2015 Award Winners PET FRIENDLY HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2015

Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Co Clare

At a time when it is vital to find creative ways to attract new business, Ireland is missing a trick when it comes to pet friendliness. We lag way behind our UK neighbours in this – a market that we would dearly like to win over; if you google an area in Britain looking for somewhere to stay, chances are that pet friendly options will pop straight up. Water bowls are put out at doors and in bars wherever you go and dogs are genuinely welcome almost everywhere. But, although it is far from the norm, many establishments here have quietly welcomed dogs for years, and maybe we’re seeing the light as it’s been very noticeable in the last couple of years that a growing number are now recognising the opportunities in this market – including, interestingly, some 5* star hotels. And why not, if you want to persuade holidaymakers to by-pass the airport...

Renowned as a top destination for food lovers, Simon and Freddie Haden’s quietly luxurious country house also offers simple joys like warming turf fires and stunning views across the Burren landscape. The interiors are simply lovely.

By artfully blending antique furniture and paintings with contemporary textiles and interesting modern Irish art, Freddie has created a thoughtfully understated, yet luxurious, contemporary style - immaculate surroundings that would not usually sound promising for people travelling with dogs.

But, while the public areas of the hotel are not suitable for pets, ‘particularly loved four-legged friends’ are welcome to stay with their owners in a "doggy" room with its own sheltered outdoor area, an outdoor kennel and an indoor play pen/bed for inclement weather.

Unusually, this does not involve a compromise for pet owners, who will also be extremely comfortable - and what better place to bring your dog than the west of Ireland, where there is so much emphasis on enjoying the outdoor life.

And, within the grounds, a small area of woodland has been cleverly managed with meandering paths, providing a compact but interesting area for evening and morning exercise. A magic destination for dog lovers.