Irish Independent inducts five properties into Hotel Hall of Fame

Armada Hotel inducted into Irish Independent Hotel Hall of Fame 2026
Hall of Fame now features five properties
Harvey’s Point, Ashford Castle, Kelly’s Resort and Adare Manor also honoured
Castle Leslie ranks highest regional entry at 40th place
Hot 100 list compiled by travel editor Pól Ó Conghaile

The Armada Hotel in Spanish Point, County Clare, has been inducted into the Irish Independent Hotel Hall of Fame as the newest number-one entry for 2026. The annual Hot 100 list compiled by travel editor Pól Ó Conghaile moves each year’s number-one hotel into an all-time greats pantheon, retiring them from future rankings. The Armada Hotel is celebrated for its coastal setting, design, commitment to the local community and the addition of the upscale Armada House.

The Hall of Fame now features five properties: Armada Hotel for 2026, Harvey’s Point in County Donegal for 2025, Ashford Castle in County Mayo for 2024, Kelly’s Resort Hotel in County Wexford for 2023, and Adare Manor in County Limerick for 2022. The list notes that star ratings matter less to guests than overall experience and quality. Castle Leslie in County Monaghan ranks highest among regional entries at 40th place, while Glasson Lakehouse in County Westmeath ranks 48th.

The Irish Independent Hot 100 Hotels list highlights leading stays across the country. The Hall of Fame recognition retires each year’s top property from future consideration, celebrating them as all-time greats of Irish hospitality.

Adare Manor, Co. Limerick (2022 Inductee): The inaugural entry in the Hall of Fame. This magnificent neo-Gothic estate features a Michelin-starred restaurant and a world-renowned golf course set to host the Ryder Cup 2027.
Armada, Co. Clare (2026 Inductee): Newly elevated to the top spot for 2026. This coastal four-star hotel at Spanish Point is celebrated for its earthy, playful design, deep commitment to the local community, and the addition of the upscale Armada House.
Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo (2024 Inductee): A historic 13th-century property and a truly world-class castle resort that sets the global benchmark for luxury, dining, and attentive service.
Harvey’s Point, Co. Donegal (2025 Inductee): A stunning lakeside resort renowned for its exceptionally large rooms and traditional, warm Donegal hospitality that consistently subverts standard star ratings.
Kelly’s Resort & Spa, Co. Wexford (2023 Inductee): A high watermark for multi-generational, family-friendly Irish hospitality, lauded for constantly innovating with features like its Sea Rooms garden restaurant.