Clare hotel makes it into prestigious world top 20

The Lodge at Doonbeg, Co Clare, has been ranked 20th among the world’s top 100 hotels and resorts by Condé Nast Traveler, one of the most respected and trusted names in travel.

The country club-style development, which combines a golf course, purpose-built hotel and onsite houses, is the only Irish destination included on the exclusive list.

Nearly 80,000 readers, the highest number ever, took part in the survey and gave Doonbeg a choice rating of 97.3. Doonbeg looks like an aristocrat’s stately 19th century home but was, in fact, built in 2006 by the developers of South Carolina’s Kiawah Island and designed by Americans.

“What is very real about Doonbeg is its stunning setting on a remote, white-capped bay in west Clare, the perfection of its every detail and staff who are easily among the most welcoming in Ireland,” said Condé Nast Traveler.

Doonbeg general manager, Joe Russell, was delighted that Doonbeg had been included on such an exclusive list.

“It is extremely gratifying to be so highly rated amongst such a prestigious collection of the world’s best resorts.

“This really solidifies Doonbeg as a luxury destination,” he said.

In the number one slot is The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs at Matauri Bay in New Zealand, where guests felt like they are treated royalty.

Readers gave the plantation-style lodge a 99.2 rating.

Other destinations to make the top 100 include Gleneagles, in Scotland which will host next year’s Ryder Cup, as well as luxury London hotels — The Connaught and Soho.

Condé Nast readers also rated the top 10 hotels in Dublin, Cork, Donegal, Galway, and Connemara.

Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, Connemara, Co Galway, was given the top ranking, followed by the Merrion in Dublin.

Hayfield Manor Hotel, Cork, was ranked fourth.