynn Castle not only won the HotelVenue of theYear Connaught but also took home the title of Overall
These award-winning venues exemplify the high standards and exceptional
service that the Irish wedding industry is known for.Whether couples are looking for a historic castle, a charming country house, or a luxurious hotel, Ireland offers a wealth of stunning options to make their wedding day truly unforgettable.
Two-Night Active Break
In
Ireland’s Heartlands
Enjoy a two-night stay with Breakfast, Four Course Dinner, Afternoon Tea, visit to Birr Castle & more!
From only €360 total stay for two people
Book now: countyarms.ie or 057 9120791 County Arms, Birr, Co. Offaly, R42 Y568
Venue of theYear. Its combination of luxurious accommodations and breathtaking natural beauty makes it a standout choice for couples looking to celebrate their special day in style.
HOTEL&TOURISMNEWS
Ciara Faherty, The Castlecourt Hotel wins Irish Hotels Federation Award
CIARA Faherty, from Castlecourt Hotel’s Sales & Marketing team, Westport Co. Mayo, has been named the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) National Employee of the Year. Now in its eighth year, the award celebrates and recognises hotel team members who have made an outstanding contribution to their workplace. Michael Magner, President of the IHF presented Ms Faherty with her award at the IHF’s Annual Conference in The Gleneagle Hotel& INEC Killarney.
Congratulating Ms Faherty and the other 11 nominees shortlisted for the award; Mr Magner paid tribute to the high calibre of people working within the sector.
‘’I am delighted to present Ciara with the IHF National Employee of the Year award. Her dedication, hard work and unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding service to her customers is truly admirable. Across the country, hotel and guesthouse teams go above and beyond to create memorable experiences for guests, showcasing the best of what makes Irish hospitality so great.’’
IHF Mayo Chair, Declan Heneghan said: “On behalf of all our members in Mayo, I would like to congratulate Ciara on winning this amazing award. Ciara is a fantastic ambassador for our hotels sector. She consistently
goes above and beyond in delivering excellent service when interacting with customers and guests. She is a testament to the thousands of hard-working front facing hotel team members throughout the country, who deliver genuine hospitality and customer care every day. Well done Ciara.”
Mr Magner also highlighted the regional Branch winners ‘’A special word of congratulations to our 11 Branch winners also who we are celebrating here tonight. It is their passion and enthusiasm that set them apart to make it to this stage.’’
Mr Magner also took the opportunity to acknowledge the over 66,000 people working throughout Ireland’s hotel sector nationwide and emphasised the diverse range of career opportunities showcased in this year’s list of nominees and local Branch winners.
‘’At the core of every hotel and guesthouse are its people and fostering their growth is key to our industry’s continued success.
“The IHF is committed to supporting individuals on this journey, and through our Quality Employer Programme and employee initiatives, we are aiming to secure hospitality as a career path of choice for people across Ireland.’’
ONE WORLD FOR YOUR WORLDS…
Situated in the heart of Killarney, Co Kerry, Gleneagle is the perfect venue for family breaks and entertainment. Hotel & Tourism Ireland touched base with its General Manager John Dolan to hear all about what is one of the country’s top hotels as well as his personal success having been named
‘General Manager of the Year’ at the prestigious Irish Hotel Awards.
Athird-generation family business, Gleneagle Group was originally founded in 1957 and today remains under the guardianship of the O’Donoghues, led by Patrick O’Donoghue.
It’s headquartered on the Muckross Road, Killarney, Co Kerry, where Gleneagle stands as a testament to excellence, offering worldclass hospitality and unparalleled accommodations.
It also boasts the largest entertainment arena in Ireland outside of Dublin - Gleneagle Arena – and has
279 inviting bedrooms as well as 32 selfcatering apartments.
Altogether, Gleneagle is currently operating with a team of 450 staff, has a diverse range of offerings and is a sought-after destination for conferences, meetings, socials, weddings, concerts and family vacations.
Its General Manager John Dolan has been an integral part of the team for 18 years.
Prior to his move to Killarney all those years ago, the Manchester native spent much of his working life based in the Middle East and Asia and immersed himself in the hospitality industries in
those parts of the world, he also spent time learning his trade in places like in Switzerland, Bermuda, Egypt, Dubai before moving to Australia.
Hotel and Tourism caught up with John recently to hear more about his background, business at the moment at Gleneagle and the award success which he says he’s “over the moon” with.
“While I was in Asia I worked in Korea, Guam and was involved in opening up a 600-bedroom hotel in Taiwan.” He then moved to Osaka in Japan,“while I was in Japan, my daughter was around three years of age and one
of the guys that I used to work for in South Korea, had returned back to Ireland and opened up The Landmark Hotel in Carrick-on-Shannon.”
“So, I used to work for Ciaran Kelly in Asia and he asked me to come back and work for him in his hotel in Carrick-onShannon.That’s how I ended up back in Ireland and I can honestly say that my rst year back was a culture shock after being in Asia. It was very interesting to say the least.”
“While I was in Carrick-on-Shannon, we had up to 100 weddings a year and we won the best wedding venue three years on the trot.The hotel
was small and I felt I needed a bigger challenge having always worked in large properties. I ended up accepting the position of General Manager here at Gleneagle.”
The move on John’s part was born out of him seeking a bigger challenge in his professional career.
Since becoming the General Manager at Gleneagle, his tenure has seen a monumental refurbishment of the property.
John’s meticulous attention to detail, commitment to quality and visionary mindset have ensured that every aspect of the property exudes luxury, from the
tastefully designed rooms to the inviting self-catering apartments.
In 2021, the Gleneagle Hotel and Apartments upgraded from a three-star hotel to a prestigious four-star standard, which itself had been a huge motivator for John from the moment he assumed the role.
“The hotel I worked in in Japan was a 525-bedroom hotel and we were doing around 650 weddings a year, huge banquets and conferencing. So what really moved me on was the challenge. I needed a bigger challenge when I came to Ireland and Gleneagle offered that for me,” John outlined.
“It was a huge undertaking in terms of different values around driving different types of business.
“You’re going from conferences to concerts and, at that time, we also had 75 two-bedroom apartments attached to the hotel.
“So, that worked better for me. It kept me occupied and kept my brain active to say the least.”
“Coming into this hotel at the time, the challenge was obviously to get it over the line from a three-star hotel to a four-star hotel and we achieved that in 2021.”
Fast-forward to today and business is very much thriving at Gleneagle.
2024 saw it enjoying a hugely impressive 80% occupancy and, according to its GM, business on the books is looking very positive for the rest of this year and, furthermore, he says that the signs are “extremely good” for 2026.
This past October saw the above remarkable feats recognised on a national scale when John Dolan won overall ‘General Manager of the Year’ at the prestigious Irish Hotel Awards 2024.
The ceremony, which took place at the Johnstown Estate Hotel on October 22nd, saw the giants of the Irish hospitality game convening at the
En eld venue to celebrate the awards which honoured the best and the brightest in the industry.
Speaking on his own award success, John described it as “a special accolade” and was quick to credit the Gleneagle team above all else.
“I was absolutely over the moon,” he stated.“I think it was back in 2015/2016 that I was runner-up for the IHI Award as Manager of theYear. So, I never thought I’d actually achieve it, but to achieve it has been a dream.”
“It’s a special accolade and you only get it through hard work and continually elevating yourself, being innovative, having the customer focus and just
being passionate about what you do. I think the passion reaps its rewards and I think getting this reward, as the Hotel Manager of theYear, has been nothing but brilliant for me.
“It’s been recognised by the team here as well and, I always say success only comes with the team around you. You can’t do it on your own.”
So, with all of that considered, the burning question to ask the man that knows is:What has been the secret to the continued success of Gleneagle?
How has a property which, from modest beginnings as a small countryhouse hotel that opened in 1957, stood the test of time and remained very
much the heartbeat of Killarney down through the decades?
“If we look at our repeat business here, we have about 88% repeat business, which is phenomenal,” the General Manager stated.
“We have something for everyone. We’re not just a family hotel –we’re a conference destination, an entertainment venue and a place where every guest, no matter why they’re here, feels looked after.That variety is what makes Gleneagle so unique.”
“So, again, it’s all those different segments that we’re able to offer and all those different touch points that guests
can really enjoy. I think that’s actually helped us a lot because we’re a diverse business.”
That diversity, as well as John’s exceptional leadership, are qualities which have certainly stood to this hotel over the past two decades.
Since ‘Day One’, the General Manager has recognised that the heart of Gleneagle’s success lies in the happiness of its guests and, looking at the coming months and also towards next year, John says he’s eager to keep on the same course.
“My hopes and wishes are that we continue successfully and that the business continues to grow, which I’m sure it will.Again, it’s down to the team that are here at Gleneagle.
“We’re in a people business and I truly believe that when you’re looking after the people that work for you, you can make great inroads to success,” he concluded.
THE CLANREE HOTEL, LETTERKENNY IS THE IDEAL PLACE TO RELAX AND REVIVE
Set for another busy summer season, the Clanree Hotel in Letterkenny is ideally located for exploring beautiful Donegal and the Northwest of Ireland. Hotel & Tourism touched base with its General Manager Micheál Naughton to hear more about this fabulous hotel, its recent renovation work and what he feels sets it apart from the competition.
This year marks a quarter century since the Clanree Hotel was rst established and today business is very much thriving for the popular Letterkenny property.
Owned by the McGettigan Group, an Irish-owned company with
luxury properties in eight locations throughout the country, the Clanree Hotel provides its guests with a comfortable base for exploring Donegal and is conveniently located only a few minutes’ drive from the vibrant town centre of Letterkenny.
It has 121 beautifully designed
bedrooms and a fantastic Leisure Centre, which includes a 20-metre swimming pool, a separate kids’ pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and an extensive gym.
The Serene Wellness Health & Beauty also offers mini facials to manicures and pedicures to pamper packages for guests to treat themselves.
This four-star award-winning hotel is also host to Donegal’s premier conference venue. Comprised of a diverse selection of meeting, conference, exhibition and banqueting rooms, the Clanree’s Conference & Event Centre is truly the ultimate destination.
When it comes to live sports, live music and great tunes, McGettigans Bar & Restaurant has you covered, serving delicious food up until 10pm, while families are known to travel from far and near to enjoy the delights of the ve course Sunday Lunch at the Clanree Hotel.
The hotel itself operates with 150 staff between full and part-time and its
General Manager is popular Tir Chonaill County native Micheál Naughton whom was good to take some time recently from his busy schedule to update Hotel & Tourism on the happenings at the Clanree Hotel lately.
“Business is not bad at the moment here,” he said.“St Patrick’s weekend was good for us here and Easter was good as well. Overall, we can’t complain.
“Our hotel would do a big commercial business during the week Monday through Thursday in relation to reps and workers, with a small bit of leisure as well.
“Our weekends then are mostly made up of leisure and events.We’d be a big
wedding and country weekend venue, like, for example, this weekend is a big country weekend here at the Clanree and we’re completely booked out with it.
“We’re probably the newest country venue in the Northwest at the moment and that should do fairly good for us as well.”
The Clanree Hotel is a popular wedding reception venue in the Northwest of the country as well, combining luxury, delicious food and a superb service.
The hotel’s Shellbridge Suite is tastefully styled and its banqueting menus can be tailored to the happy couple’s preferences and budget.
Whether planning an intimate family event or larger celebrations of up to 500, the hotel’s dedicated team are on hand to ensure everything runs like clockwork on the big day.
The property has the perfect backdrop with some stunning bridal photo opportunities, and its sweeping ‘Gone with the Wind’ style staircase affords the most breath-taking memories.
Outside there is an original stone arch bridge surrounded by native ora, a quaint relic of the Donegal Railway which has been lovingly restored by local craftsmen and, alternatively, theVictorian-style Gazebo and a garden walkway for creating perfect photographic memories.
Indeed, the hotel has hosted countless unforgettable weekends over the last two-and-a-half decades and it has continuously reinvested in itself during those years as well.
