These are the three new properties added to Ireland's Blue Book in its 50th year
Ireland's Blue Book has unveiled three new properties.
Three new properties have been added to Ireland’s Blue Book as the collection of country house hotels, manor houses, castles, and restaurants celebrates its 50th birthday.
Adding to the Blue Book's rich tapestry, the selection includes a waterside estate in Kerry, a hidden treasure in Kildare, and a Michelin-star dining experience in Dublin. The new additions bring the total number of properties in Ireland’s Blue Book to 65.
Owned by well-known hotelier John Brennan and his wife Gwen, Dromquinna Manor Estate in Kerry is set on 40 acres. The waterfront property has a collection of places to stay including luxury camping, estate houses, potting sheds, and “The Hideaway”.
The safari-style tents on the property offer guests a unique night away and the opportunity to connect with nature without compromising on comfort.
Michelle Maguire CEO of Ireland’s Blue Book says Dromquinna Manor Estate offers customers a luxurious but alternative option to a typical hotel stay. Speaking on the selection process, she says it is all about what their customers are looking for.
“We want our customers to use their Blue Book vouchers, so we have our five-star hotels, and [Dromquinna Manor Estate] is luxury but it’s a different option. It’s about offering options to our guests,” she says, adding that food is also really important. "The Boathouse restaurant is really cute, and we think our clients will love that.”
The news comes as John and Francis Brennan's Park Hotel in Kenmare has been sold for an undisclosed sum to Irish businessman and social entrepreneur Bryan Meehan.
The second new addition, Cliff at Lyons is a restored 18th-century village in the heart of Kildare. It includes a botanically inspired Well in the Garden Spa, a period-style restaurant, an artisanal gourmet café, and a selection of event venues. As well as that, there are plenty of accommodation options including country cottages.
The third new property is Glover's Alley by Andy McFadden, a contemporary dining experience overlooking St Stephen’s Green in Dublin’s city centre. The Michelin-star restaurant offers a fusion of local Irish produce with a touch of French inspiration.
The announcement of the three additions to Ireland’s Blue Book was made at the Merrion Hotel on Wednesday evening. It comes as Ireland’s Blue Book marks its 50th anniversary.
“In commemorating fifty illustrious years of Ireland's Blue Book, we take immense pride in the high standards we've set, the enduring friendships we've cultivated along the way, and most significantly, the cherished guests we've had the honour to serve,” says Michelle Maguire.
“As we celebrate this significant milestone, we look forward to marking this momentous year in 2024 and turning a new Blue Book page to all that lies ahead for our members and their guests."
Established in 1974, Ireland’s Blue Book is a collection of country house hotels, manor houses, castles, and restaurants across Ireland, offering guests a unique and unforgettable experience.
While there are properties all across the island of Ireland, Maguire notes how Cork and Munster have always been “well represented”.
Ballymaloe House in East Cork was one of the founding members of Ireland’s Blue Book.
