‘A European classic without being fussy’ – Irish hotel makes Conde Nast Traveler Gold List for 2025

"These are the hotels and cruises we recommend to our friends, that we tell stories about later."

That’s the pitch for Condé Nast Traveler’s annual Gold List, and for 2025 it includes a single property in Ireland.

Adare Manor is described as a neo-Gothic country hotel in Co Limerick, and one of the properties "where our editors stay".

"It somehow manages to capture that European classic hotel without being fussy, and without being a Disney-esque pastiche of the past," says Noo Saro-Wiwa, a writer for the influential title.

Interiors are described as "incredible", with features like stained-glass windows, gold-leaf ceilings and towering fireplaces, and staff "asking how you are, and catering for your every need".

"Rural breaks have never felt so ennobling," she says.

Midweek B&B rates at the five-star, due to host the Ryder Cup in 2027, start from 695ドル in the coming months.

Condé Nast has published its Gold List for 31 years, describing it as "an annual compendium of hotels and cruises we’ve discovered, or fallen in love with all over again".

The 2025 edition is its January cover story, with dozens of recommendations ranging from Gstaad Palace in Switzerland to Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland and the Ritz Carlton in New York.

"We highlight them not only for their beauty, comfort, or impeccable service, but also because we’ve developed deeply emotional relationships with them," it says.

The nod caps a bumper year for Adare Manor, the five-star resort owned, refurbished and developed at enormous cost by JP McManus and family.

It was also named best resort in Europe in the title’s Readers’ Choice Awards, and was one of just two Irish hotels to gain three Michelin Keys in its inaugural list.

"Being chosen as one of their absolute favourite destinations by editors who have experienced the very best, all over the world, is really gratifying," said general manager Brendan O’Connor.

"I know that the professionalism and passion of each team member has contributed to this wonderful listing."

Adare Manor offers guests Michelin-star dining in The Oak Room and a Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course, among its facilities, and recently added a new Harry Lowes Chocolate experience.

Last year, Cashel Palace in Cashel, Co Tipperary, was announced as the sole Irish hotel on the 2024 Gold List.

The Gold List 2025 is on cntraveller.com