The most recent renovation works at the Clanree took place last year, as its GM outlined.
“We did a lot of work in the last year. Between the whole lot we would’ve spent nearly the guts of €2m,” said Micheál.
Committed to sustainability,“We changed our heating system to a biomass boiler and we put in our own well, and also installed solar panels as well.
As part of our decarbonising programme , we opted for a prefabricated “Turnkey” plantroom with a 500kW biomass boiler supplied by CHP Mechanical Services.The hotel now bene ts from an annual carbon savings of 433 ton and a substantial annual fuel savings with a return on investment
period of less than 3 years.The hotel was also eligible for the SEAI 15-year government support scheme called the Support Scheme for Renewable Heat.
As most of the work with our modular plantroom was completed off site this minimised the disruption to the hotel’s operations.
“We also carried out energy saving measures inside.We changed all lighting over to LED lighting, and put in the Heatboss heating system in all of the bedrooms which allows the guests to tailor the heating to their needs.
“In December, we renovated our lobby area with new furnishings, curtains and carpets.We upgraded our bedroom corridors with new carpets and decor. In 2023 there was also a completely new dining room put in which can seat over
200 people.”
With all the right pieces in place, the team at the Clanree are now relishing what they hope will be another busy summer season at the Letterkenny venue.
“We’re looking forward to summer. The last few weeks have been great weather-wise and, if we get the weather, we have a beautiful product and that with great value here up in Donegal,” the GM stated.
“The tour business will be starting to kick in now in the next few weeks. We had our winter series there with American Tours, two tour buses, which was very good.
“It was basically Americans coming into the hotel in the off-season, which was great, it started in November and
ended in March.”
So, all of that considered, the clear question is what has been the secret behind the continued success of the Clanree Hotel to date?
What is it about this four-star property that sees its guests choosing it rst ahead of other competitors out there?
“The one thing about the Clanree is that it’s very spacious. Our bedrooms are very big and you also have great parking around the hotel,” Micheál pointed out.
“That’s very important for guests now and there’s no charging for our parking here.We have a huge area out the back of the hotel.
“I suppose the one thing that makes us different at this hotel is our staff.We
have great staff and very friendly staff, which is something that would always be commented on in our reviews and that.”
A man well-known to have plenty of irons in the re throughout his life, Micheál himself just nished serving a four-year term as President of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association.
He described the role as a huge personal “honour” and it came to a fantastic end this past March when the annual LGFA Congress was held in Letterkenny for the rst time ever at none other than the Clanree Hotel.
“We had the LGFA Congress up here for the rst time ever on the rst weekend of March and that was great for tourism in Donegal because you’re bringing people from all over
the 32 counties, from the UK and all our international units as far away as Australia,” he said.
“It was a great thing and I enjoyed my four years (as LGFA President) immensely. It was a huge honour to lead the LGFA and the All-Ireland nals day in Croke Park is a really special day for our association.
“We have made huge strides as an association. Hopefully, in the next two years, we’ll be integrated all as one and have a new GAA as one association. That’s the plan.”
Along with having held the LGFA’s presidency, Micheál also serves as a Donegal County Councillor and, to say the least, it all combines to keep him a busy man 12 months a year.
“As the saying always goes,‘If you want
something done, you ask a busy man’, so it’s all about timing. I was very much involved in the community and always have been,” he said.
“Before that I served on the LGFA county board in Donegal, Ulster Council and that. I also managed the Donegal ladies and we won an All-Ireland title in 2010.
“I’m blessed that I have a good wife that doesn’t mind when I go away, and two young kids as well. It’s not easy on her all the time but, in fairness, I’m blessed to have her and it allows me to do what I do.”
Looking at the months ahead for the Clanree Hotel, its General Manager doesn’t shy away from the fact that there will be challenges to come.
In saying that, he’s always been an optimist at heart and rmly believes in the product that Donegal itself offers as a county.
“It’s dif cult, we’re not going to say it’s not.We welcome theVAT reduction as soon as possible,” he said.
“It would’ve been nicer if it came in. I think this year’s going to be very dif cult for tourism and we all know that going out to shop ourselves that our weekly shop has gone up.The cost of living and that.
“It’s happening on a weekly basis and it is dif cult to be in business.The minimum wage has gone up, now the pension scheme is going to come in in September and you also have the extra ve days sick pay that you have to pay. I call them an extra ve days holidays because everybody takes them because they’re there and they get paid for them. That’s just how it is.
“It will be a dif cult year, I’ve no doubt, but I still think that we have a great product in Donegal in our tourism. I think we have a huge lot to offer and we have exceptional value up here.”
The GM concluded:“As you are a little bit cautious and a little bit worried, I always believe in looking at the glass as half full and I think it will be good enough, but it will be tight and you have to watch your costs.”
BEST IN THE WEST
Lough Rea Hotel & Spa underlined its status as one of Ireland’s leading hotels by winning big at the 2024 Irish Hotel Awards in the Johnstown Estate, En eld.
The luxury 4-Star hotel overlooking the majestic Loughrea Lake in Co. Galway and ideally located just off the M6 Motorway came up trumps in four categories: General Manager of theYear – Connacht; Wedding Planner of theYear –
Connacht; Highly Commended Duty Manager of theYear; and Afternoon Tea of theYear – Connacht. It was a night of celebration for three members of the Lough Rea Hotel & Spa team in particular, namely Damien McManus, who scooped the General Manager of theYear award; Nicole O’Reilly, who was
named Wedding Planner of theYear; and Aoife Nee, who was Highly Commended in the Duty Manager category.
In addition, Lough Rea Hotel & Spa was shortlisted for Event Manager of theYear (Ciara Hinchon Quinn), Marketing Manager of theYear (Klaudia Parzniewska), Restaurant Manager of the
Year (Clayton Fernandez), Hotel Bar of theYear, Business Hotel of theYear, Local Hotel of theYear, Social Media Award, Spa Experience of theYear,Wedding Hotel of theYear, Intimate Wedding Venue of theYear, 4 Star Hotel of the Year as well as the winning Afternoon Tea of theYear entry.
The awards highlight the hotel’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional service and guest experiences in the Connacht region, and came on the back of Damien also winning Highly Commended Best Hotel General Manager at the 2024 Irish Hospitality Awards.These accolades sit proudly alongside the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, which ranks the Lough Rea Hotel & Spa among
the top 10% of hotels worldwide for delivering fantastic customer service, the 2024 Europe Travel & Hospitality Awards’ Hotel & Restaurant of theYear in Co. Galway and the Wedding Dates’ Top-Rated WeddingVenue in Ireland for 2023 and ‘24. Opened in 2008, the hotel is renowned for delivering wonderful wedding experiences.
“We are very proud of our team at Lough Rea Hotel and these awards truly show their hard work and dedication,” enthuses Damien, who been leading the hotel with distinction for the past four years and was a worthy award winner thanks to his commitment to excellence, ability to cultivate a motivated and dedicated team, and focus on delivering exceptional guest experiences.
Nestled just outside the quaint town of Loughrea, the Lough Rea Hotel & Spa’s location combines the tranquillity of a rural setting with the convenience of easy access to Galway City and the Wild Atlantic Way.Whether you’re heading to the famed Galway Races or looking for a simple, stylish night away, it caters for all your needs.
Boasting 91 bedrooms, extensive Shore Island Spa, ample free car parking on site and complimentary high speed WIFI, it is the ideal place to relax in comfort. Guests can enjoy the famous Rooftop Garden Bar, which boasts panoramic views of Loughrea Lake and the Galway countrywide, experience some ne dining at The Abbey Restaurant, enjoy a more casual
atmosphere at the Lir Bar & Brasserie or indulge in Lough Rea Hotel & Spa’s award-winning Afternoon Tea sat in the Lir Lounge.
Set in an oasis of calm, the exquisite Shore Island Spa promises an experience of complete relaxation and indulgence. From massages to pedicures, your options are endless at Shore Island Spa which was named Best Connacht Spa in 2023 by RSVP Magazine.
Lough Rea Hotel & Spa also hosts several live concerts and events throughout the year. From comedy, tribute bands and country music stars,
it has something for everyone.You can enjoy delicious dining ahead of the show and stay overnight afterwards to make a real occasion of your night out.
One of six properties within the Só Hotel Group, Lough Rea Hotel & Spa promises the ultimate 4 Star luxury experience that is contemporary in style and genuine with service and hospitality. Whether staying for business or leisure, it is the perfect choice for guests.
Furthermore, the Lough Rea Hotel & Spa has some of the best corporate facilities in Ireland. It is the ideal location for conferencing in Galway without
the hassle of Galway traf c, catering for job interviews right up to company conferences and national events for up to 500 delegates.All suites provide guests with the most up-to-date technology along with comfort, privacy, space and exceptional service.
The Lough Rea Hotel & Spa is the ultimate wedding venue.The stunning De Dannan Suite features Murano glass chandeliers, luxurious velvet drapery and interchangeable lighting to suit the theme of the wedding. Situated off the Piano Lounge, where guests can relax and enjoy a cocktail, the Sonnagh Suite
is a fabulous space for creative surprises or ideal as a games and movie room to entertain the little ones.
The Lough Rea Hotel & Spa is licensed for civil wedding and civil partnership ceremonies. Couples can exchange their vows against the panoramic backdrop of the lake and distant mountains of the fourth- oor Slieve Aughty Suite, while the Shore Island Spa is the perfect retreat for the bridal party to prepare and pamper themselves for the special day.An experienced team is on hand to make your wedding day everything you have ever imagined.
“We have 75 weddings already booked in for this year,” explains Damien, who is a native of Arigna, Co. Roscommon.
“We’re busy all-year round with weddings, conferences – for which we have six meeting rooms – spa breaks and lots of family gatherings.We’re the heart and soul of Loughrea and get great support from the local community on a daily basis.We’re the ideal place for special occasions.
“We have a great name for hosting weddings and pride ourselves in delivering exemplary service, food and a memorable occasion for all of our brides, grooms and wedding parties.We are very proud to be recognised as the Top-Rated WeddingVenue in Ireland for the last two years. Based on glowing reviews and heartfelt testimonials from couples on www.weddingdates.ie, the award highlights our commitment to creating unforgettable wedding experiences,” the affable General Manager concludes.
LEINSTER’S 4-STAR HOTEL OF THE YEAR
With 81 beautifully designed bedrooms, the Woodford Dolmen Hotel is nestled in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East. Hotel & Tourism sat down with General Manager Colin Duggan to uncover the story behind this award-winning Carlow hotel, its exceptional team, and its well-earned triumphs at the Irish Hotel Awards.
The Woodford Dolmen Hotel enjoys a prime location just ve minutes from Carlow Town, beautifully perched on the banks of the River Barrow. Guests can take in the sweeping views of the Killeshin Hills or enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Carlow Town, offering the best of both worlds — serenity and excitement.
Colin Duggan, a proud Carlow native, has been a cornerstone of the hotel’s journey for a quarter of a century, taking on the General Manager role two decades ago. His extensive experience, including early career stops at the Keadeen Hotel and the Seven Oaks Hotel, has been pivotal in shaping the
Woodford Dolmen’s growth.
Re ecting on the hotel’s evolution, Colin shared:
“We have 125 staff now, up from about 80 ve years ago.The plan for 2026 is to expand with 40 more bedrooms, a leisure centre, and a spa, bringing us to approximately 175 rooms.”
Having steered the hotel through the 2008 recession and its emergence from receivership under Tom O’Loughlin’s ownership in 2013, Colin emphasized the importance of continuous investment in both the property and its people.
Today, the hotel thrives, buoyed by strong pro tability despite rising
operational costs — a testament to the exceptional team spirit driving the hotel forward.
THE TEAM BEHIND THE SUCCESS Of course, no success story is complete without its key players.
The Woodford Dolmen Hotel’s achievements are deeply rooted in its talented and dedicated management team:
Clare Kavanagh,Assistant General Manager, treats every wedding she coordinates with the utmost personal care, ensuring couples have unforgettable days.
