Second Hotel in Ireland To Join Conrad Hotels Portfolio

BRUSSELS, Belgium–(BUSINESS WIRE)–April 1, 2002–One of Ireland's premier golf and sporting estates today became the 14th hotel to join the international luxury portfolio of Conrad hotels — the Mount Juliet(R) Conrad(R), located in southeast Ireland just 75 miles from Dublin in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny.
The management agreement signed last month between Conrad Hotels and Mount Juliet Properties, includes Conrad's management and marketing of the hotel resort and its conference facilities. The 59-room hotel resort features Mount Juliet House, the Hunter's Yard, the Rose Garden Suites, four conference rooms with 2,800 square feet of meeting space and a recently developed Mount Juliet Leisure Centre and Spa. Management and operation of Mount Juliet's golf facilities and residential developments are separate from this agreement and will remain under Mount Juliet Properties.
I am delighted that Mount Juliet selected Conrad to manage this landmark hotel, said Clement Barter, President of Conrad Hotels. The Mount Juliet Conrad has all the qualities to complement our growing worldwide portfolio of fine city and resort hotels: an ideal location, an international reputation — made through its championship golf estate's achievements — and excellent business and leisure facilities. It is an exceptional property which reinforces our presence in Ireland and around the world.
The Killeen Group acquired the Mount Juliet Estate from the McCalmont family in 1987. The Estate was then transformed into one of Europe's leading leisure destinations with the conversion of the house into a luxury hotel, the building of a Jack Nicklaus signature championship golf course and academy and the development of residential properties set discreetly through the land.
The hotel has won major awards for its hotels and restaurants, including the AA Hotel of the Year in 1999, the RAC Gold Ribbon for Excellence in 2000, the AA Rosette Awards for the Lady Helen Dining Room and Kendals Restaurant. The golf course has hosted three Irish Open Championships from 1993 to 1995, and many other prestigious competitions. The WGC American Express Championship 2002 in September will also welcome the world's best golfers.
This is a tremendous boost for all of us at Mount Juliet, said Dr. Tim Mahony, Chairman of Mount Juliet. Our aspirations have always been based on the highest international standards, while maintaining a very distinctive Irish personality. We are happy that Mount Juliet is now established as a significant luxury destination within Irish tourism. Personally, I believe this agreement will not only have significant advantages for us in Mount Juliet but indeed for Ireland as a top quality tourist destination.
The accommodations at the Mount Juliet Conrad are luxurious and diverse. Guests may choose between the classical Georgian elegance of Mount Juliet House, the informal sporting atmosphere of the Hunters Yard and Club Rooms or the spacious Rose Garden Suites which are ideal for longer stays and families.
The culinary experience is memorable. Renowned chefs offer international and creative cuisine in the Lady Helen Dining Room, with panoramic views over the River Nore, or at the Kendals Restaurant in the Hunters Yard. Traditional and sophisticated Irish bars are also favoured by guests throughout the estate.
The 1,500-acre estate offers hotel guests the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of recreational activities. Horseback riding, golf, clay shooting and archery, rod and line fishing, shooting in woodland, tennis, cycling, and croquet are some of the outdoor leisure options available to the business and leisure guests.
The Mount Juliet Leisure Centre features a sauna, a steam room, a 17-meter indoor heated swimming pool with whirlpool and waterfall, a fully equipped gym and a wide range of classes available including aqua aerobics, step, aerobics, swimming classes (private and group). Also available at the Leisure Centre is a newly renovated Spa facility with relaxation, health and beauty treatments.
Mount Juliet is part of one of the world's most prestigious championship golf estates, hosting many international competitions on its Jack Nicklaus designed golf course, including the WGC American Express Championship, scheduled to take place in September 2002. Its Golf Academy attracts golfers of all levels.

ABOUT CONRAD HOTELS

Conrad Hotels represents the luxury portfolio of the Hilton Family of Hotels. Established in 1985, Conrad Hotels has earned a reputation for exceptional style and personalized service among the world's most demanding business and leisure travelers. There are presently 14 Conrad hotels operating in major gateway cities and exotic resort destinations across Asia, Australia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America.
Conrad Hotels is expanding and continues to explore opportunities to further enhance the brand's presence in the luxury hotel segment in suitable locations around the world. New Conrad hotels will open in Bangkok and Bali during the next few years.