Maria Vaughan and Martina Greene accept the award for Vaughan Lodge.
VAUGHAN LODGE Hotel in Lahinch scooped a two in a row when it was once again recognised for its hospitality to golfers while Mark Nolan was also honoured for his contribution to the industry.
At the 28th Annual Ireland Golf Tour Operation Association (ITGOA) Conference and Gala Awards, Vaughan Lodge won Boutique Property of the Year for the second year running.
Co-founder Maria Vaughan and long-term staff member Martina Greene accepted the accolade at the K Club in Kildare on Monday night.
Tour operators, golf clubs, resorts, hotels and transport providers all convened on The K Club for the two-day event.
Themed ‘Staying On Course’, the conference addressed the challenges and opportunities ahead for the industry. Economist Jim Power delivered a keynote on the wider economic landscape and its implications for tourism, while AI and digital transformation expert Ciaran Connolly provided real-world demonstrations of how emerging technologies can drive growth and innovation in golf tourism businesses.
Michael Vaughan, co-owner of Vaughan Lodge said they were thrilled to be recognised for the second year in succession. “Thanks in no small part to the wonderful team members at Vaughan Lodge Hotel and the wonderful guests that provide the majority of our business each year from the Ireland Golf Tour Operator Association (IGTOA) members”.
He said, “we are honoured by this unprecedented accolade. We strive to continue to provide a great service to all your members and guests”.
Mark Nolan’s contribution to the industry was also recognised when he was presented with the Jerry Donworth Outstanding Contribution to Golf award.
After thirty five years as Managing Director and General Manager of Dromoland Castle Resort in, Mark stood down in February 2025. He remains a Board Member, Investor/Shareholder and Consultant with the five star resort in Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Since his exit from Dromoland, Mark has been appointed President of Shannon Chamber. He has also set up a new company Hallmark Hospitality that offers expertise to the luxury hospitality industry.