Brian Redmond, Operations Manager, oversees the entire running of the hotel
with a sharp eye for improvement and excellence.
Caolan Prendergast, Head Chef, began in the hotel’s wash-up area and honed his craft in Michelin-star kitchens before returning to lead an exceptional culinary team.
Aisling Maher, Sales, Marketing and Strategy Manager, ensures that the world knows the Woodford Dolmen name. She keeps the team focused on the hotel’s mission, passionately championing customer care while aligning closely with the hotel’s ethos and future strategy.
Catriona Brennan, Financial Controller, plays a crucial role in the hotel’s sustainable development. Her stewardship has ensured a deep respect for every euro spent, helping drive
pro tability while maintaining service excellence.
Lucia Popa,Accommodation Manager, has fostered an outstanding housekeeping team, instilling highlevel cleaning standards, attention to detail, and innovation that consistently impresses guests and inspectors alike.
As Colin proudly remarked:
“Our strengths lie in the quality of our people — whether it’s the young waiter or the senior manager, each contributes to the hotel’s success.”
CELEBRATING MAJOR WINS
The Woodford Dolmen Hotel’s recent accolades at the Irish Hotel Awards are a tting testament to its team’s dedication.Winning both ‘Excellence
in Service – Overall’ and ‘4 Star Hotel of theYear – Leinster’, the hotel was recognized nationally for the standards it maintains daily.
“It’s an acknowledgment of the hard work everyone has put in,” Colin said.
“Bringing the hotel from three stars to four stars was a signi cant achievement, requiring major investment — not just in the building, but in our people.”
THE HEARTBEAT OF THE HOTEL
Weddings are central to the hotel’s success, with an average of 65 celebrations a year.The property offers stunning ceremony spaces, both indoors and on the picturesque grounds beside the river. Personalisation remains key, with innovative additions such as a
vintage ice cream cart adding unique air to each wedding package.
“The weddings are the heartbeat of the hotel,” Colin said.“And Clare Kavanagh leads that area with immense passion and creativity.”
A COMMITMENT TO GUESTS
Beyond the weddings and awards, what truly sets the Woodford Dolmen Hotel apart is its unwavering commitment to guest satisfaction.
“Our unique selling point is a friendly, guest- rst team,” Colin explained.“Every point of contact with guests is treated as an opportunity to deliver a positive, lasting impression.And if we miss the
mark, we work hard to understand why and improve.”
Constructive feedback from platforms like TripAdvisor is seen as an essential tool for growth, reinforcing the team’s ethos of constant enhancement.
LOOKING AHEAD
The future looks bright for both the hotel and Carlow itself.As a former President of the County Carlow Chamber of Commerce and a current board member of both the Chamber and Carlow Tourism, Colin continues to champion local development.
“Carlow is on the cusp of something great,” Colin said.“It’s an exciting time,
and the hotel is perfectly positioned to help showcase all that the county has to offer.”
With expansion plans underway and an elite team steering the ship, the Woodford Dolmen Hotel’s next chapter promises to be just as remarkable as its journey so far.
WOODFORD DOLMEN HOTEL
KilkennyRoad,Carlow,R93N207
Tel:+353599142002
Email:info@woodforddolmenhotel.ie
Web:www.woodforddolmenhotel.ie
FOUR SEASONS CARLINGFORD –THE IDEAL WEDDING VENUE SETTING
Nestled beneath the stunning Cooley Mountains and offering panoramic views of Carlingford Lough, the Four Seasons Carlingford is the perfect venue for conferences, meetings and corporate events. It’s also a fabulous wedding venue setting, as its recent success at the (Weddingsuppliers.ie) National Wedding Industry Awards suggests, so Hotel & Tourism Ireland caught up with its Head of Sales and Marketing Natalie Haake to find out more.
With 58 elegant bedrooms, the Four Seasons Carlingford is a hidden gem which is situated in one of Ireland’s most magical towns.
A small town with a big charm, Carlingford, Co Louth is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere with the Cooley Mountains as a backdrop and Carlingford Castle sitting on the beautiful shores of Carlingford Lough. Its four-star hotel based in the Liberties of Carlingford on the Greenore Road prides itself on offering its guests a warm, friendly welcome and exceptional cuisine, as well as a top-tier
service.
Established in 1997, the Four Seasons Carlingford currently employs a team of 100 staff and has two different room types; executive bedrooms and signature rooms plus a bridal suite to go along with its 58 bedrooms.
Natalie Haake is an integral part of the team as the hotel’s Head of Sales and Marketing and spoke to Hotel & Tourism Ireland about her own background, the hotel’s award success in February and what sees its guests choosing it rst ahead of the competition.
“I’m working here two-and-a-half years now, I’m originally from Liverpool and, back in the UK, I used to do a lot of
work for football clubs,” she outlined.
“I did work for Chelsea Football Club very much looking after the sales events side of the business and then I was also involved with Watford FC and Tottenham FC as well and my role there was heading up the Sales and Marketing team.
“Then I made the move over to Ireland about ve years ago, just before Covid, and the Four Seasons was the rst hospitality hotel within Ireland that I’ve worked in.”
She added:“The experience so far has been brilliant. Everyone’s very welcoming.There’s a lot of Irish culture, lots of craic and the hotel is a very
enjoyable place to work. We have a sister hotel over in Monaghan.The Four Seasons Hotel & Leisure Club, Monaghan is celebrating 55 years in business this year and in that time it has developed an excellent reputation for its hospitality and customer service.
The Four Seasons Hotel, Carlingford celebrated its 20th Birthday in April this year. It has undergone several renovations over the years and now boasts upgraded guest accommodation, Thermal & Wellness suite (containing a Himalayan Salt Cave, Infrared Sauna, side by side Hot Tubs, a leisure club; 18m swimming pool, jacuzzi and steam room, gym facilities: Experience Showers plus
Ireland’s rst sun meadows:Vitamin D Therapy and Collagen Light Therapy).
The most recent works at the Four Seasons Carlingford have taken place over these last 18 months following a ood in October 2023 which saw the hotel unfortunately having to close its doors.
It’d be the following March before those doors re-opened to customers again and, with 12 months having passed since then, Natalie is glad to report that things are back to normal again with business very much thriving at the moment.
“Yes the ood had a huge impact on our business, but things are good now.
We’re on target with our weddings and have just launched our winter weddings package. So business is promising for us,” she said.
An essential part to that business is the newly renovated Lough Lounge Bar & Restaurant which specialises in providing premium quality modern Irish cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal and local produce.
Known as one of the nest restaurants in Carlingford, it has a mesmerising outdoor deck with views of the private gardens, the Cooley Mountains and Carlingford Lough and provides customers with a wide variety of fantastic menu options.
A range of food options are provided throughout the day which will delight your palate and introduce you to a variety of cuisines that have been compiled for affordable glamour.
‘Lough Lounge’ is another string in this fabulous hotel’s bow, but perhaps the venue itself for couples looking to celebrate their big day is what separates it from the competition most.
WEDDINGS
This year is set to see the Four Seasons Carlingford hosting 110 wedding receptions, with previous years
having seen the hotel stage anywhere between 90 to 160 receptions at its exceptional venue in a 12-month period.
In February, the National Wedding Industry Awards recognised the idyllic wedding venue that this hotel truly is by naming it as Leinster’s ‘Hotel Wedding Venue of the Year’ at its 2025 award ceremony in Johnstown House Estate.
Speaking on the award success, the Four Seasons Carlingford’s Head of Sales and Marketing said that it was one in which the team were immensely proud of.
“It’s an incredible honour and a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team,” Natalie beamed.
“It rewards the fact that people choose us for the most important day of their life and, obviously, recognises the level of service and attention to detail. So, to be recognised on such a prestigious platform as well, it really motivates us to continue raising the bar and offering the service for future weddings.”
So, all of that considered, the burning
question is what is it about the Four Seasons Carlingford that sees its guests choosing it rst ahead of other hotels?
For Natalie, she sees the excellent service combined with the stunning surroundings as a major selling point.
“With our location here we’re in such a hidden gem in the north east of Ireland,” she said.
“We have the Cooley Mountains just behind and overlook the Carlingford Lough.We’re also one of the only venues as well that our function space is on the
second oor with a private balcony, so the actual wedding couple can go up on the private balcony, take a minute to themselves and take in the view. So, the location is great, especially for the photographers and as a memory for the couple.”
As they approach what is set to be another busy summer at the Four Seasons, the hopes are to continue providing guests with an unforgettable stay at Carlingford’s nest hotel.
“We’re just looking forward to welcoming our guests. Obviously, last
year was a tough year for us with the ood.
“We’re looking forward to the months ahead.We’re renowned for a summer venue and have just launched a new winter wedding package to try and ll the quieter months.
“While it’s beautiful here in the summer, the winter is magical as well so we’re just trying to promote our venue for the months of January, February and March as well,” the hotel’s Head of Sales and Marketing concluded.
THE ROSE HOTEL –‘KERRY HOSPITALITY AT ITS BEST’
The Rose Hotel in Tralee, Co. Kerry celebrated another success at the recent Gold Medal Awards when it was named as Ireland’s Favourite Place to Stay in Munster.
The Gold Medal Awards, which are widely regarded as the pinnacle of excellence in Irish hospitality, honour the very best in the industry and The Rose Hotel is right up there with the best of them. It is the latest in a long list of prestigious accolades the 4-star spa hotel has received in recent times, sitting proudly alongside the 2024 TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award, which ranked The Rose Hotel 19th in Ireland, 2025 CIE Tours Awards of Excellence Merit Award, 2024 Irish Golf Tour Operators (IGTO) Service Excellence Award for Peter Murphy
from Dott’s Bar, and 2024 Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) Kerry Branch Employee of theYear for receptionist Maud Dowd.
All of these awards recognise The Rose Hotel’s unwavering commitment to offering an unrivalled guest experience.
“We are extremely proud of our achievements which are down to our team’s outstanding service, exceptional performance and dedication to hospitality,” General Manager Mark Sullivan enthuses.
“We’d be nothing without them. Our tag line is ‘Kerry hospitality at its best’ which we strive to deliver every day. We know how important it is to create
lasting memories, and we’re here to ensure that every moment of our guest’s stay is special.”
Boasting 161 guest rooms,The Rose Hotel is ideally located close to Tralee town centre with the backdrop of the Slieve Mish Mountains. It is the perfect base from which to explore Tralee and Kerry’s Wild Atlantic Way.Within walking distance of the hotel, you can visit Siamsa Tíre, Kerry County Museum & Medieval Experience,Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre & Nature Reserve or enjoy family time at The Aquadome – Ireland’s largest indoor water world.
Within easy access of the hotel, you
can also discover the Dingle Peninsula, the Ring of Kerry or play golf at the world-acclaimed Tralee Golf Club.
Situated on the rugged Atlantic coast of Ireland’s south-west, it is a unique combination of traditional seaside golf links and the world-famous scenery of the Kingdom.The Rose Hotel team ensures their guests have all the information they need to discover the Wild Atlantic Way, local hidden gems and much more besides.
The Rose Hotel is a beautiful story which stems from owners Dick and Eibhlin Henggeler’s love for their daughter and Ireland.And how a tragic loss led to an exceptional hotel created
by a labour of love. Originally from nearby Killarney, Eibhlin (nee Moriarty) met Dick in Texas.As their family grew, they found themselves living in a dozen different places in America and Europe. However, Ireland was always home and every summer they returned to Kerry.
Their daughter, Dorothy (Dott), grew to have the same love of Ireland as her mother.The highlight of Dott’s life was becoming the Washington DC Rose and attending The Rose of Tralee Festival in 2011. She then got her dream job with Tourism Ireland in Manhattan. However, her beautiful life was tragically cut short by a brain tumour in 2014.
After her death, Dott was very much
with her parents in spirit. In 2015, Dick and Eibhlin seemed to be guided by Dott when they purchased the Fels Point Hotel.They were living in the US and had no experience in the hospitality industry. But it seemed the new hotel would be an appropriate tribute to Dott.
