Two Irish hotels awarded 5-star rating in Forbes' Travel Guide

Two Irish hotels have once again retained their 5-star rating in the Forbes' Travel Guide for 2025.

Ashford Castle in Co Mayo was awarded a 5-star rating, the highest possible rating in the guide, for the sixth consecutive year, while its spa, The Spa at Ashford, was also awarded a 5-star rating. Adare Manor in Co Limerick was the only other Irish property given the top rating.

The Conrad and Merrion Hotel in Dublin were both once again awarded a 4-star rating, while ESPA at The Europe in Co Kerry was awarded a 4-star 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".

Explaining their process, the editors write that: "Incognito inspectors pose as everyday guests—checking in at hotels, embarking on cruises, taking in spa treatments and dining at fine restaurants. They test hundreds of exacting standards that emphasize exceptional service, which accounts for 70% of a property's rating. The quality and condition of the facilities account for the remaining 30%."

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.

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The Europe Hotel and Resort, the Fitzwilliam Hotel in Dublin, InterContinental in Dublin, Hayfield Manor in Co COrk, 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.

Macau was cemented as the 5-star hotel destination in the world, according to the guide, with 24 properties awarded their top ranking. London came in second, with 20 5-star properties, including newcomer The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, where Oscar Wilde once lived.

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For the full list of hotels included, click here.