Fed up with the weather, time for a break? Book an overnight stay at one of these luxury hotels for a change of scene and mindset …
Dromoland Castle, Co Clare
Beautiful gardens, gorgeous rooms and a fabulous boutique: Dromoland Castle, Co Clare, has done much to keep the altruistic spirit of previous owner Lady Charlotte, the wife of the 4th Baronet Edward O’Brien, alive and also remind guests of the Castle’s connection to beautiful textiles which began 100 years ago. Lady Charlotte set up an embroidery school in Newmarket-on-Fergus and its speciality was whitework, a type of satin stitch using white thread on white fabric. If visiting the hotel, pop into Charlotte & Co, its boutique, where some of the best contemporary Irish designer brands are found including Colin Burke, Deborah Veale, Faye Dinsmore and Debbie Millington. Its latest offering is a chic collaboration with Tidings on a new range of limited edition silk scarves which incorporates many of Dromoland’s attractions from the Lady Ethel Rose Garden to its range of guest activities including falconry and hot air ballooning. An overnight stay, from €700 per room, allows guests to be as active or as lazy as they wish. www.dromoland.ie
The Dylan, Dublin 4
This discreet boutique hotel in Ballsbridge is a firm favourite with locals who love its new Pommery Champagne terrace, decorated in Pommery Champagne colours with a tempting menu of gourmet delights (I recommend the Roaring Water Bay mussels and frites). There’s a current Stay the Weekend offer, which includes a cocktail upon arrival and also breakfast in the pretty Eddison Restaurant (or in your room). This allows guests to admire the recent bedroom renovations by Gráinne Weber of Gráinne Weber Architects, where comfort and creativity are to the fore. Some rooms are pet friendly too. From €350 per room (two sharing). www.dylan.ie
Gregan’s Castle, Co Clare
This luxurious eco and gourmet retreat is perfectly poised for guests to visit the Burren and west coast. No wonder former guests have included authors and writers such as JRR Tolkien, Seamus Heaney and Sean Scully, who have all been inspired by the scenery and cosseted by the hospitality. The family-owned hotel, in a stunning 18th-century manor house, is surrounded by gorgeous gardens and views over Galway Bay. Pack a paperback to read on the deckchairs. Book an overnight stay, €270 per room per night, and enjoy the ambiance (antiques, art and pretty garden flowers) as well as stellar service and food. www.irelands-blue-book.ie
Marlfield House, Co Wexford
One of my favourite bolt holes is Marlfield House, where a short break always leaves me feeling totally relaxed and very well fed. A current midweek and Sunday overnight offer includes a three-course dinner in the buzzy Duck restaurant for €169. That’s very good value – each room overlooks the gardens which include a croquet lawn, tennis court, woodland walks, a lake, as well as a rose and kitchen garden. Breakfast in the Conservatory Restaurant is a further highlight as is a pre-dinner cocktail in the gorgeous lounge. www.irelands-blue-book.ie
Grand Central Hotel, Belfast
Located in the Linen Quarter, Grand Central is in prime position for visitors who want to combine some culture and shopping. After exploring the city, draw a luxurious bath and bring the outside in by staying in one of the Grand Central’s six suites that offer a freestanding bath beside a floor-to-ceiling window. They frame the iconic Cave Hill and its “sleeping giant”, providing a unique perspective on Belfast’s natural landmarks. These baths in the Deluxe Sky View Rooms and need to be specifically requested and cost from £280 (approx. €332) for two adults with breakfast. www.grandcentralhotelbelfast.com
Townhouse on the Green, Dublin 4
One of the newest hotel’s in Dublin features plush rooms designed by Albert Noonan of Noonan Moran Architecture & Interior Design, who was directly inspired by the hotel’s location just opposite St Stephen’s Green. Each room is full of character, catnip for decoristas looking for inspiration. An overnight stay with breakfast for two adults starts from €259. To celebrate the opening of Townhouse on the Green, guests staying until August 31 will receive a complimentary glass of the sommelier’s favourite wine from 5pm – 6pm each day in Cellar 22, where breakfast is also served. A further incentive – Floritz restaurant is on site too and is arguably one of the hottest tables in town. Do book a table and enjoy its fabulous menu and flamboyant floral decor. www.townhouseonthegreen.ie
Ballyfin, Co Laois
Recently recognised as the best resort in Ireland & the UK 2024 by Travel & Leisure Magazine, Ballyfin has been wowing guests since it opened in 2011. Much of its success has to do with its impeccable setting, superior service and gorgeous rooms, which include beautiful bathrooms. For instance, The Knight Room is to the front of the house and overlooks the lake – a charming suit of armour in miniature gives this room its name. It’s decorated in various shades of green with panelling details. In the bathroom, draw a bath and enjoy using the hotel’s exclusive Pevonia amenities and beautifully scented handmade soaps from Sally Miller collection based in West Cork. An overnight stay with breakfast is €1,210. www.ballyfin.com