The hotel employs 100 people on the quayside at Deganwy

The general manager of the Quay Hotel and Spa at Deganwy, Tony Riley, described the win as "nothing short of miraculous".

Mr Riley paid tribute to his 100 staff for the effort they have put in since the �20m hotel opened.

Winners of the AA Hospitality Awards are nominated by inspectors who visit establishments as "mystery guests".

"This is one of the proudest moments of my 22-year career in the hotel industry," added Mr Riley.

"To achieve what we have achieved in just over 12 months is nothing short of miraculous."

OTHER AA WELSH AWARDS Restaurant of the year - Carlton Riverside, Llanwrtyd Wells Guest accommodation of the year - Ty Mawr Mansion, Aberaeron Pub of the year - Glasfryn, Mold Wine award - The Bell, Skenfrith

Mr Riley, received the award at a ceremony in London on Monday, said setting up the new hotel had taken "a lot of hard work".

"The team gelled really well from the start and they have worked hard to get the hotel up to a five-star standard," he added.

The Quay has already achieved double five-star rating, with official accreditation from the AA and Visit Wales.

Two of the hotel's chefs are members of the Welsh National Culinary Team.

Winners are selected in recognition of their "excellence and success" within their chosen market.