Mount Congreve Gardens and Country Estate in County Waterford has earned a place in Ireland’s Blue Book for 2027, marking a significant endorsement of its distinctive accommodation offering and its growing reputation as one of Ireland’s most compelling destinations for a luxury escape.

Membership of Ireland’s Blue Book is not automatic, with properties required to meet rigorous selection criteria. Mount Congreve’s inclusion recognises the quality and character of its overnight experiences, which range from beautifully restored historic gate lodges to secluded forest cabins with private hot tubs, all set within one of the world’s great gardens.

The achievement adds to a series of accolades for the Waterford estate, which was named Visitor Attraction of the Year at the 2023 Georgina Campbell Awards and received an International Garden Tourism Award that year. It was subsequently included in Condé Nast Traveller’s Best Places to Go in the UK and Ireland for 2024, while Waterford featured in The New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2024. Further recognition includes Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award 2026, inclusion in McKenna’s Guides, a place on the Sunday Times’ 100 Great Places to Stay in 2024, and recognition as one of Ireland’s best places to stay by the Irish Independent’s Fab 50 in 2024.

Dating from 1760, Mount Congreve is internationally renowned for its extraordinary horticultural collection. Its 70 acres of woodland gardens, four acres of walled gardens and approximately 16 kilometres of pathways provide a remarkable setting for an overnight stay, with guests enjoying complimentary admission and private access to the gardens.

From historic gate lodges and contemporary woodland cabins to a unique stay within the estate’s former ancestral home, Mount Congreve offers a variety of experiences for couples, families and those travelling with their four-legged companions. The Rowan Gate Lodge, which is the dedicated dog-friendly accommodation, allows guests to bring their dogs along to enjoy a break in the countryside, while the estate’s secluded setting offers a welcome opportunity to slow down and reconnect with nature.

The accommodation offers several distinct ways to experience the estate. Oak and Acorn Gate Lodges provide intimate retreats, while Damson Gate Lodge offers two bedrooms, antique furnishings and a private garden. Rowan Gate Lodge welcomes guests travelling with dogs, while Whitfield Gate Lodge adds another distinctive option for those seeking a characterful stay on an adjacent estate. The Courtyard Suite, located in the West Wing of Mount Congreve House, the former ancestral home of Ambrose Congreve, combines historic character with contemporary comfort.

For those drawn to nature, the forest eco cabins offer a contemporary woodland escape, with handcrafted interiors and private outdoor hot tubs. Couples’ cabins accommodate two, while family cabins provide space for two adults and two children. During the summer months, off-grid bell tents in the meadow offer a simpler, closer-to-nature experience.

The estate’s appeal extends beyond its accommodation. The Stables Café celebrates seasonal food and local produce, while afternoon tea in the restored Tack Room offers an opportunity to linger. The Waterford Greenway runs alongside the estate, making Mount Congreve an appealing base for walking, cycling and exploring Ireland’s Ancient East. Guests booking through Ireland’s Blue Book can also enjoy a 10% discount at FOXFORD, adding another special touch to their Mount Congreve escape.

Sara Dolan, CEO of Mount Congreve Gardens, said: “Earning a place in Ireland’s Blue Book for 2027 is a significant milestone for Mount Congreve. The Blue Book represents a carefully selected collection of distinctive places to stay, and this recognition reflects the quality and character of the experience we have developed here.

“Our accommodation allows guests to experience Mount Congreve in a different way, with time to explore the gardens beyond a day visit, enjoy the tranquillity of the estate and discover the many reasons to stay a little longer in Waterford.”

For accommodation details and bookings, visit www.mountcongreve.com.