AFTER laying off three quarters of its workforce because of Covid restrictions, there was better news for Adare Manor this week when the five star Limerick hotel and golf resort was named Ireland’s Leading Hotel for the second year in a row at the World Travel Awards.
The news comes on the back of the third anniversary of the Manor’s re-opening following extensive restoration works carried out by billionaire owner and horse racing tycoon JP McManus.
The World Travel Awards which recognise excellence in travel and tourism, involves a year-long search for the world’s top travel, tourism and hospitality brands with votes cast by travel industry professionals and the public.
Around 300 of the 400 workers employed at the hotel and golf resort were temporarily laid off when the Level Five Covid restrictions were introduced two weeks ago.
A statement issued to the Sunday Independent said that “in line with the travel restrictions in place under Level Five of the Government’s response strategy, Adare Manor, like many hospitality providers across the country, has had to implement a temporary closure which has temporarily impacted around 300 members.
The resort plans to open early next month, in line with travel restrictions and health guidelines with Christmas bookings already described as “strong”.
Hosts to the Ryder Cup in 2027, Adare Manor’s Carriage House recently won ‘World’s Best Golf Clubhouse’ in the 2020 World Golf Awards as well as the accolade ‘Ireland’s Best Hotel’ and, for the second year running, ‘Ireland’s Best Golf Course’.
Adare Manor chief executive, Colm Hannon said all at the hotel resort felt “truly honoured“ with the awards received.
The World Travel Awards “is hugely competitive due to the many exceptional world-class hotels and resorts we have here in Ireland,” Hannon remarked.
“It is with great pride that we accept this recognition on behalf of our dedicated team who strive to make quality and elegance the hallmark of every stay at the historic Adare Manor resort.”
They were all the more grateful with the support “locally, nationally, and internationally, particularly during these challenging times”.
Adare Manor reopened in November 2017 following an extensive restoration, refurbishment and expansion programme over a 21-month period.
Mr McManus purchased the entire resort for an estimated €30 million in 2015 from US couple Tom and Judy Kane who acquired it in 1987 from the Earl of Dunraven.
The Martinstown native has raised millions for charity through his star-studded Pro-Am golfing tournaments at the Manor.
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the JP McManus Pro-Am Committee has announced the postponement of the tournament until 5th & 6th July 2021.
The event is a complete sell-out and all caps that were purchased for 2020, will be valid for the rescheduled 2021 event, as will all on-site parking and Park & Ride passes.
Further information about the rescheduled event will be anounced in the coming months.