Dick and Eibhlin wanted to create a beautiful hotel to a very high standard as exempli ed by Dott’s Rose sisterselegance, grace, warmth and friendliness. Their vision was realised,The Rose Hotel was launched in April 2016, after an extensive refurbishment which saw the hotel expanded and its interior transformed.
the hotel but especially in Dott’s Bar. The exquisite decor, great food, along with the warm and friendly service is a favorite of guests.Whether beside the re or at the bar or next to the large windows, the enjoyment is the same. This all has a special signi cance for Dick and Eibhlin because they know that Dott would love this, Dott’s story continues.
Aesthetically pleasing outside as it is inside, the family-run hotel offers 161 beautifully-appointed rooms ranging from Classic, Executive and Deluxe rooms to Triple, Family Rooms, Junior Suites and Master Suite, all created with the comfort of guests in mind. So whether visiting for business or pleasure, as part
of a family group or a single traveller, The Rose Hotel has the perfect room for you.
With high-end nishes and exquisite little touches, the rooms are designed to elicit a peaceful and relaxed stay for guests.All rooms feature the standard conveniences one looks for in a fourstar hotel, including air conditioning, tea / coffee making facilities, electric safes and complimentary WIFI. For added convenience, free car parking is provided on the grounds of the hotel.
The Rose Hotel prides itself on its devotion to fresh, local produce, prepared by chefs who take all culinary endeavours very seriously. So, if you
are looking for an exceptional dining experience, whether that’s celebrating a special occasion, grabbing a casual pint over a delicious light lunch or treating your family to a relaxing meal out,The Rose Hotel has something to suit you perfectly.
The beautiful 180-capacity Park Restaurant serves breakfast each morning and dinner in the evening. For dinner, the hotel’s table d’hôte menu provides a variety of dishes to suit all taste buds, while there is also an appetising selection for younger guests from the Kiddie’s Menu.
Dott’s Bar has a delicious Breakfast and all-day Bar Food menu, ideal for
informal dining in gorgeous surroundings. The hotel’s menus re ect the exciting range of ne local produce which are curated carefully on a daily basis by executive head chef Odran Lucey. Guests are encouraged to experience authentic local avours, coupled with a taste of broader contemporary Irish dining.
Since 2017, the Rose Hotel has been home to the award-winning Serenity Spa which boasts three treatment rooms, all featuring heated massage beds, mood lighting and exquisite décor designed to elicit a luxurious yet calming atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to unwind and surrender while the Spa’s professional therapists turn each treatment into a gloriously relaxing experience.
The hotel’s chosen spa product, Elemis Skincare Therapy, mirrors its devotion to all things chic.As advocates of the Elemis range, its therapists are able to offer the ever-popular and pioneering Biotec Technology Facials. Guests can also enjoy time at The Rose Hotel’s Relaxation Room, steamroom and sauna.
Furthermore, the Kerry hotel can accommodate large delegate conferences of 300 people with ease as well as smaller events like training seminars, product launches and intimate gatherings. The hotel offers a selection of ve state-of-the-art conference and meeting rooms that are furnished to the highest standards and feature advanced facilities conveniently located on the ground
oor.
The Rose Hotel is also the ultimate wedding venue.An experienced team is on hand to make your special day everything you have ever imagined.The elegant Lee Suite makes a wonderful banqueting room. Designed to cater for up to 250 guests, it has an adjacent terrace where the bridal party and guests can enjoy a summer cocktail while admiring the lovely views of the Slieve Mish Mountains before the reception itself.
“The bedrooms consist of a Master Suite, two Junior Suites, ve Delux and 15 Executive Suites as well as 137 Classic Rooms, including 125 which have been completely refurbished in the last three or four years, explains Mark, who has been the General Manager since the hotel opened.
“Conferences, meetings, events and banquets, such as weddings and local functions, are a huge part of our business.All of our meeting rooms feature 4k projectors.We have become one of Ireland’s most sustainable hotels with LED lighting throughout. Since 2021, our team has undertaken vigorous training to implement an effective Environmental Management System to reduce the hotel’s future carbon emissions.
“Water conversation is a vital part of our sustainability efforts.To this end, we have installed a water irrigation system and put restrictors on taps and shower heads. In January, we invested in a new
business management heating system that reduces our electricity usage by 30%.There are also wireless phones in all of the rooms, while we redistribute three tonnes of coffee grounds every year to local gardeners for recycling purposes.
“We’ve also installed two Electric Vehicle charging points in our underground car park.”
The Rose Hotel offers GoldenYears Midweek Break and Greenway (Tralee to Fenit) Getaway packages. It caters strongly for gol ng enthusiasts and the Irish, US and European tour market.The hotel engages with many local sports groups, clubs and events, including Kerry GAA, Kerry LGFA, Kerry FC,Tralee St Patrick’s Day Parade,Tralee Chamber Alliance, Meals on Wheels and Tralee Tidy Towns.
It also offers autism-friendly sensory guestrooms, designed in collaboration with As I Am, and has staff trained in Mental Health First Aid.
“All in all, business is good.We have a great product and are looking to the future with much con dence and optimism,” Mark concludes.
RATHMORE, CORK, P51V2P7
Tel: 086-1565476
Email: info@premierhvac.ie www.premierhvac.ie
THE ASHLING HOTEL - IN THE CITY BY THE PARK
A luxury Dublin city hotel with a great central location
Situated in the heart of Dublin city, the Ashling Hotel is an international award winning four-star hotel with 226 beautifully appointed bedrooms, two restaurants, and meeting and events facilities that host hundreds of delegates every week. Hotel & Tourism touched base with Ronan Walsh, General Manager at ‘The Ashling’, to discuss the current state of business, recent award successes and hopes for this year.
A family owned hotel with origins dating back to 1870, the Ashling Hotel is located adjacent to Heuston Station, on the LUAS tramline and close to the capital city’s top attractions.The Phoenix Park is on its doorstep, hence the tagline “In the city by the park“.
Bought by the Flannery family from Galway in 1996, the hotel has seen
signi cant upgrades in recent years, making it one of Dublin’s principal 4-star properties.This March, after a major revamp, the hotel unveiled its new-look reception, bistro bar, and brasserie restaurant.
Relaunched with a new seasonal
In June 2024, the hotel scored a rst when it collaborated with autism charity As I Am to develop a Sensory Bedroom. The room has proved a success with families and people who want a calming environment that’s adapted to sensory needs.
The Ashling has also invested in major upgrades to its meeting and conference facilities.The hotel’s proximity to Heuston Station makes it a popular corporate venue - its 13 Meetings & Events rooms feature hi-speed WiFi, smart TVs and hybrid conferencing facilities. Delegates also get to enjoy the new food offerings.
menu, the Iveagh Bar & Bistro is a stylish place to enjoy contemporary brunches, lunches and bar food. Meanwhile, diners continue to ock to Chester elds Brasserie for the renowned breakfast buffet and, in the evenings, for the new ne-dining experience.
“A stunning renavation was also completed in 2024 on our restaurant, bar and lobby area by the McKeon Group.
“The Ashling is one of the few independent hotels left in Dublin city centre, which gives us more creative freedom when it comes to enhancing the guest experience.We’ve taken advantage of that to the full with the upgrade of our ground oor.Today, when a guest steps into our lobby, or a diner sits in one of our restaurants, they get a much more modern welcome than before.
“Which is great. But it’s the smiling face that greets them that still makes the difference.
“Our teams are incredibly important to us. For us to succeed, we need our people to consistently deliver exemplary service - every member of staff has to bring their best self to work every day.
Through our hiring process and training, we’re fortunate that we’ve got the right people in place, considering we employ upwards of 200 employees in full-time, part-time and temp roles.”
The professionalism of the Ashling’s staff is one of the keys to the customer loyalty they enjoy, and a major reason for their recognition by the judging panels of national awards.
Most recently, the Ashling added three more trophies to their collection, with wins at the Irish Hotel Awards for Ciara Barry,‘National Marketing Manager of theYear’, Shannon Marry ‘National Guest Relations Manager of theYear’
and Deanna Frak ‘National Human Resources Manager’.
Speaking on the award successes, Ronan said,“each award is a fantastic honour, a tribute to the individual winners for their efforts, and for the hotel as a collective.
“These three women have led by example, shown commitment to both the business and their colleagues, and inspired us all with their professionalism.The hotel’s team really are a pleasure to work alongside, and the awards re ect that.Appointing a Director of Sales & Marketing, in 2021, has been crucial to telling our story,
building trust and encouraging guests to keep returning.”
Looking at the months ahead from an industry point of view,Walsh feels that it is paramount that theVAT rate for the Irish hospitality sector is addressed. With tariffs dominating the news cycles, hotels need to redouble efforts to manage costs effectively and ensure competitiveness and pro tability.
“From an industry point of view, I think it’s crucial that the government follow through on their election promises to address the inequitableVAT rate of 13.5%.
“Otherwise, we are competing with European destinations whoseVAT rate is substantially lower than Ireland’s at a
time when our labour costs are among the highest in Europe.”
“The cap in Dublin Airport is also critical to the success of our industry, in that it dictates how many people can visit the country.The reality is that most incoming tour operators and independent tourists want to land in Dublin rather than our regional airports. So, it’s critical that we allow them to do that.
“The CAP was introduced as part of a planning approval in 2007, but the world has changed since then.”
“Until recently, I was quietly con dent that business in 2025 could match and, possibly even build on, 2024.The challenges, however, are changing every time you switch on the news. Right now, the geopolitical situation has many moving parts, most of them outside our control.
“It’s time for cool and calm heads once more as we all navigate our way through this latest hurdle.The hotel sector has shown its resilience already this decade and I’m sure we will do so again.”
Wishes and
tinued Success to The Ashling Hotel
TRUE IRISH HOSPITALITY AS ITS VERY BEST
Situated on the outskirts of the town of Kenmare, Co Kerry, the Kenmare Bay Hotel, Luxury Lodges Resort is your home away from home with 126 beautifully designed bedrooms and 28 self-catering holiday homes. Hotel and Tourism Ireland touched base with General Manager Andrew Rees to hear all about this perfectly situated, multi award-winning hotel which has plans for further renovations next year.
With stunning picturesque views, the Kenmare Bay Hotel, Luxury Lodges Resort is an exceptional property which has an excellent reputation when it comes to its service.
First built in 1974, the hotel has 126 bedrooms, along with 28 self-catering holiday homes and operates with a team of 100 staff.
It’s an award-winning wedding reception venue and its facilities include a superb leisure centre which is has an 18.5 metre swimming pool, children’s pool, jacuzzi, steam room & sauna and a fully equipped gym & weights room.
When it comes to dining options,‘The Bay Bistro’ has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent times and, as a result, now boasts cosy corners and intimate nooks, inviting guests to indulge in a culinary journey.
General Manager at the Kenmare Bay Hotel,Andrew Rees describes the entire property as “a magical place”, and the origins of its transformation can be traced back to just over two decades ago when Riobard Lyne rst acquired the hotel based along the Sneem Road.
“Riobard Lyne bought the property in 2004 and he then did a major renovation project. So, he did a leisure centre, which is an 18.5 metre pool, steam room, jacuzzi, sauna, full gym with treatment facilities,” Andrew outlined.
“He then did a remodel of the central part of the hotel, which was a new banquet suite for 350 guests, a new restaurant, a new reception and 44 new bedrooms, including two suites.
“So, the number of rooms in the hotel moved up to 130 bedrooms by 2006. He then put in 30 self-catering holiday homes, so 16 of those are a four-star nish three-bedroom holiday homes.
“Then he added on another 14 vestar nish luxury lodges that are on the top half of the property.”
cycling, car tours, walking groups and so on – gol ng is very popular in the area as well,” said the hotel’s GM.
