The Forbes Travel Guide released its ratings for 2025, adding two new luxury properties in Ireland to its Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star ranking – the top rating possible and the ultimate gold standard in global hospitality, bringing the total to 13 on the island
The newly included hotels are Hayfield Manor located in Cork and The Europe in Killarney, Co Kerry, both recognized as ‘Recommended’ properties for the year.
In addition to the inclusion, The Europe’s ESPA received a rating upgrade to a Four-star designation, enhancing its profile in the luxury hotel market.
Ashford Castle has retained its Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star ranking for a sixth consecutive year.. Its affiliate Spa at Ashford was also awarded a 5-star rating. Adare Manor in Co Limerick was the third Irish property given the top rating.
The Conrad and Merrion Hotel in Dublin and ESPA at The Europe in Co Kerry were awarded a 4-star rating. Fitzwilliam Hotel in Dublin, InterContinental in Dublin, The Shelbourne Dublin, Trump International in Doonbeg and The Westbury in Dublin complete the list of 13.
Macau was cemented as the 5-star hotel destination in the world, according to the guide, with 24 properties awarded their top ranking. London came in second, with 20 5-star properties, including newcomer The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, where Oscar Wilde once lived.
Forbes’ Travel Guide has been reviewing locations and resorts for over 60 years and is one of the oldest-running travel guides in the United States. It also claims to be the “only independent, global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas”.
The editors shared: “Incognito inspectors pose as everyday guests—checking in at hotels, embarking on cruises, taking in spa treatments and dining at fine restaurants. They test hundreds of exacting standards that emphasize exceptional service, which accounts for 70pc of a property’s rating. The quality and condition of the facilities account for the remaining 30pc.”
