The 2022 edition of the Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards were recently released. As the name suggests, the award recognizes the very best hotels and resorts around the world, as voted by the readers of Conde Nast.
While “best of” awards are far from unique, we like this edition because the recipients are determined by actual travelers, rather than the editors of the publication who may or may not be swayed by the advertising dollars of the nominees.
A number of our accommodation partners across the pond have received the Readers’ Choice Award through the years.
We send our congratulations to the friends below who were recognized in the 2022 edition.
Best Resorts in Europe
Adare Manor
Since emerging from its remarkable transformation in 2018, Adare Manor has set the standard for resorts the world over. To illustrate, Adare Manor’s 99.89 rating in the Conde Nast survey is the highest score received by any resort on the globe.
Of course, the distinction comes as no surprise to us. From the spectacular golf course (host of the 2027 Ryder Cup) to the magnificent Manor House, the experience at Adare Manor is without equal. So, too, is the praise for Adare Manor from H&B travelers.
Ending the trip at Adare Manor was the icing on the cake. First class all the way.
~Steve Rubenstein, September 2021
The Expedition led by Matthew Shottelkotte from Hyde Park Golf & Country Club at Adare Manor.
Gleneagles
For over 100 years, Gleneagles has maintained its position as the preeminent golf resort in Britain. It’s #2 ranking in the Conde Nast survey shows that there’s far more to Gleneagles than great golf. But make no mistake, the resort is home to the finest inland golf courses in Scotland.
Whether its outdoor pursuits, award-winning dining, or exceptional accommodations, Gleneagles represents the very definition of Golf and the Good Life.
Jim Gormley, PGA and his Palos Verdes Golf Club members enjoying Golf and the Good Life at Gleneagles.
Best Hotels in the U.K.
Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh – The Caledonian
“The Caley,” as it is affectionately known among Edinburgh locals, has embodied the very best in Scottish hospitality for over a hundred years.
Situated at the west end of Princes Street, this former Victorian railway hotel nestles in the shadow of the historic Edinburgh Castle and is just a short stroll from the sites of the city. Most importantly for our travelers, it’s an ideal home base for those playing the historic golf courses in East Lothian.
Credit: The Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh
Intercontinental Edinburgh – The George
Nestled in the heart of Edinburgh’s city centre, The George is comprised of a collection of fine Georgian townhouses that have served as a hotel since 1891.
In addition to the exceptional accommodations, the hotel is home to The Printing Press bar which pays homage to The George’s connection to Edinburgh’s literary legends like Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott.
Credit: Intercontinental The George Edinburgh
Rusacks St. Andrews
The Rusacks St. Andrews recently completed a multi-million pound renovation and expansion of its landmark hotel. The work has won over Conde Nast voters and H&B travelers alike.
The most notable change was a new wing featuring 44 additional guestrooms, extending its footprint along the 1st and 18th fairways of The Old Course. The rooftop restaurant – 18 St. Andrews – is a carnivore’s delight, offering dry aged steaks and local seafood alongside the finest view in The Home of Golf.
The newly renovated Rusacks was fabulous — had a wonderful view of the 1st and 18th holes as well as the stands for the Open being constructed.
~Carol Diedrichs, May 2022
The Machrie Islay
In the summer of 2018, the Machrie Hotel and Golf Links emerged from a multi-year, multi-million pound transformation.
In addition to a redesign of its enigmatic golf course, The Machrie Hotel was also on the receiving end of an extensive and transformative rebirth. The 47 guestrooms and suites are the perfect oasis for those who make the journey to Islay, offering all of the comforts required by the modern traveler. And it’s all found just a short drive from the famous whisky distilleries in Islay.
Credit: The Machrie
The Balmoral Edinburgh
In our view, The Balmoral is the Grand Dame of Scottish hotels and its famous clocktower is an unmistakable symbol of Edinburgh.
Located at the most prestigious address in Edinburgh on famed Princes Street, The Balmoral features 168 bedrooms individually designed bedrooms with elegant and stylish accents. Afternoon tea service in the Palm Court is perhaps the finest in Britain, while the menu at Scotch features over 400 offerings from around the country.
Credit: The Balmoral
Best Hotels in Ireland
Lough Eske Castle
The story of Lough Eske begins in the 14th century when it served as the seat for Clan O’Donnell. The current castle dates to 1861 and has served as a symbol of exceptional hospitality ever since.
The property consistently ranks among the finest hotels in Ireland, and is a spectacular choice for enjoying the tranquility and rugged links of Northwest Ireland.
Credit: Lough Eske Castle
Conrad Dublin
Located in the heart of Dublin’s city centre, the Conrad Dublin is fresh off a €13 million renovation of its smartly appointed guest-rooms and dining outlets.
Alfie Byrnes, the hotel’s extremely popular local pub, is a good choice for lunch or an evening libation. While Lemuel’s pays homage to Irish author Jonathan Swift with a spectacular array of handcrafted cocktails in an elegant setting.
Credit: Conrad Dublin
The Killarney Park
Any list of the best hotels in Ireland that fails to include The Killarney Park is difficult to take seriously. Thankfully, the readers of Conde Nast agree.
The Killarney Park is a five-star delight with a cozy bar, exceptional dining, and unmatched service all within a short stroll of the famous pubs, restaurants, and shopping in the town of Killarney.
Group Captain Michael Zenn and Friends start their morning at the Killarney Park Hotel
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