“We’re the largest hotel in Kenmare, having the equivalent of the 130 rooms plus the 30 self-catering, you could almost say we’re a 200 roomed property. We run a crew of 100, so we’re the largest employer in the area and, in our busy time, we would have anything up to 400 guests on the property.
Mr Lyne, who has strong roots in Kilgarvan, Co Kerry, isn’t resting on past laurels either, as he envisions a greener future for the hotel, aligning with the global shift toward sustainability.
Since his takeover, the market segment at the Kenmare Bay Hotel has been made up of both national and international tours, a considerable wedding market which is within a 100km radius of Kenmare, predominately in Cork, and, of course, leisure.
“We’re a very popular destination for
“So, that is a huge economic bene t to Kenmare Town because about 50% of our guests each night would be entertaining and shopping in Kenmare. Also, from a community perspective, we’re very involved.
“There are numerous events each year that we’re involved with and we’re very involved with the GAA team here in Kenmare and actually sponsor the senior team with complimentary membership to our leisure centre for them to keep t and healthy.
in Kilgarvan with their home kit, and have an involvement with Kenmare FC. Probably our biggest contribution to our community is our swim program in our Leisure Centre.
“We would have one to one swimming instruction and what we call our swim academy, which is taking people from Level 1 to Level 8 with the Irish Swim Association.Then we also have the Kenmare Bay Swim Club, which has won multiple regional and national medals across a wide range of age groups.”
A Dublin native himself,Andrew rst joined the team in Kenmare back in 2008 after having built up more than a quarter century’s experience in the hospitality industry.
Between the years of 1980 and 2004, he worked in 15 hotels in six different countries before returning back to Ireland in ‘04 and, four years later, he’d join the team at the Kenmare Bay Hotel.
As it stands,Andrew has worked for 35 years in total as a Hotel General Manager and, over the course of that period, is also experienced in project management when it comes to general builds and renovations.
Today, he heads up a multiple awardwinning team in Kenmare, with some of the most recent success for the hotel having come at the prestigious Irish Hotel Awards this past October.
The Kenmare Bay Hotel was victorious in the ‘Overall Irish SelfCatering Property of theYear’ category,
while other gongs in 2024 included ‘WeddingVenue of theYear’ by Brides of Munster and also ‘WeddingVenue of the Year’ 2024 with WeddingDates.ie.
WEDDINGS
Weddings are the heartbeat of this hotel and, being recognised as one of Kerry’s top wedding venues, it’s home to a team, a service and a fabulous setting that will make your big day a dream come true.
Being close to the West Cork border and situated on the Beara Peninsula, the Kenmare Bay Hotel is the ideal
destination in the south west of Ireland for a couple’s big day.
As for what’s ahead for the Kenmare Bay Hotel,Andrew is happy to report that the wheels are in motion for further renovation that will eventually bring the hotel up to a four-star status.
“Once we got over Covid, we started a new phase of renovation. So, we’re currently a three-star hotel and we’re on a four-star journey,” he said.
“The four-star journey is broken into two parts. Part A is that from 2023 to 2024, we renovated 33 of our bedrooms to four-star and renovated
•
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our restaurant to ‘The Bay Bistro’ and that opened in April of last year. It’s really a phenomenal bistro.
“So, that was the winter project last year and this winter now we’ve done a renovation to our whole entrance. In other words, to our foyer and we’ve also created a guest wedding garden on the property.
“We’re renovating our two suites to a four-star standard and they will be completed soon.Then we’re doing a renovation in our Courtyard bar to bring it to four stars.
“The last phase will be a 50-room
renovation to four stars, which will happen this winter coming into next summer (2026).”
Indeed, the next 12 months or so are set to see further transformation at the Kenmare Bay Hotel in its journey towards becoming a four-star property.
It’s also set to continue in its commitment towards “going greener”, with the objective being to achieve a zero-carbon footprint by the end of next year.
“In the road to green, in 2024 we put in 44 EV charging units on the property. That makes the hotel with the greatest
number of EV charging units in Ireland and we actually offer complimentary charging overnight,” said Andrew.
“So, it’s sort of like ‘Refresh yourself and recharge your car’.The 30 selfcatering units are now all solar electricity and they’re also air to water. So, that’s a very forward commitment to get us greener.
“Within the hotel, we’ve changed all of our lighting infrastructure to LED ef cient lighting systems and then the next part of the project is we’re going to be doing a bio-mass unit for the Leisure Centre.
“Then we’re going solar on the main hotel with a solar carpark to reduce our use of electricity off the grid.We’re also going to be putting in air to water in the main complex of the hotel so we’re not reliant on heating oil. Once that process is complete, we’ll then be as close to a zero-carbon footprint as you can get and, also, by late 2026 we’ll be a plastic free hotel as well.”
So, all of that considered, the burning question is what has been the secret behind the Kenmare Bay Hotel’s success to date?
With origins dating back more than ve decades ago, how has it continued to deliver on its commitment to excellence and, most important of all, kept its guests walking through the doors?
For Andrew, he cites a combination of different factors as being behind this hotel’s continued success.
“I think I’ll step back and say that, rstly, they choose Kenmare as a destination itself because it’s historically well-known as being very friendly and welcoming,” he pointed out.
“It’s also known for its ne pubs and restaurants and real Irish culture, arts and crafts, so Kenmare is the destination and it has so many other businesses as well.The town itself has a walking club, a cycling club, so it’s a destination within itself.
“After that, why do they choose the Kenmare Bay Hotel? Obviously, from a tour point of view, because it’s on the Ring of Kerry and it’s famous in itself.
For weddings, because the destination is within 40-60km of Cork and it’s just the whole picturesqueness of Kenmare for a wedding to be held.
“From an Irish leisure point of view, it’s to do with all of what guests can do. Particularly to the hotel, we’re an 800-metre walk into town on a private walkway and our friendliness and our service is exceptional. I mean one can refer to Booking.com as a guideline, we score over 9.3 for our staff service and friendliness. It’s a real sort of Irishness in friendliness.
“Our food is exceptional. Bobby O’Donohoe our Executive Chef is amongst the top chefs in Ireland.”
The GM concluded:“My core team has been with me over 10 years and that has a level of passion, loyalty and
commitment. It’s not just a career, it’s a life balance. So, from a General Manager’s point of view, it’s one of my beliefs that anybody who is working in my team there’s a life balance.
“Back in the day, if you were to get anywhere in a hotel, you’d work 60-70 hours a week and I have a mantra that I’d rather have 100% at eight hours than 70% at 10 hours. So, there’s a very good life balance within my team which projects across to the customer’s experience.”
That’s fantastic to hear.
A HERITAGE HAVEN IN IRELAND’S HEARTLANDS
Situated in the Georgian heritage town of Birr, Co Offaly, the County Arms is right up there with the best hotels in the Midlands for relaxing getaways, weddings, special occasions, celebrations and meetings & conferences. Hotel & Tourism Ireland caught up with General Manager Barry Kennedy to hear all about this four-star hotel which offers its guests elegant accommodation with warm and friendly service.
These are busy times at the County Arms and the plan for its General Manager Barry Kennedy and indeed the entire team based at Railway Road, See n, Birr, Co Offaly is to keep things that way for the foreseeable future.
With the building’s origins dating all the way back to the 1800s, the ‘County Arms’ has been operating as a hotel since the 1960s, with its current owners, Eoin and
Carol Garry, having taken over in 2019.
After the Covid-19 restrictions were lifted once and for all, this hotel reopened with a new management and its traditions for elegant accommodation and excellent service, of course, remained the same.
The County Arms’ location sees its set on a nine-acre estate which is ideally situated for guests to enjoy all that the Midlands has to offer.
When it comes to the hotel’s facilities,
‘The Springs Leisure Club & Wellness Suites’ offers a pool, steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi and gym, with a host of wellness experiences to rejuvenate body and mind.
Dining options include the lively ‘Bar 62’ and the stunning Hackett’s Eatery, where local, seasonal produce is served up.The Shaker Room Cocktail Bar gives guests the perfect spot for socialising or they can have Afternoon Tea in the stunning Georgian Drawing Room and
also enjoy a stroll through the beautiful 18th Century Walled Garden.
Right now, the County Arms employs just over 150 staff, a gure which has increased from 62 employees in August 2021, and the team takes tremendous pride in the fact that around 95% of the staff are inside the local community and live within 15 minutes of the hotel itself.
Every single member of the team is key at the County Arms according to GM Barry Kennedy, whom took time from a busy schedule to ll Hotel & Tourism in on the details.
“The County Arms has always enjoyed a strong reputation as a leading venue for weddings, good hospitality which we are now working hard at maintaining and hopefully enhancing,” he said.
“The current owners here are Eoin and Carol Garry. Eoin grew up in Birr and is still heavily invested in Birr and is a very proud Birr man. I joined the team in August 2021 as GM, having worked here in my rst ever job in hotels from 2001 to 2008.
“I also grew up in Birr and it’s such a pleasure for me now to lead the team here in my hometown hotel.”
“Over the past three-and-a-half years, we have grown the business levels at a very strong rate and, alongside this, have more than doubled the amount of local people employed, as well as carrying out an extensive refurbishment program to almost all areas of the property.”
When it comes to weddings at the County Arms Birr, the hotel offers different packages depending on the needs of the couple celebrating their big day.
The approach that the County Arms likes to take is meeting each couple and discussing what they would like their wedding to be and, after that, the hotel’s Wedding Co-Ordinator Dee Smyth and members of her team will design a bespoke package for them.
It means that no two wedding packages are the same at the County Arms, as the hotel looks to personalise each wedding to match the couple’s needs. It does, however, aim to make it an easy process for the bride and groom, so therefore
most packages include all that they could require from the venue.
Towards the end of last year, the County Arms’ fantastic work in this regard was recognised on a national scale when it scooped not one, but three prestigious wedding awards.
First, it was named Offaly’s Best WeddingVenue for 2024 by WeddingDates.ie before being awarded ‘Leinster’s Best WeddingVenue’ at the HiStyle Best in Hospitality Awards at a Gala Awards Dinner in Cork on November 30th.Then Dee Smyth was awarded the Wedding Coordinator of theYear (Leinster) by Weddings Online.
The awards win helped to cap off an excellent year for the team at County Arms and, looking back on the success, Barry Kennedy said it re ected the
team’s continuous effort towards excellence.
“Firstly, the awards represent really deserved recognition for all of the hard work by the entire County Arms team that has gone into growing and delivering weddings over the past three years,” the GM outlined.
“It also represents a level of consistency with our wedding delivery that we really pride ourselves on, we always say that we are only as good as our last wedding and these awards represent that we must be doing something right!”
Indeed, the awards have been rolling in recent times for the County Arms, with this past November having also saw Barry himself winning ‘Best Hotel Manager’, Dee Smyth scooping ‘Wedding
Coordinator of theYear’ and Gerard O’Riordan landing ‘Chef of theYear’ at the annual Midlands 103 Hospitality Awards.
“Beast Chef at Midlands Hospitality Awards was a big one as Gerry has put so much work into the food offering here over the past three years, and he cares so much about what we do here, so we we’re all delighted for him,” said Barry.
“What actually pleases me most is the consistency in nominations we receive. It’s obviously lovely for the team when we win something, but seeing the County Arms shortlisted for so many awards over the past three years to me represents a real level of excellent consistency which means our team are performing well week after week, which is what it’s all about really.”
Since coming onboard as GM of the County Arms in 2021, Barry says that the support which the team has received from the owners has been excellent and points out that their ambition to also drive the hotel on has been “enormously positive”.
It’s a partnership which has helped the hotel’s strong growth trajectory over the last three to four years and the hopes now are for further expansion and growth next year.
The plans for 2026 include a full refurbishment of the County Arms’ Moorpark Ballroom during the rst quarter of the year, along with an extension that is set to include eight additional suites, as well as a larger staff area with a bigger canteen and changing rooms.
Next year is also set to see the hotel adding extra carparking space for its guests.
So, all of that considered, the burning question is what has been the secret behind the success of the County Arms to date?
