Honouring the best hosts in Ireland

The Irish Hotel Awards 2026 took place on Monday 19 October at the Fairways Hotel in Dundalk. The awards celebrated hotels and hospitality professionals from across Ireland, recognising everything from accommodation and dining to customer service, spa experiences and the people working behind the scenes.

There is something lovely about seeing hotels you know and admire receive recognition, particularly when you know just how much work goes on behind the scenes to make a guest feel welcome.

Cork and the wider Munster region had plenty of reasons to raise a glass. The Address Cork had a particularly good night, taking home the national title of Best City Hotel as well as being named Munster winner for the Social Media Award.

The Radisson Blu Hotel in Little Island also had reason to celebrate, winning Munster awards for Best Business Hotel and Best Dog-Friendly Property. It is an interesting combination, catering for two rather different types of guest. Business travellers need comfort and efficiency, while those travelling with four-legged companions want somewhere that makes both ends of the lead feel welcome.

Further west, Dingle Skellig Hotel collected three Munster titles for Best Coastal Escape, Best Family-Friendly Hotel and Best Waterside Wedding Venue. Dingle hardly needs an introduction when it comes to scenery, food or hospitality but a beautiful location is only part of the story. Families need space and facilities to keep everyone happy, while couples planning a wedding want a setting that makes the occasion memorable. Bringing all three together is quite an achievement.

Waterford Castle Hotel & Golf Resort was another big winner, taking national titles for Best Romantic Hotel and Best Golf Experience, alongside the Munster award for Best Castle Hotel. This is one of my favourite places to be in Ireland. There is something wonderfully escapist about arriving at a castle surrounded by water and greenery, where everyday life seems to fall away for a while. Whether you are there for a romantic break or to enjoy a round of golf, the setting does a great deal of the talking.

Faithlegg is another firm favourite of mine, so I was delighted to see it recognised as national Best Country Hotel and Munster winner for Best Four-Star Lux Hotel. It has that delicate balance of elegance and warmth that makes a place feel special without becoming stuffy. Head Chef Jenny has won many awards for her outstanding food over the years and is always worth a trip to Waterford.

For me, the best hotels are not simply somewhere to sleep. They are places you remember long after checking out, whether because of the surroundings, the food or the people who looked after you.

Awards are lovely for the photographs and celebrations, but behind every one is a team of people working hard to make guests feel at home. Congratulations to all the Cork and Munster winners. It is wonderful to see our corner of Ireland continuing to make its mark on the hospitality map!