Blue Book Press Releases

November 2011: Ireland's Blue Book is delighted to announce that on November 9th, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport, Michael Ring TD presented second generation owners and husband and wife team Simon Haden and Frederieke McMurray of the world class Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare with the award of ‘AA Ireland’s Hotel of the Year’ for 2011/2012, the most prestigious prize in the Irish Hospitality Industry.

Run by the Haden family since 1967 significantly Gregans Castle Hotel is the first ever AA Three Red Star property in the long and respected history of the AA Ireland Accommodation grading scheme to be named ‘AA Ireland’s Hotel of the Year’. Judged on the basis of its performance within its chosen field, the Burren retreat fought off tough competition from Ireland’s finest properties including five star resorts to be crowned the ultimate winner.

On its journey to becoming ‘AA Ireland Hotel of the Year 2011/2012’ Gregans Castle Hotel was also awarded the ‘AA Ireland Courtesy and Care Award’ in 2006 in acknowledgement of their passion and commitment to excellent Irish Hospitality. It was also awarded AA Red Star status in 1994, a standard it has retained ever since making it a consistent leader within the Country House Hotel category and an ‘AA Inspectors Choice Hotel’.

A highlight of any stay at Gregans Castle Hotel is a visit to its restaurant, ‘The Dining Room’ which was awarded 3 AA Rosettes in 2010 making it one of only six restaurants in Ireland to hold 3 AA Rosettes or higher. The awarding of 3 AA Rosettes is a true mark of culinary excellence and a salute to the extraordinary cookery of their acclaimed Finnish Head Chef, Mickael Viljanen. Mouth watering specialties at ‘The Dining Room’ include organic Burren lamb and beef and fresh Atlantic fish and shellfish. AA Hotel Inspectors described Viljanen dishes which display a high level of intricacy and imagination as being served with real panache. They also commended the use of fresh produce sourced from local artisan producers and lots of woodland foraging for fungi and herbs. Breakfast with its freshly baked breads, stewed fruits, local yoghurts and selection of hot dishes are also a real highlight at Gregans.

Speaking at the ceremony Minister Ring said “Hospitality professionals such as Simon, Frederieke and their award winning peers here today are true ambassadors for Irish Tourism. 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.”

A country house hotel at its best, Gregans Castle Hotel which is located at the foot of The Corkscrew Hill with breathtaking views of Galway Bay and Ballyvaghan Valley, offers its guests an oasis of comfort where they can unwind, soak up genuine hospitality and enjoy mouth watering cuisine.

To claim this year’s title of ‘AA Ireland Hotel of the Year’ Gregans Castle Hotel faced the dual task of demonstrating both excellence and improvement within the 18 months leading up to the awards. While already celebrated for its superior hospitality and outstanding modern European cuisine the constant investment by Simon and Frederieke in the tasteful upkeep of this gracious country house was one of the key factors in their success this year according to inspectors.

Guests at Gregans Castle Hotel are greeted by elegant antique furniture, welcoming open fires, candle light, generous jugs of fresh cut flowers, modern art and individually decorated bedrooms which are named after areas of The Burren countryside. Each bedroom boasts an enchanting view of Gregan’s delightful grounds and gardens which include a woodland trail. An Art Gallery showcasing works by local artists has also recently been added at Gregans Castle Hotel for guests to enjoy.

Despite noticeable sacrifices throughout the hospitality industry, stylish refurbishments have been lovingly overseen by Frederieke at Gregans Castle Hotel. Fredericke’s stylish artistic talent in design and colour is mirrored in the natural and wonderful colours of the Burren throughout the bedrooms and lounges. Rugs and carpets from the world famous and long established McMurray family business in Clifden which were set up by Fredericke’s father in Moyard in the 1970’s are lovingly chosen to match the colour schemes.

The environmental policy at Gregans Castle Hotel is another aspect which sets the Ballyvaughanproperty apart according to AA Hotel Inspectors. A special ecotourism package is available to guests which encompasses walking, bird watching, gardens and food. Bicycles are also provided free to guests and a local walking guide can be made available for walks in The Burren. In addition, Gregans Castle Hotel are a founding member of ‘The Burren Ecotourism Network’, members of ‘Slow Food Clare’, ‘The Burrenbeo Trust’ and ‘Leave No Trace.’

AA Hotel Inspectors also took note of the well judged, knowledgeable and attentive service provided by Simon and his friendly team of staff many of whom have worked there for years.

Simon Haden, Proprietor and General Manager, Gregans Castle Hotel: “Myself, Freddie and all the team here at Gregans Castle Hotel are extremely proud to be named AA Ireland Hotel of the Year 2012. We have and have had the xtraordinary good fortune to have a small committed team who are each imbued with the genuine desire to deliver the best possible product no matter how much effort it takes. Our stunning location is a lucky given but our deep felt passion and that of our staff to take the concept of a simple Country House Hotel and develop and deliver an all round world class product is what makes a proud achievement like today’s possible. This incredibly prestigious award is further evidence that developing a holistic ethos of quality, respect and customer care and an infinite commitment to improvement, innovation and environmental awareness should be the practice of any hotel or hospitality business striving to keep ahead and succeed in today’s difficult climate”.

Brendan Nevin, CEO of AA Ireland: “Gregans Castle Hotel is a superb example of intrinsic Irish Hospitality passed on from one generation to the next. Their delivery of excellent yet environmentally sustainable tourism is truly commendable. It’s an absolute pleasure to single them out as the first ever AA 3 Star property to win the illustrious title of ‘AA Ireland Hotel of the Year’. Our heartfelt congratulations go to the whole team.”

About Ireland’s Blue Book:

Ireland's Blue Book is a collection of Irish Country House Hotels, Manor Houses, Castles and Restaurants. Located throughout the island of Ireland these charming and stylish hideaways are the perfect choice for your holiday vacation in Ireland.

Activities vary from golf, fishing, spas and cookery schools or just relaxing in warm and comfortable surroundings.

With a choice of elegant Georgian Manors, Stately Castles, Historic Hotels, cosy Bed and Breakfast accommodation, Luxury Boutique Hotels and Designer Lodges, there is something to suit everyone's tastes and requirements.

Also included in the collection are three of Dublin city's finest Michelin star restaurants.

Ireland's Blue Book is the sole Irish representative association of Europe's leading heritage accommodation provider - Historic Hotels of Europe.

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