2009 Award Winners HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2009

Dromoland Castle Hotel

The West of Ireland is this country’s greatest tourism asset and, in many ways, this hotel sums up the hopes and dreams that many people have when visiting Ireland – a beautifully located castle near the west coast, with oodles of history; grand – but not too grand to be relaxing – with lakes and parkland and magnificent furnishings, it is an enchanting place, where wide corridors lined with oak panelling are hung with ancient portraits and scented with the haunting aroma of wood smoke.

Accommodation - in exceptionally comfortable guest rooms and suites with luxurious bathrooms - is mainly in the traditional style expected of a castle although some more contemporary ones (with all the attendant technical bells and whistles) are now also offered; and, whatever about the style, housekeeping is invariably good old-fashioned impeccable.

Outstanding amenities include some of the country’s best conference facilities and a recently opened Spa, which is a real stunner. But, as always, it’s the dedicated and long serving staff who really make this place special, including Head Chef David McCann and Restaurant Manager Tony Frisby, who have made for an exceptional dining experience here for many years now – and of course the warm and caring General Manager, Mark Nolan, who misses absolutely nothing.

Dromoland Castle is an outstanding example of the best of Irish hospitality - and, particularly at a time when so many fine establishments are offering unrealistic packages that inevitably lead to compromises in terms of quality and service, it is a joy to experience the very best - the steadfast dedication of the team here is something to be treasured.

A beacon of excellence in the wonderful West of Ireland.