Adare Manor, located in Co Limerick, and Ballyfin Demesne in Co Laois, have both been accorded the highest recognition of three keys each from the esteemed Michelin Guide, which announced its newest selection of one, two, or three key distinctions for the most exceptional hotel establishments in the UK and Ireland today.
This prestigious hotel rating system, showcasing the Michelin keys, mirrors their renowned star-rating system for restaurants and was implemented to celebrate the pinnacle of hotel excellence.
Only 14 hotels in the UK and Ireland were granted the esteemed three-key rating by the Michelin Guide for 2024. 37 hotels earned two keys, and 72 hotels were bestowed with one key. Among those proud recipients, Cashel Palace in Co Tipperary, The Merrion in Dublin, and Sheen Falls Lodge in Co Kerry each received two keys, symbolising an extraordinary stay”. Meanwhile, nine establishments in the Republic had the honour of one key, symbolising a very special stay”.
Ballyfin Demesne’s general manager, Peter White, expressed his delight over the distinguished accolade. He emphasised the team’s dedication to excellence and highlighted the honour of being one of the first Irish hotels to be recognised with three Michelin keys.
Likewise, Brendan O’Connor, general manager of Adare Manor, was grateful for the recognition, praising the passion and commitment of his team in providing memorable experiences for their guests.
In terms of Michelin recognition, the decisions for the key hotel and star restaurant selection are made separately, making it feasible for a Michelin-starred restaurant to be housed within a Michelin-key hotel. Both Adare Manor and Cashel Palace are home to one-star Michelin restaurants. Ballyfin Demesne is also anticipated to receive its debut star in the impending announcements of awards early next year.
In addition to the Michelin recognition, Adare Manor has also been named the Best Resort in Europe in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards for this year.
With a score of 98.13, Adare Manor is amongst eight prestigious Irish establishments listed in the Top 20, closely accompanied by Ashford Castle in Mayo (4), Trump International Golf Links and Hotel in Doonbeg (5), and Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare (6). Participants were required to evaluate diverse aspects such as ambiance, dining, service, and the overall visitor experience.
Adare Manor achieved the title of the leading resort internationally in 2022, securing its position as a popular choice amongst the readers of Condé Nast Traveller. The resort has also been elected as the top European destination for the third year in a row. Situated on the banks of River Maigue, the grand manor boasts an exquisite Michelin-star restaurant named the Oak Room, a spa, an 840-acre garden, and a championship golf course that has been meticulously designed by Tom Fazio.