How has this hotel, which came under new ownership a little over a half decade
ago, continued to carry on in a busy manner and indeed further grow its reputation for excellence in hospitality?
“I suppose we are one of what is now a rare thing; a family owned, country town hotel that is thankfully thriving and growing,” Barry stated.“But I will always say that what makes County Arms special is our people and how much they care about what they do.”
The GM added:“It comes from the team.We all care about what we do and, as I mentioned, we all live locally and take great pride in how people view our hotel.”
“We also regularly speak about how lucky we are to be trusted with looking after people’s special occasions such as weddings, funerals, con rmation, communion etc. But really, it is the team
who drive their own high standards here.”
Always viewed as a strong hotel for good food and traditional hospitality, the County Arms Hotel is the perfect stay with some of Offaly’s most luxurious rooms and suites and, of course, that core value of excellent hospitality which its team aims to achieve every single day at the hotel.
THE GLASSHOUSE WINS AGAIN!
The Glasshouse Hotel is one of Ireland’s nest 4-star hotels and has the awards to prove it.
Through cutting-edge design and architecture,The Glasshouse is setting new standards in contemporary, stylish accommodation.The newly-refurbished 4-star hotel in the centre of Sligo overlooks the Garavogue River and boasts 116 spacious bedrooms. Upgrade your experience to a superior room and enjoy stunning river views, some feature a balcony. The Junior Suites have oor to ceiling windows at the front of the hotel, while deluxe suites have their own terrace with panoramic views of Sligo.
Independently owned,The Glasshouse has won many prestigious accolades down through the years, in the past month there was success in winning three awards at theYESChef Awards Night.The hotel was delighted to bring home; Front House Manager in Connacht, Hotel Restaurant of theYear in Connacht and also Pastry Chef of the year. In the later part of 2024 there was success at the Irish Hotel Awards and the 2025 Irish Accommodation Services Institute (IASI) Awards
It was one of the big winners at the Irish Hotel Awards, which celebrate the best and brightest in the industry, scooping three awards for Housekeeper of the Year (Overall) –Rose Cawley, Rising Star of the Year (Highly Commended) – Kisha McKenna and Social Media Award (Highly Commended).
More recently,The Glasshouse won Gold at the Irish Accommodation Services Institute (IASI) Awards in Killarney, speci cally for its accommodation team’s excellence in bedrooms, front of house and general public areas.The Gold award, which The Glasshouse also won in 2023 and ‘24, is a testament to the hard work and dedication of Accommodation
Manager Rose Cawley,Accommodation Assistant Manager Martina Haran and the entire housekeeping team at The Glasshouse.
“We’re absolutely delighted with our recent award successes which recognise the hard work, dedication and passion of our entire team. Our aim at all times is to provide an unrivalled guest experience,” The Glasshouse General Manager Carmel Murphy enthuses.
“The big one at the Irish Hotel Awards was Housekeeper of theYear for Rose Cawley. Rose has been a breath of fresh air since she joined us in 2012. She’s well-known in local sporting circles through her involvement with Coolera-Strandhill GAA club and as a LGFA referee.
“I can’t speak highly enough of Rose, her assistant Martina Haran, their supervisors and the whole accommodation team.To also win Gold at the IASI Awards for the third year-in-a-row underscores the team’s commitment to achieving the highest standards.”
Carmel adds:“We were also thrilled for Kisha McKenna on her Rising Star of theYear (Highly Commended) Award. Kisha is another local lady who has worked in our food and beverage department since 2019. Her warm and bubbly personality is infectious.And not forgetting our Sales ManagerVanessa O’Donovan and her role in us being Highly Commended in the Social Media Award category.
“We have many great people besides those I’ve mentioned in our 130-strong team who make The Glasshouse one of the best hotels around. Our chefs, for example, have had success at national and international Culinary Competitions, winning 11 medals at Chef Ireland at the most recent Catex event in February this year. We consider ourselves very lucky to have such an amazing team who go to great lengths to ensure our guests have a relaxing and unforgettable stay.”
Located on the site of the old Silver Swan Hotel,The Glasshouse is a striking building with its towering presence over the Garavogue River and offers guests a haven of contemporary interiors, the distinct architecture reminiscent of a ship in dock sets a striking silhouette against the Sligo skyline.
O’Connell Street, the main street in Sligo, and the WBYeats Memorial Building, are both on the doorstep of the hotel. Sligo Train Station and The Hawks Well Theatre are also in very
close proximity.
“Our location in the centre of Sligo and our friendly staff are two of our main selling points,” Carmel explains.
“The hotel has a diverse customerbase with visitors travelling from Northern Ireland, the UK, mainland Europe and the USA to mention just a few. Midweek, we have a strong domestic corporate market with our weekend business more leisure-orientated.
“There is so much to choose from when visiting Sligo from our world – renowned links golf coursesEnniscrone, Rosses Point and Strandhill
- to our location on the Surf Coast of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.There is a lot to see and do in Sligo, which is something of a hidden gem.”
As Sligo’s culinary beacon,The Glasshouse is committed to delivering an exceptional dining journey, Under the careful stewardship of chef Alan Fitzmaurice,The Kitchen Restaurant has introduced a unique dining experience to Sligo.Alan combines ethically-sourced local ingredients and combines them in traditional recipes while adding a little contemporary twist, like the hotel itself, the food offering is quirky.
Breakfast at The Kitchen Restaurant offers an extensive buffet spread, including a variety of Danish pastries, fruits and the classic Full Irish buffet breakfast.
The ground oor Café Bar is a lively spot, with food served from 12 noon daily.There is a boardwalk area overlooking the river for al fresco dining.
The Café Bar is perfect for lunch, as an alternative to The Kitchen Restaurant for dinner or for a casual drink.Watch the world go by on the bridge outside and get to know downtown Sligo from within.
Located on the rst oor,TheView Bar is the perfect spot for enjoying a sophisticated cocktail or a glass of ne wine.With an in-house DJ set every weekend,TheView Bar promises lively evenings in a stylish setting.This is also the ideal venue for birthday parties, family gatherings and get-togethers.
The Glasshouse also caters for conferences and meetings. Conveniently located on the ground oor with easy access for delegates,The Swan Suite offers a exible space to suit your needs. It ensures seamless integration of interactive presentations and
collaborative sessions, enhancing the overall experience for your attendees.
A planned extension will increase the number of bedrooms by 53 to 169. Since 2022, all 116 existing bedrooms have been refurbished to a high standard, as have TheView Bar and The Café Bar.
“The next phase involves renovating The Kitchen Restaurant, lobby and function room.After that, work will commence on the extension on a site adjacent to the hotel.
“The extension will consist of 53 bedrooms, for which planning permission has already been secured. All going well, it will be ready for use in 2027,” Carmel concludes.
THE GLASSHOUSE HOTEL
SwanPoint,AbbeyquarterNorth, Sligo,F91NCA4.
Telephone:+353(0)719184300
Email:info@theglasshouse.ie
Web:www.theglasshouse.ie
Best Wishes and C tinued Success to The Glassh se Hotel, Sligo
HERBERT PARK HOTEL & RESIDENCE SHINES AT IRISH HOTEL AWARDS
The Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence was one of the big winners at the 2024 Irish Hotel Awards which took place in The Johnstown Estate, En eld on October 22 last.
The hard work paid off for the hotel’s team whose dedication and commitment to delivering excellence was recognised with no fewer than ve awards, namely ‘General Manager of theYear – Leinster’ for Egle Tamosauskaite (pictured, right), ‘Duty Manager of theYear – Leinster’ for Josan Trujillo,‘Kitchen Porter of the Year – Leinster’ for Frankie Jurecko, ‘City Hotel of theYear – Leinster’ and ‘Self-Catering Property of theYear –Leinster’. In addition, Nessa O’Connor was shortlisted for ‘HR Manager of the Year’.
The celebrations went on long into the night and rightly so after another hugely successful year for one of Dublin’s most iconic hotels. Set in a peaceful park location in Ballsbridge, Dublin 4,The Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence’s calm and spacious environments provide the backdrop for high-quality hospitality with a welcoming, personal touch.
“We were thrilled to be honoured with multiple awards,” enthuses Egle
Tamosauskaite, who has been General Manager for the past four years.
“We have a team of shining diamonds in the hotel who I have the pleasure of working with on a daily basis. Everyone is part of the team.When you take out the 14 people who were either returning to their homeland or changing careers, we had zero staff turnover in 2024 which is unbelievable in this industry and speaks volumes for the way
we treat people. It’s a happy place where everyone is working and progressing.
“Our policy is to promote from within.We have people who started as cleaners and porters who are now managers.The two criteria I look for when hiring staff is that they must have passion and a good heart.We can teach the other things, but an employee is nothing without passion and a good heart.”
Egle adds:“Everything we do here is from the heart.We treat our staff well and reward them accordingly. It comes from the strong family values of the owners, the Kennedy and McSharry families.The team had a two-day bonding session in the Wicklow Mountains last year and we’re already looking forward to the next one.
“It’s just a great place to work and to progress in your career.”
Egle is a shining example of what can be achieved with determination, hard work and an unwavering commitment to excellence.Arriving in Ireland from Lithuania, her exceptional journey in the hospitality sector began in 2004 when she joined The Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence as a Receptionist. From the outset, her dedication to providing outstanding guest service became a hallmark of her career, and it laid the
foundation for a remarkable ascent through the ranks.
She progressed from Receptionist to Front Of ce Manager, and later, to Assistant General Manager, before assuming the role of General Manager, where she continues to inspire her team and lead with unparalleled vision and passion.
Egle’s journey is a testament to the power of personal growth and leadership development. Her handson experience in every aspect of hotel operations – from front desk to management – has shaped her leadership style. She rmly believes in creating an environment where every team member feels heard, valued and empowered to reach their full potential.A key pillar of her leadership is promoting from within, ensuring that employees are not only given the opportunity to grow, but are actively supported in their personal and professional development.
Under Egle’s stewardship, the hotel has ourished, achieving extraordinary success and recognition. Her commitment to the team is evident in initiatives such as leadership coaching programs, including a special management night with a mentor own in from Lithuania.This dedication to
nurturing talent has fostered a culture of collaboration, trust and excellence that radiates throughout the hotel.
Egle’s unique approach to hiring –focusing on heart and potential rather than just a CV – has built a team that embodies warmth, passion and dedication.This approach has not only ensured success, but has also created a welcoming and supportive environment that staff are eager to be part of.
Under her guidance, the hotel was also ranked 11th in the 2024 Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best by Tripadvisor and achieved its lowest turnover rate in 27 years – an undeniable testament to her ability to cultivate a happy, motivated and engaged team. She understands the importance of work-life balance and regularly organises activities such as comedy shows, spa days, cookery classes, and team retreats, all designed to build connections, foster relaxation and celebrate learning.
Egle’s ability to connect with her team on a personal level is unmatched. Having worked every role in the hotel, she possesses a deep understanding of each employee’s perspective, making her leadership not only effective but empathetic. Whether through open conversations at her desk, staff committee meetings, or wellness initiatives – like the hotel’s transformative wellness day – Egle consistently demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of her team.
Through her exceptional leadership, the award-winning GM has helped guide the hotel through signi cant milestones, including major renovations, and has ensured that the hotel continually evolves to meet the expectations of a discerning clientele. Her blend of professionalism, compassion and a sense of fun has created an environment where employees thrive, guests are delighted, and the hotel’s success continues to grow.
Overlooking the 48-acre Herbert Park in Ballsbridge,The Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence is a 4-star 185-bedroom hotel also consisting of 43 self-catering apartments, and employing 130 people. Opened in 1996, it is located a mere 328-feet from the RDS and a ve-minute walk from the Aviva Stadium. The Park Residence was developed over two phases in 2019 and ’20, while there are plans to extend it further with the addition of an extra oor.
