Ashford Castle wins Jetsetter award

THE magnificent Ashford Castle has added yet another top international accolade to its name this week after the luxury five-star property was named winner of the ‘Best Grounds’ category in the 2016 Jetsetter Best of the Best Hotel Awards.

Each year, international travel site Jetsetter recognises the finest hotels worldwide that offer outstanding experiences in 20 categories. Category winners were chosen by a team of senior travel editors from around the world.

Jetsetter commended Ashford Castle for its stunning grounds, noting that the property 'looks straight out of the pages of a fairytale - its manicured lawns, formal gardens and bucolic greens more resplendent than ever thanks to a recent $75 million renovation. While you won't have time to stroll the grounds' full expanse, the concierge can arrange horseback riding tours, fly-fishing excursions and falconry to showcase some of the landscape's best assets'.

We are honoured to be given this wonderful recognition among such great company,” says Niall Rochford, general manager of Ashford Castle.“Our grounds are an iconic part of the property, and certainly a draw for guests, between the beautiful scenery and incredible offerings available to enjoy the Irish countryside.”

This award is aptly timed following the property’s massive restoration project completed in April 2015. Restoring the castle’s gardens back to their original splendour was a major priority for Beatrice Tollman, the president and founder of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, who sought to return the grounds to the glorious state they were in when the property was home to the Guinness family.