Aghadoe Heights claims four Irish Hotel Awards

Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa wins four awards, including Best 5-Star Hotel, Best Fine Dining and Best Afternoon Tea

Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa in Killarney is celebrating a remarkable achievement at the prestigious Irish Hotel Awards 2026, taking home four awards, the highest number won by any hotel this year.

The luxury five-star hotel in Kerry, part of the TMR Collection, was recognised for excellence across hospitality, dining and wellness, taking the top title of Overall Winner in three categories: Best 5-Star Hotel, Best Afternoon Tea, and Best Fine Dining, while also winning Best Spa Experience (Munster).

The Irish Hotel awards, which were held in Dundalk this week, recognise Ireland’s leading hotels, resorts and hospitality teams. Winners are selected through a rigorous judging process that includes independent and in-depth inspections, designed to identify hotels that deliver outstanding guest experiences with authenticity, innovation and heart. The awards are widely regarded as one of Ireland’s most respected hospitality accolades, recognising excellence across every aspect of hotel operations.

Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa’s multiple wins reflect the dedication, passion and commitment of its entire team to delivering exceptional guest experiences in one of Ireland’s most stunning destinations.

A key highlight of the awards was the hotel’s success in both culinary categories. Fine Dining at Aghadoe Heights is led by executive head chef Cyrille Durand, whose commitment to culinary excellence, local provenance and innovative dining experiences has firmly established the hotel’s reputation as one of Ireland’s premier gastronomic destinations.

The recognition for Best Afternoon Tea follows the recent launch of the hotel’s’ elegant new four-course Afternoon Tea experience, thoughtfully designed to encourage guests to pause, savour and connect with the spectacular landscape overlooking the Lakes of Killarney. The concept moves away from the traditional tiered stand presentation Executive Head Chef Cyrille Durand and Head Pastry Chef Eric Besson have created four carefully curated courses, allowing guests to enjoy each element at a relaxed pace while enjoying a menu that celebrates local ingredients, delicate flavours and refined pâtisserie craftsmanship.

The hotel’s continued investment in luxury wellness was recognised with the award for Best Spa Experience (Munster). The award-winning spa is led by Spa Manager Lorna Jankovic, who joined the hotel this year to spearhead the next phase of development and enhance the guest wellness experience. Under her leadership, the spa continues to build on its reputation as one of Ireland’s premier wellness destinations.

Commenting on the achievement, Brian Bowler, general manager of Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, said: “To be recognised with four awards at the Irish Hotel Awards, including three overall national titles, is an extraordinary honour and a proud moment for everyone at Aghadoe Heights. These awards are a testament to the passion, creativity and dedication of our entire team, who consistently strive to deliver exceptional experiences for every guest.”

“We are particularly delighted to see our Fine Dining and Afternoon Tea experiences receive national recognition. Our culinary team continues to push the boundaries of excellence while showcasing the incredible produce and hospitality that Kerry is known for. We are equally proud that our spa team, reflecting our ongoing investment in luxury wellness. To also be named Best 5-Star Hotel overall is a wonderful endorsement of the exceptional experience our team delivers across every moment of the guest journey.”

These awards further strengthen Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa’s position as one of Ireland’s leading luxury destinations, offering guests an exceptional combination of five-star accommodation, award-winning dining, world-class wellness facilities and breathtaking views over Killarney’s lakes and mountains.