CHEVY CHASE - In Ireland, known for its gracious hospitality and as the "Land of 1000 Welcomes", the October opening of The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt, County Wicklow, is yet another reason for travelers to discover the charms of the Emerald Isle in a region considered "The Garden of Ireland." An Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, cut the ribbon officially opening the hotel on Thursday, October 4.
Located on 10 country acres within a site first settled in the 12th century, the 200-room Palladian-inspired estate hotel blends history with traditional hospitality in County Wicklow. Situated amidst the magnificent Powerscourt Gardens, one of the country's premiere visitor attractions, the hotel's verdant natural setting will be enhanced by many luxurious attractions including a restaurant by renowned chef Gordon Ramsay, a 30,000 square foot (2,788 square meter) ESPA, and McGill's, an authentic Irish pub. Within a short drive from the city centre of Dublin, The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt embraces the rich Anglo-Norman heritage of Ireland with all of the contemporary conveniences and features today's sophisticated traveler expects, including access to two on site championship golf courses.
The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt, County Wicklow in Ireland is the first in the nation and the ninth European location as the award-winning company expands its global presence in Europe. The resort is being developed with ownership group, Treasury Holdings, a leading international property development company based in Dublin.
"Ireland is one of the world's favourite destinations, whether to explore ancient castles, search for family heritage roots, or to enjoy the varied cultural attractions. As the economy of Ireland has flourished in recent years, many corporate travelers are coming to the country on frequent business trips or for conferences, "said Simon F Cooper, president and chief operating officer of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, LLC.
"We believe Powerscourt offers visitors the convenience of nearby Dublin city with the added benefit of the chance to discover the scenic beauty of the Wicklow countryside," he said. "The Ritz-Carlton reputation for exceptional guest service, coupled with the Irish tradition of a warm welcome is the perfect blend for a hotel which will cater to leisure, corporate and group guests," Cooper added.
The seven-storey hotel exhibits many Georgian influences in its design features from the impressive lobby located on the 4th floor of the hotel with panoramic views of the Powerscourt Gardens and the Sugarloaf Mountain to the layout of the spacious guestrooms and suites.
© The Peninsula 2007