The stylish, modern hotel offers
spacious and elegant bedrooms as well as luxury studio apartments.The airconditioned rooms at The Herbert Park Hotel are decorated in light colours and feature large windows.They include a TV, safe and private bathrooms with hairdryers.There is a 24-hour room service menu.The bright and airy Terrace Lounge, located in the lobby, offers all-day dining as well as light snacks.The sunny patio overlooking Herbert Park is perfect for outdoor dining.
The Aviva Stadium is less than a 10-minute walk away, and next to it is the Lansdowne Road DART station, providing easy access to all of Dublin’s attractions.The 3Arena and St Stephen’s
Green are both 1.5 miles away, and the hotel is on the main bus route into the city centre. Housekeeping service for hotel bedrooms is provided daily, and for apartments, it is offered weekly.
Strategically located near Dublin’s business hubs,The Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence offers access to corporate of ces, convention centres and cultural landmarks.The elegant rooms feature high-speed Wi-Fi, plush furnishings and Nespresso coffee machines for a productive stay. Companies can host meetings or events in modern Conference & Banqueting spaces, and enjoy exceptional dining at the Terrace Lounge or Pavilion Restaurant. Guests can unwind in the
tness centre or take a stroll through Herbert Park.With its unmatched blend of exceptional service, prime location, and dedicated team,The Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence continues to set the standard in Dublin’s hospitality industry.
GOLD AND SILVER FOR PEMBROKE KILKENNY
There was double delight for Pembroke Kilkenny at the recent Gold Medal Awards when it was awarded Gold for Ireland’s Boutique Hotel of the Year and Silver for Ireland’s Breakfast Experience.
The recognition highlights the hotel’s commitment to excellence and offering an unrivalled guest experience. The Gold Medal Awards are widely regarded as the pinnacle of excellence in Irish hospitality, honouring the very best in the industry. No stranger to winning prestigious accolades, Pembroke Kilkenny is a 4-star boutique hotel located right in the heart of a city rich in medieval heritage and vibrant arts culture.The Pembroke re ects that culture, with commissioned
art works and support of the arts and festivals.
“Winning Gold for Best Boutique Hotel in Ireland and Silver for Best Hotel Breakfast means a lot to our team.These awards are industry-recognised, judged by peers, and not something you can buy your way into, so to be acknowledged at that level is a real honour,” Pembroke Kilkenny General Manager Paul Broderick enthuses.
“The Boutique Hotel award re ects the full experience we offer from the welcome at reception to the comfort
of the rooms, quality of the food, and the genuine care from our team. It’s validation that we’re doing things right.
“The Breakfast award is especially meaningful because it speaks for consistency. Breakfast is the rst impression of the day, it sets the tone. For our kitchen and front-of-house teams to be recognised for that is a big boost.With Kilkenny having some amazing places to eat, we decided about 10 years ago to focus on our breakfast offering which allows our guests to sample delicious high-quality, farm-to-
fork local produce before they explore the city.
“Ultimately, it’s not about the trophies. It’s about pride.The team works hard, and these awards give them that moment to stop, smile and see their work appreciated on a national level.”
The Gold Medal Awards are the latest in a long list of accolades Pembroke Kilkenny has won over the years. Previous successes include: BestValue Hotel – Irish Hospitality Awards 2012; Customer Service Excellence – Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce 2012; Student of theYear MDP – CK Management Development Program 2012; Excellence in Hospitality – Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce 2013; Employee of the Year – Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce 2014; Green Energy Award – SEAI Better Energy Communities 2014; Business Development Award – Kilkenny Business Network 2014.
Employee of theYear & Investment in Skills – Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce 2015; European Business Excellence Star Award – European Foundation for Quality Accreditation 4 Management (EFQM) 2015; Certi cate of Excellence / Hall of Fame – Tripadvisor 2019; 5* Client Experience Award – Phorest 2019-2024;Travel Choice Award –Tripadvisor 2020; Loved by Guests
– Hotels.com 2020;Traveller Review Award – Booking.com 2020; Ireland’s Leading Aesthetic Clinic – RSVP 2021; Accreditation Mint – All Star Business Foundation 2021-2024; Best Hotel Breakfast – Georgina Campbell 2022; Leinster Best Casual Dining & Best Emerging Irish Cuisine – Irish Restaurant Awards 2022.
Best Medispa – RSVP 2022-2023; Great Place to Work 2022-2024; Mint, Investment in Skills – Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce 2023; Carbon Offset Award – Pure Oil 2023; Fab 50 Ireland’s Best Places to Stay – Irish Independent 2024; Gold Medal for Outstanding Employer – Failte Ireland 2023-2024; Certi cate of Excellence –Tripadvisor 2014-2024;Travel Choice Award – Tripadvisor 2024; Best in Hospitality – GPTW 2024; Leinster Best Contemporary Cuisine – Irish Restaurant Awards 2024.
“We pride ourselves on our team’s genuine care for the guest experience,” Paul points out.
“Nothing here is overcomplicated; we focus on doing the basics really well with people who want to be part of the journey to build something special.
“It’s not about grand gestures. It’s the genuine welcome at reception, the coffee that’s always hot, the impeccably clean
room, and the breakfast worth getting up for.Those small things build trust, which keeps people coming back.
“We also take pride in creating an environment where our team can do their best work.When people feel supported and respected, it shows in how they treat guests. There are some notable team success stories to mention.
“Grace Morrissey joined us as a quali ed hairdresser looking for a new direction. She started at reception and worked her way up to Front Of ce Manager, now leading one of the most polished and capable front desk teams you’ll come across.
“Lucie Dowling, now our People & Culture Director, also began her journey in reception.And then there’s Aisling, our Executive Housekeeper. She started in reception, moved into a senior food and beverage role, and has now found real ful lment leading our housekeeping team, bringing precision and care to every corner of the hotel.
“There are more stories like this. We’re proud of how our people grow here.”
Pembroke Kilkenny has developed its own internal framework,The Pembroke Way, which is built around creating a seamless linkage from ‘what we want to become’ to ‘making it happen’.The
ve pillars of The Pembroke Way are People, Sales, Customers, Systems and Sustainability. Systems, for example, create clarity, consistency and con dence so the team can focus on what matters – the guest experience. This also makes the work itself ful lling and rewarding.
“Our focus on values and daily guiding behaviours is at the centre of what makes Pembroke different,” the affable General Manager continues.
“They’re not posters or slogans; they’re lived.They shape how we treat each other, lead, and show up for our guests and team.Without them, it’s just a process, and we become like everyone else! With them, it becomes leadership in action.
“The Pembroke Way isn’t a rulebook. It’s how we operate.To support it, we’ve built a practical leadership playbook and workbook that helps managers focus on what’s important.We are also just about to launch our team playbook, which guides all team members through their contribution to running a great hotel.
“We use the Great Places to Work surveys in detail to improve our employee experience, and we sweat the details on every customer journey to ensure it’s on point! As a result, our team knows what’s expected, they feel
supported and they’re trusted to bring their strengths to the table, all of which gives you happy, loyal customers.
“We don’t chase trends or overcomplicate things.We do the fundamentals well with the right mindset and attention to detail. Our culture is what sets us apart. Having a growth mindset is also core to our culture.”
Approaching 20 years in business, the hotel sits on a landmark site in one of Kilkenny’s most ideal locations. But long before it became home to a 4-star boutique hotel, this was the site of a
Ford garage that made Irish motor racing history.
In the 1930s, motor racing captured Ireland’s imagination. For those without factory-built cars, enthusiasts built their own ‘Specials’. One of the most successful was the Statham-Ford Special, built on the same site by George Statham. Powered by a FordV8 engine, it competed against racing giants like Bugatti and ERA, even placing seventh in the 1935 Limerick Grand Prix.
Today, Pembroke Kilkenny honours that spirit of innovation. Its bar and
restaurant, Stathams, carry the name and legacy of the garage.The restored Statham-Ford Special sits proudly on display at the hotel, a reminder of the creativity and ambition that once roared from this very spot.
Constructed by John Ryan in 2006, Pembroke Hotel has undergone a remarkable transformation since then and has grown into one of Kilkenny’s leading independent hotels, offering stylish rooms, a dynamic events space, a strong business hub, and award-winning food and drink.The hotel employs 80 people, including a leadership team consisting of John Ryan, Paul Broderick and Lucie Dowling.The three directors have worked together for over 15 years, during which they’ve guided the hotel through signi cant challenges, including a recession and a global pandemic, while staying focused on long-term growth.
“Our ambition is to become an iconic hotel where guests love to stay, and our people are proud to work,” Paul says.
The recent addition of 11 luxury suites on a new top oor has boosted the number of bedrooms from 73 to 84.The suites offer unique and amazing views of the city, including Kilkenny Castle and Ireland’s Medieval Mile.
“We’re proud to be in one of Kilkenny’s most ideal locations, right in the middle of everything the city has to offer.
“Our existing bedrooms were already bright, airy and spacious, so the goal with this project was to build on that and take it up a level.
“We felt there was a gap in the market for a truly high-end room product in Kilkenny.There are some great hotels in the city, but we saw an opportunity to create a new oor of luxury suites that bring something different. Each suite offers a uniquely elevated view of Kilkenny, sightlines that haven’t been seen before, including Ireland’s Medieval Mile, Kilkenny Castle, Butler House & Gardens and Kilkenny Design.
“The design is warm and modern, with natural materials and local craftsmanship throughout.We worked with Kilkennybased architects Brian Dunlop and O’Donnell O’Neill Design to re ect a strong sense of place, while keeping the experience effortless for the guest.
“The result is something we’re genuinely proud of: a comfortable, considered space that offers guests something a little special when they stay in Kilkenny.”
Pembroke Kilkenny is a welcoming
hotel and events venue with a comfortable ambience and friendly team that puts your needs rst.With traditional hospitality and a relaxed atmosphere, Stathams Bar & Restaurant is a great place to wine, dine and unwind. It is also a fantastic private events venue in Kilkenny perfect for celebrations with family and friends.
Furthermore, Pembroke Kilkenny is also home to Mint, its very own medispa.Whether you want laser treatments, serious skincare or a touch of pampering with a massage, facial, body treatment, and signature packages, it has just the thing for you.
The hotel also boasts bespoke corporate and conference facilities, featuring state-of-the-art equipment, high speed broadband and exceptional standards of personal service. Bespoke corporate packages and services are available.
DOUBLE DELIGHT FOR CASTLE LESLIE ESTATE
Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough, Co. Monaghan is celebrating a momentous achievement after securing two prestigious awards at this year’s Virgin Media Gold Medal Awards.
Recognised for its exceptional hospitality, historic charm and commitment to excellence, the esteemed estate proudly took home Gold for Ireland’s Favourite Place to Stay and Silver for Ireland’s Castle & Heritage Wedding Excellence.
The Gold Medal Awards, which are widely regarded as the pinnacle of excellence in Irish hospitality, honour the very best in the industry. Winning Ireland’s Favourite Place to Stay in Ulster and to have received the coveted Overall Gold Award for Ireland’s Favourite Place to Stay, as voted for by the public, highlights Castle Leslie Estate’s unwavering dedication to providing an unparalleled guest experience.
The Silver accolade in Ireland’s Castle & Heritage Wedding Excellence reinforces its reputation as one of the country’s most enchanting wedding venues. Known for its stunning 1,000-
acre estate, breathtaking lakeside views and exceptional service, Castle Leslie Estate continues to be a dream destination for couples seeking a truly magical setting for their special day.
“We are absolutely delighted to have received these prestigious awards,” says Castle Leslie Estate CEO Brian Baldwin.
“These accolades are a testament to the hard work, passion and dedication of our entire team.We strive to create unforgettable experiences for our guests, while also being responsible custodians of our beautiful estate.”
One of the last great Irish Castle estates in the hands of its founding family, Castle Leslie Estate continues to uphold its legacy of excellence and
charm.These latest awards further cement its place as one of Ireland’s most beloved and esteemed hospitality destinations.
