For the second consecutive year, the legendary 5 star luxury resort hotel, Ashford Castle in Cong, Co Mayo, Ireland, has been voted the Number Two Resort Hotel in Europe, and Number One in Ireland in the Conde Nast Traveller Magazine Readers� Choice Awards.

Ashford, the former country estate of Lord Guinness, rests on 350 acres of gardens and secluded woodlands and nestles on the banks of the magical Lough Corrib. Long a favourite of discerning travellers the world over, it is now recognised for the second time in the world�s largest independent poll of consumer�s travel preferences.

�What singles Ashford out is its dramatic and romantic location on the west coast of Ireland�, says general manager, Niall Rochford, �where it is surrounded by a vast estate of woodland, lake and mountains, all of which can be accessed by our guests.�

Food from Michelin award-winning chef, Stefan Matz, and a celebrated wine list created by sommelier, Robert Bowes helps make Ashford a very special experience. Add to this an outstanding programme of activities on the estate including falconry, fly fishing, horse riding, clay pigeon shooting and boating to name a few. Inside the Castle you will find libraries, beauty rooms, a range of masterclasses, professional entertainment, pressed linen, plumped up cushions and roaring fires; all delivered with the professionalism and care that is synonymous with the wonderful staff at Ashford, and you have a holiday experience of a lifetime.

�This year we are celebrating our 70th Anniversary at the Castle � and it has been one of the most challenging in our history!� says Rochford. �It is a tribute to our staff that we have been recognised for the second year running � a major achievement, and one which confirms that top quality is still the absolute byword at Ashford.�

For best rates click on www.ashford.ie.

For further press information, including press visits please contact Sue James, James PR on 00 353 857336981. For complimentary download of high resolution images of Ashford (interiors, exteriors and activities) please log on to www.leonardo.com/lhw Login = Ireland and Password = Ashford