Waterford hotel takes home gold award at prestigious award ceremony
Pictured at the awards are Aidan Murphy, Chair of CIE Tours, and Minister of State at the Department of Transport Sean Canney with sisters Mags and Tina Darrer, of Dooley’s Hotel
Dooley’s Hotel has been named the Best Three-Star Hotel in Ireland at the 2026 CIÉ Tours Awards of Excellence.
CIÉ Tours is the largest carrier of US visitors to Ireland.
The awards, which are in their 34th year, celebrate excellence in tourism and are based on post-stay feedback from guests.
Speaking after the team took home the gold award, Dooley’s Hotel’s Tina Darrer explained why the award means so much.
“This recognition means so much to us because it comes directly from our guests. It reflects the care, consistency and pride our entire team brings to their work every day.
“To be recognised by CIÉ Tours for the fourth time and for the second consecutive year for delivering a warm, authentic Irish welcome alongside high standards of service is incredibly rewarding, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who has supported and stayed with us over the years,” said Ms Darrer.
Commenting on the awards, CIE Tours said: “We are proudly celebrating the very best of hospitality - chosen by our guests. The incredible hotels, attractions, restaurants, and local experiences that make every CIE Tours journey unforgettable.
“A special congratulations to our Gold Award winners, recognised for delivering the very best in Irish hospitality.”
