Two Irish hotels have retained their 5-star rating in the Forbes' Travel Guide, with two other hotels awarded a 4-star rating in this year's edition.
Adare Manor in Co. Limerick and Ashford Castle in Co. Mayo were awarded the top rating in the latest guide, which was published online today.
The Conrad and The Merrion, both in Dublin, were awarded a 4-star rating, while the Spa at Ashford Castle was the only Irish spa destination awarded a rating.
Forbes' Travel Guide has been reviewing locations and resorts for over 60 years and is one of the oldest-running travel guides in the United States. It also claims to be the "only independent, global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas".
The process for reviewing is rigorous, with anonymous inspectors visiting every property the company rates, evaluating based on up to 900 objective criteria from distinctive dining experiences to luxurious beds, intuitive guest care and supreme service. Each hotel stay spans a minimum of two nights, and are paid for by Forbes.
Adare Manor located in Adare, Co Limerick is one of the country's most luxurious resorts, and due to host the Ryder Cup in 2027. Ashford Castle in Co Mayo is a stately property that is renowned for its historic design and location nestled among rolling green fields.
The Fitzwilliam Hotel in Dublin, InterContinental in Dublin, The K Club in Kildare, The Shelbourne Dublin, Autograph Collection, Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Doonbeg Co Clare and The Westbury in Dublin were also recommended by the travel guide.
For the full list of hotels included, click here.
