Ireland’s Ashford Castle earns accolades

Ashford Castle, Ireland’s most historic five-star castle hotel, has yet again been voted Top Resort in Ireland in “Condé Nast Traveler’s” 2011 Gold List, and one of the top hotels in Ireland in “Travel+Leisure’s” 2011 World’s Best Awards. Both rankings are based on a poll of discerning readers and can be viewed in the January editions of each publication.

“This is an honor for the entire team at Ashford Castle,” said Niall Rochford, the castle’s general manager. “Our staff is dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience to our guests, with the absolute best in service and hospitality. These awards not only validate our efforts, but give us determination to continue to be the best in Ireland.”

Ashford Castle, which dates back to 1228, is set on 350 acres of County Mayo, on the shores of Lough Corrib and the River Cong, with a spectacular backdrop of woodlands, lake, river and mountains. It features 83 guestrooms and suites and is renowned for a range of country sports including horseback riding, fly fishing, golf on an exclusive nine-hole course and Ireland’s first school of falconry. Other recent awards and recognitions include the 2010 Gold Medal from the Green Hospitality Awards and Trip Advisor’s 2010 top t10 picks for European castle hotels.

For more information on Ashford Castle, visit www.ashford.ie.