Clifftop guesthouse is best in business

A GUESTHOUSE and restaurant in Dingle, Co Kerry, has been named Guest Accommodation of the Year at the prestigious AA Ireland Hospitality Awards.

Gorman’s Clifftop House and Restaurant yesterday received the award, which is given to the best in the bed and breakfast, guesthouse and farmhouse category.

The four-star country house, owned and run by husband and wife Vincent and Síle Gorman, is in the townland of Glaise Bheag, near the fishing village of Ballydavid on the tip of the Dingle Peninsula.

What began as a modest cafe and B&B in 1980 has since been transformed into a luxurious restaurant with a nine-bedroom guesthouse.

True devotees of the hospitality and cuisine business, Síle said that it was wonderful to win the award and get recognition for all the hard work they have put into the guesthouse.

“It is our way of life, we love taking care of people and make sure that everyone that stays with us enjoys the experience.”

Síle said that one reason for the properties popularity was the beautiful location and scenery surrounding it.

“It’s in the heart of the Gaeltacht and the area is so full of culture. Each of the rooms look out onto either a sea or mountain. Its a very special area.”

Síle looks after running the accommodation side of things, while Vincent is the head chef.

The award-winning restaurant won an AA rosette standard and an AA breakfast award in May.

It offers a range of local produce and home baking and the couple grows their own vegetables, which are served at the restaurant.

Gregans Castle Hotel, Co Clare, took the AA Ireland Hotel of the Year award. To claim the accolade it faced the dual task of demonstrating both excellence and improvement within the 18 months leading up to the awards.

Galway’s Ardilaun Hotel and Leisure Club took the AA Courtesy and Care award.

Margaret Gill of Bertra House B&B, Co Mayo, was named AA Ireland Bean an Tí of the Year.

Speaking at the ceremony, Michael Ring, Minister of State at the Department of Tourism, said: “It’s essential for Ireland’s tourism industry, and for our wider economy that Irish hospitality continues to be seen as second to none, and that we continue to do ourselves proud in this area. Well done to the staff at each of the award winning establishments on their excellent achievements.”