They look after fabulous properties and have a keen eye for detail, service and style, so where do some of Ireland’s top hoteliers and general managers holiday? Read the third in a four-part series and bookmark their recommendations for your next trip …
Frits Potgieter, The Montenotte Hotel, Cork
I first encountered Camps Bay, Cape Town, while working for Red Carnation Hotels at their London properties. The company owns the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, an exquisite boutique establishment in Camps Bay that boasts breathtaking views of both the ocean and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. I highly recommend exploring the nearby wine routes. A trip to Franschhoek is a must, as is lunch at the Delaire Graff Estate in Stellenbosch, where you can enjoy stunning views, exceptional wines and impressive art collections. As a wine enthusiast, I can attest to the world-class quality of the wines produced in this region. Camps Bay holds a special place in my heart. As an Afrikaans speaker, I feel at home hearing my native language. And the backdrop of Table Mountain against the sea creates a truly spectacular Cape Town setting that never fails to impress. @frits8537
Ludo de Jong, Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel
Last year, my family and I embarked on an unforgettable road trip across the US, exploring the natural wonders and national parks of the West Coast. Each location left us in awe, but one that particularly captivated us (especially my two boys) was Wander Camp Grand Canyon. Nestled in the heart of Dark Sky Country, Wander Camp Grand Canyon offers a unique glamping experience. This rustic yet luxurious camp allows guests to immerse themselves in nature, while enjoying the comforts of home. The campfire at night, under a canopy of stars, was a magical experience that we (especially my sons) will cherish forever. The proximity to the Grand Canyon National Park provided us with endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. @anantarathemarkerdublin
Martin Mangan, Carton House, a Fairmont Managed Hotel, Co Kildare
My favourite hotel to visit right now is The Savoy, London. It’s not stuffy, it’s warm, understated, welcoming and dripping in history, having welcomed everybody from royalty to presidents and countless celebrities in its 125-year history. Its first GM was none other than Caesar Ritz. It’s as much a destination as it was when it first opened.
The hotel design is dominated by two styles – a very fine example of traditional Edwardian, plus Art Deco. The public spaces are always buzzing with guests coming and going, so it’s great for people watching. And its location on Strand, steps from the West End, Covent Garden, is perfect for exploring London.
The hotel’s legendary afternoon tea is not to be missed and the choice of dining is superb, from the famous Savoy Grill run by Gordon Ramsey, 1890, a Michelin-starred restaurant; the American Bar, the longest surviving cocktail bar in London,;the Beaufort Bar, which is set to re-open in 2025; and Simpsons on the Strand, which dates to 1828. I can’t wait to return – The Savoy’s Managing Director Franck Arnold and his team welcome guests with open arms, service and kindness. @cartonhouse.fairmont
Gavin Carroll, The Merchant Hotel, Belfast, Co Antrim
I didn’t think I was a cruise person, until I went on a cruise. There’s this perception that it’s just one giant floating village, but it’s so much more than that. Every day brings new experiences, new languages, cultures, currencies. It’s a really exciting way to see the world and to make the travel between places enjoyable too. I’m not the type who can stay still on holidays – I’d love to be able to sit and read a book by the pool, but I’m not built for it. Being out, about and exploring new places, getting to meet the people and experience the culture, is what I enjoy most. I’ve been on four cruises in the last year and they were all amazing. If I had to choose a favourite, I’d say the Eastern Mediterranean cruise was the standout, which explored the Greek islands and Turkey. It was just so incredibly beautiful, the food was out of this world, and the people were wonderful and so welcoming. On board, the crews are brilliant too. Every night, when they do the turn down in your bedroom, they would leave a leaflet on the city you’re visiting the next day, with some local phrases you can use and points of interest. You wake up with a fresh holiday every morning; it really is hard to beat. @merchantbelfast
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