Steeped in history, Castle Leslie Estate will be operating as a hospitality business for 35 years in 2027.What started out as Tea Rooms has developed into one of Ireland’s leading luxury hotel estates. This would not have been possible without the hard work, commitment and devotion of the team which has grown to 260.
“There are still members of the team working with us that were here at the very beginning,” Castle Leslie Estate General Manager Kevin Kenny explains.
“There is no one person that makes Castle Leslie Estate what it is. It is a mix of all the team, past and present, from our Custodian Sammy Leslie and our CEO Brian Baldwin, who give us the support and exibility to do our jobs, to our grassroots team and senior management team who have been here between three and 33 years.”
Kevin, who has been in his role since 2009, adds:“We pride ourselves on our team’s dedication to excellence and their incredible hard work in establishing Castle Leslie Estate as a premier destination, celebrated for its unique charm and exceptional service.
Castle Leslie Estate is not just another business.We are very much ingrained in the community, having formed local partnerships that have evolved over the years.We are passionate about our people, our guests, our environment and the protection of it.”
The Gold Medal Awards are just the latest in a long list of accolades bestowed upon the beautiful border
estate. In February, Castle Leslie Estate was named as one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces 2025 by Great Place to Work™ and also Best Workplaces™ for Health & Wellbeing 2025, recognising its outstanding commitment to employee wellbeing, workplace culture and professional development. Castle Leslie Estate was placed 27th in Ireland’s Best Medium Workplaces 2025 across all industries.
Furthermore, Castle Leslie Estate was crowned both the Culinary Haven of theYear and Supreme Winner at the Good Food Ireland Awards recognised for providing an outstanding experience. As a premier food and drink destination,
it showcases culinary excellence by highlighting the nest local Irish produce.
Other recent awards include: Failte Ireland Gold ‘Outstanding Employer’ accreditation; overall winner of the National Tourism / Hospitality award at Ireland’s Climate Change Leadership Awards; winner of Best Equestrian Centre at the Northern Ireland Equine Awards; Ulster Luxury Hotel Restaurant of theYear for Snaf es Restaurant at theYes Chef Awards; and Gold for Excellence in Accommodation Standards and Overall Sustainability at the Irish Accommodation Services Institute Awards.
Consistency is key to achieving success at Castle Leslie Estate which focuses on the following:
Employee Wellbeing & Work-Life Balance – Prioritising initiatives that support mental health, wellness and exible work arrangements.
Career Growth & Development – Providing training, mentorship and progression opportunities for all team members.
Diversity & Inclusion – Fostering a culture of respect, equality and belonging.
Exceptional Team Spirit – Creating a positive and collaborative workplace environment.
There are three accommodation offerings at Castle Leslie Estate –The Lodge,The Castle and The Old Stable Mews.The Lodge, which is a 50-bedroom hotel, is the hub of the estate, housing the ne dining restaurant, Snaf es, Conor’s Bar & Lounge as well as their spa,TheVictorian Treatment Rooms. It is adjacent to their world-class Equestrian Centre, making it ideal for those wishing to explore the estate on horseback.
Boasting authentic interiors and old-style hospitality,The Castle is a 21-bedroom Country House overlooking Glaslough Lake. It exudes old world grandeur and offers complete respite from the world.
The Castle is not a typical hotel experience. It has many reception rooms for guests to unwind and relax in, from the drawing room with a Bechstein
Best Wishes and C tinued Success to Castle Leslie Estate
CastleLeslieEstate isrichinhistoryand o ersaverygenuine authenticexperience. Itisahomeaway fromhome,where peoplefeeltheyare amillionmilesaway fromanywhere.It’s notyourstandard hotel
target shooting, archery, walking trails and spa treatments.
WEDDINGS
The ultimate wedding venue, Castle Leslie Estate’s wedding packages are very much bespoke and centred around what couples are looking for.There is a dedicated team onsite to take prospective clients through the process and show what the estate has to offer as a wedding venue.
Part of the charm of having any private event at Castle Leslie Estate is that The Castle and all its 21 bedrooms are exclusively yours for the day and night.This is something unique and creates a really special experience for guests.
“Castle Leslie Estate is rich in history and offers a very genuine authentic experience. It is a home away from home, where people feel they are a million miles away from anywhere. It’s not your standard hotel,” Kevin concludes.
Castle Leslie Estate has been in the Leslie family since 1665 when it was sold by Sir Thomas Ridgeway to the Bishop of Clogher John Leslie, who died six years later at the age of 100.The original deed to the Castle is still in the family archives.
The Majestic Hotel in Tramore, Co. Waterford celebrated a hat-trick of successes at the 2024 Irish Hotel Awards.
The luxury 4-Star seaside hotel was one of the big winners at the annual awards ceremony which took place in The Johnstown Estate, En eld and recognises the best and brightest in the industry. It took home three awards for Best Waterside WeddingVenue in Munster, Best Afternoon Tea in Munster and Best Bar Manager in Ireland for Evan Kennedy. These prestigious accolades underscore The Majestic Hotel’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
“We were delighted with our success
at the Irish Hotel Awards,” The Majestic Hotel’s General Manager Laura McBrinn enthuses.
“The Best Waterside Wedding and Afternoon Tea awards re ect our dedication to providing exceptional experiences for both casual visitors and special occasions, while Evan’s award for Best Bar Manager in Ireland is an incredible achievement which showcases his outstanding leadership and dedication to hospitality.
‘’These awards are a tribute to our incredible team, whose dedication makes everything we do possible. It’s a
lovely recognition for them.As a familyrun hotel, we pride ourselves on our exceptional, personalised service. Every guest receives a warm welcome and is greeted with a smile. Our goal at all times is to provide an unparalleled guest experience.”
The Majestic Hotel is your perfect seaside escape.Whether you’re seeking luxury and relaxation or an adventurelled getaway, you’re guaranteed an experience lled with warmth, comfort and personal care.
“The team is the heart of any successful hotel in my opinion,” Laura
continues.
“They elevate the guest experience, building relationships that keep visitors coming back.”
Our staff have a genuine passion for the hospitality sector and revel in customer interaction.We know how important it is to create lasting memories, and we’re here to ensure that every moment of our guest’s stay is special.”
From humble beginnings,The Majestic Hotel has established itself as one of the leading family hotels in the South-East. Laura’s grandparents Annette and Danny
Devine ran the hotel for 35 years before passing her the baton three years ago. Laura’s mother Sharon is also involved as a director. Sadly,Annette passed away last Christmas Eve, leaving the family heartbroken.
“She gave me the love for the business,” Laura proudly states.
“My grandparents bought the premises in 1987 as an apartment hotel and turned it into the very successful 4-Star 60-bedroom hotel you see today. In the last ve years, every section of the hotel has been completely refurbished to a high, luxurious standard, including
the lobby, bar and restaurant. None of this would have happened without the drive and ambition of my grandmother who leaves a lasting legacy which we are determined to uphold.”
Nestled along the stunning Waterford coastline and only a 10-minute drive from Waterford City,The Majestic Hotel offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean,Tramore Lake and lush green landscapes.Whether you seek a tranquil getaway or an adventure- lled escape, The Majestic Hotel is your perfect haven.
With elegantly-appointed rooms, gourmet dining and exceptional service, Laura and her 60-strong team members are dedicated to making your stay unforgettable. Discover the beauty of Tramore, unwind in serene surroundings, and let them pamper you with their warm Irish hospitality.Your perfect
holiday awaits.
Whether you’re here to enjoy the fresh seaside air, take in panoramic views or explore the beautiful coastline, the award-winning family-run hotel promises a stay where nature’s beauty meets warm hospitality.
“Many of our rooms have stunning waterside views of the Bay of Tramore or Tramore Lake,” the affable General Manager points out.
Tramore is a vibrant and lively coastal town that offers a wealth of activities and amenities.Whether it’s sur ng, swimming, walking, golf, cycling, exploring the local area or lazing on the 5km stretch of golden sands, there is something for everyone. Located on the Copper Coast UNESCO Global Geopark, which is home to stunning cliffs, rich geological heritage and coastal beauty,Tramore is the perfect base to explore all the Sunny South-East has to offer.
The Majestic Hotel offers a range of beautifully-appointed rooms designed to suit every guest.You can choose from luxurious sea view rooms, indulgent suites or classic rooms, each thoughtfully designed with your comfort in mind. Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing seaside escape or an action-packed adventure, the rooms provide a perfect blend of modern amenities and cozy charm. Enjoy elegant decor and stunning views whilst having a restful and rejuvenating stay.
Passionate about good food,The Majestic Hotel’s wonderful team of chefs work hard at creating menus catered towards their customers’ liking.They focus on fresh, seasonal and local food from local suppliers and producers. Whether it’s a casual bite in the lounge bar or an elegant dinner in the restaurant, the hotel’s food and beverage team are here to ensure you feel looked after, making every dining moment special.
Furthermore,The Majestic Hotel is the perfect location for your wedding. The Majestic Hotel Garden Room is specially designed for weddings and is beautifully appointed with lots of natural daylight and panoramic sea views.There is extensive free car parking provided for guests and the hotel has its own private landscaped gardens for those precious wedding photos.
The Majestic Hotel is also the ideal setting for special events.Whether you are celebrating a wedding, christening, communion, con rmation, birthday, family dinner, life celebration, reunion or any social gathering, it is dedicated to making your event truly unforgettable.
“We have a great name for hosting weddings and this is re ected in our award for Best Waterside Wedding Venue in Munster.We deliver exemplary service, food and a memorable occasion for all of our brides, grooms and wedding parties.
“As well as being a social hub for the local community, we have conference facilities that can cater for anywhere
between 40 and 250 people.We are well-equipped to handle conferences, seminars and corporate events.”
The Majestic Hotel’s recent recognition at the Irish Hotel Awards is a true testament to the dedication of the incredible team that makes every guest experience unforgettable. From breathtaking waterside views to awardwinning dining, this family-run hotel is the perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying the serene beauty of Tramore, or simply unwinding in luxurious surroundings,The Majestic Hotel promises an experience lled
with warmth, comfort, and personal care.
“Come and discover the charm of our hotel, where nature’s beauty meets exceptional hospitality.
“Your perfect stay awaits.,”Laura concludes.
Tourism Ireland and partners highlight direct ights from Milan to Knock
TOURISM Ireland partnered with Ireland West Airport Knock to promote direct ights and ease of access from Milan Bergamo to Knock to key Italian travel professionals and journalists.
Fourteen Irish tourism companies – from hotels and distilleries to outdoor activities and heritage sites –connected with around 60 leading Italian tour operators, travel agents and journalists at a B2B workshop and networking event. Guests also enjoyed some delicious Irish produce, prepared by Good Food Ireland.
Tourism Ireland aims to sustainably support the economies of communities right across the island, growing revenue to our regions outside of the peak summer season by an average of +6.5% per year to 2030. A key part of that strategy involves working with
regional airports and airlines to promote ights which deliver visitors right to our regions.
Marcella Ercolini, Tourism Ireland’s Manager Italy, said: “We were delighted to partner with Ireland West Airport Knock, Good Food Ireland and our tourism industry partners to highlight ease of access from Milan Bergamo to Knock with Ryanair – as well as some of the many things to see and do along the beautiful Wild Atlantic Way. Our aim is to inspire potential holidaymakers to choose Ireland and sustainably support local economies and communities by driving bookings on ights to regional airports like Ireland West Airport Knock.”
A similar event will take place in Cologne, Germany, to highlight Ryanair ights from Cologne to Knock.
DISCOVER ONE OF IRELAND’S MOST BEAUTIFUL HIDDEN GEMS, PERFECT FOR AN OVERNIGHT GETAWAY!
NESTLED BETWEEN THE MAJESTIC SLIEVE FOYE AND THE SERENE WATERS OF CARLINGFORD LOUGH, this charming medieval town offers a blend of history, boutique shopping, and breathtaking scenic views. Experience luxury, comfort, relaxation, and top-class service at the award-winning Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford. Keep an eye out for mid-week offers and flash sales — head to our website or call the team for the best deals.
