For its 13th annual Traveler’s Choice Awards in 2015, the world’s largest travel website TripAdvisor has released its list of 10 best hotels in Ireland. For the third year in a row, Harvey’s Point in Co. Donegal takes first place; it also ranks sixth best hotel in Europe and eighteenth in the world.
"The entire team is absolutely delighted at this hat-trick of successes,” said Deirdre McGlone of Harvey’s Point. "We are very grateful to all our guests who posted reviews on TripAdvisor and for their very positive comments. It was a lovely New Year's gift as we complete our 25th Anniversary Year."
Winners are determined based on customer reviews collected over the year. The Traveler’s Choice Awards honors and ranks the world’s most outstanding hotels and B&Bs in various categories including biggest bargain, most luxurious and most romantic.
Here is Ireland’s top 10:
1. Harvey's Point, Co. Donegal
This luxury 4 star Donegal Resort Hotel sits on the shores of Lough Eske - the mystical landscape is just ten minutes from town. Perfect for couples, romantics, hikers, surfers, golfers and anyone wanting to escape the city for a bit.
2. The Merrion, Dublin City
Known for its understated and relaxed elegance, Dublin's five-star Merrion Hotel occupies some of the finest, most beautifully restored, and conveniently-located Georgian buildings in Dublin.
3. Hayfield Manor, Co. Cork
This is a family-owned, five-star boutique luxury hotel discreetly nestled within beautiful walled gardens - a peaceful oasis in the vibrant Cork city.
4. The Killarney Park Hotel, Co. Kerry
Situated on private grounds, the Killarney Park Hotel is a family-owned, luxury 5 star hotel. It is very hospitable and relaxing, and perfect for those who came to Kerry for the famous golf courses."The log fire burns brightly, the Concierge smiles warmly - your journey is over," their website reads.
5. Ballygarry House Hotel & Spa, Tralee, Co. Kerry
The luxury 4 star Ballygarry House Hotel and Spa in Tralee Co. Kerry has been in the McGillicuddy family for 3 generations. Set on 6 acres of gardens in the heart of the Kerry countryside, the hotel overlooks the glorious Sliabh Mish Mountains. It has the character and charm of a country house with luxury services.
6. Adare Manor, Co. Limerick
The 19th century Adare Manor, once home to the Earl of Dunraven, is a 62-bedroom luxury hotel and golf resort. The sparkling gem of Irish tourism is rich with history and occupies 766 acres of land as well as an 18-hole championship golf course. Visited by many reputable names like the Clintons and Tiger Woods.
7. The Dunloe, Beaufort, Co. Kerry
This 5 star luxury hotel overlooks the famous Gap of Dunloe, set on its own 64-acre estate leading to the ruins of the 12th century castle and River Laune. Only 5 miles from Killarney town.
8. River Lee Hotel, Co. Cork
Standing on a bend on the river just a stroll from the city center, the River Lee Hotel is an urban hotel within a leafy waterside setting. Right in the bustling Cork university town with a young, vibrant population, and rich cultural scene.
9. Ashford Castle, Cong, Co. Mayo
Recently ranked by Conde Nast as the second most romantic place in the world to propose, love is in the air at the glorious Ashford Castle. The medieval castle was built in 1228 - pulsing with history.
10. International Hotel, Killarney, Co. Kerry
Located in the heart of Killarney, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Killegy Church, Killarney Cathedral, and St. Mary's Cathedral. Ross Golf Club and Fitzgerald Stadium are also within 1 mile. Many luxuries included, including sheets of Egyptian cotton.
“These awards recognize the finest hotels across the globe, according to those that really matter - the guests themselves," said TripAdvisor spokesman James Kay.
Additionally, Down Yonder B&B in Co. Sligo was ranked Ireland's best Best B&B and Inn, and Dingle's Castlewood House was ranked first in the three hotel categories of smallest, most romantic and biggest bargain.
Kilkenny's Newpark Hotel was ranked first for a hotel for families, Killeen House in Aghadoe, Co. Kerry ranked first for best service.
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