Adare Manor in Co Limerick and Ballyfin Demesne in Co Laois scooped the highest award of Three Keys by the Michelin Guide — which revealed its new award categories on Tuesday.
Similarly to the famous Michelin Stars handed out to the upper echelon of restaurants, the new category judges hotels and resorts on their accommodation experiences based on anonymous stays and visits by the Michelin Guide’s inspection team.
Each hotel awarded the Michelin Key is selected based on five criteria: an open door to the destination, architectural excellence, individuality, quality of service, and value for money.
Adare Manor and Ballyfin Demesne are categorised as an ‘extraordinary stay’.
The inaugural Michelin Guide Ireland and Britain selection includes 14 three key hotels, 37 two key hotels and 72 hotels who picked up one key.
14 Irish hotels received at least one star.
Brendan O’Connor, General Manager of Adare Manor, said the award is a testament to the “dedication and passion” of each member of staff.
“We are incredibly honoured to be awarded three Michelin Keys, joining an exclusive list of outstanding hotels worldwide. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and passion of every member of our team, across all departments, who strive every day to create unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
General Manager of Ballyfin Demesne, Peter White said: “‘We are absolutely delighted to be one of the first Irish hotels to receive three Michelin Keys this morning. At Ballyfin Demesne, we strive for excellence in everything we do and to be recognised by Michelin is very special for all the team.
“With this three Michelin Keys accolade, we will continue to strive to be the very best to ensure our guests enjoy unforgettable experiences every time they visit.”
Elsewhere in Ireland, Cashel Place in Co Tipperary, Sheen Falls Lodge in Kenmare Co Kerry and The Merrion in Dublin picked up two Michelin Keys each, categorised as an ‘exceptional stay’.
Cork’s Castlemartyr Resort is among the nine Irish hotels that were awarded one Michelin Key, which equates to a ‘very special stay’.
All Michelin Guide hotel recommendations are available for free on the Michelin Guide website.
On Tuesday, Adare Manor was crowned the Best Resort in Europe for the third year in a row at the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
Speaking after their award, Mr O’Connor said: “This recognition means so much to us, as it reflects the opinions of the most important people to all of us at Adare Manor — our guests.
“Their continued support is the ultimate testament to the passion and commitment of our entire team, across all departments.”
