Killarney-based hotel group, the O’Donoghue Ring Collection, is celebrating a major double win after receiving two prestigious accolades at last night’s Gold Medal Awards.

The independent, family-run business whose portfolio includes some of Killarney’s most popular hotels, bars and restaurants such as Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa, Café du Parc, The Tan Yard, Pig’s Lane, Killarney Towers Hotel, and Killarney Avenue Hotel was crowned Ireland’s Best Hotel Group, recognising its outstanding commitment to excellence and its position at the forefront of Irish hospitality.

Adding to the celebrations, Killarney Avenue Hotel was also named Ireland’s Front of House Team, an award that honours exceptional service, professionalism, and guest care.

The Gold Medal Awards are widely regarded as the leading independent awards programme in the Irish hospitality industry. Winners were announced on the evening of January 27th at a spectacular sold-out black-tie gala held at The Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway.

Managing Director of the O’Donoghue Ring Collection, Gemma Ring, said: “Winning Ireland’s Best Hotel Group is an incredible honour for our family-run business, and to see Killarney Avenue Hotel recognised for Front of House excellence makes the achievement even more special. As a group, we are constantly innovating and evolving, driving new ideas and experiences that enhance every stay, while remaining grounded in the genuine hospitality our guests know and love. This recognition reflects the dedication of our entire team across the collection, and I couldn’t be more proud of what we have achieved together.”

Other local hotel to receive medals include The Europe Hotel, The Victoria and the Gleneagle.
Silver medals went to The Great Southern and The Brehon Hotel & Spa while third place prizes were given to the Brook Lane Hotel and the Killarney Park.

Organisers of the Killarney Goal Mile have extended their sincere thanks to the local community following an “overwhelmingly successful” event on Christmas Day.

The annual fundraiser, which took place in the Killarney House and Gardens, saw a massive turnout of walkers and runners. Goal Ireland has officially acknowledged a total of €882.50 raised in cash on the day, with a further €535 donated through the online portal, bringing the combined total for the international aid agency to over €1,400.
In a statement of appreciation, Goal Ireland noted that the generosity shown in Killarney will help transform the lives of millions of vulnerable people in 2025. The funds will provide food, shelter, and safety for refugees in Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East. Locally, the money will also support street children in Ethiopia and provide training and tools for young entrepreneurs to support their communities.
Closer to home, Kerry Cancer Support Services also expressed deep gratitude to participants for their impressive generosity. Organiser Anne Mangan highlighted the vital role of the charity’s transport service, which is a primary beneficiary of the local collection.
“The transport service is described by those using it as a travelling support group,” Ms Mangan said. “It offers not just transport to appointments, but comfort, understanding, and companionship during what can be a very difficult time for patients and their families.”
The organisers concluded by offering a “Míle Buíochas” to everyone who took time out of their Christmas morning to support these two worthy causes.