Connoisseur Circle, a premium travel magazine published in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, presented Ireland with the prize.

A panel of travel writers and industry insiders assesses luxury hotels and locations all around the world for tourists, selecting the nominations and winners.

“I'm really delighted that Ireland has been named 'Best Luxury Newcomer Destination' in this year's prestigious Connoisseur Circle Hospitality Awards,” said Louise Finnegan, acting central marketing director for Tourism Ireland, accepting the prize. We just introduced our new luxury offer, “Ireland, where luxury comes naturally,” so this is fantastic news.

“Our message is that Ireland is the best location to replenish the heart and soul, whether you're riding horses on a beach at dusk, savouring delectable oysters in Connemara, or simply unwinding in an outdoor spa pool on the shores of a lough.

“There is a lot of choice and high standards for luxury tourists, therefore it is more crucial than ever to make Ireland stand out from other luxury vacation destinations. With this accolade, Tourism Ireland has yet another fantastic way to showcase Ireland as a top-notch luxury travel destination.

“Working in partnership with our industry partners at home and with our luxury travel buyer partners overseas, we look forward to inspiring luxury travellers to choose Ireland in 2024 and beyond.”