In a beautiful city blessed with a host of glorious hotels, The Merrion certainly outshines them all. With its ornate grandeur, colourful history and excellent service, this elegant 5 star hotel is the perfect setting for an idyllic city break. Situated in the heart of Ireland's capital, opposite Government Buildings and just a few steps away from Merrion Square, the National Gallery and National Museum as well as the Grafton Street shopping district, we were spoilt for options.
The Merrion exudes a grand and timeless feel
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The building was original erected in the 1760s, and over the years it has attracted the wealthy Irish merchants and nobility. From the minute we checked in, we were mesmerised with the incredible beauty of the place, right from the high ceilings and tall pillars to the extra-wide corridors and the stunning art collection, the hotel exuded a grand and timeless feel. There were plenty of open and casual space offerings which would be perfect for impromptu meetings and quick catch-ups with friends. Food wise, it was hard to pick! Guests can enjoy lunch or afternoon tea during in the hotel’s landscaped gardens (but only during the summer period) and dine all year round in Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, Ireland's only two-Michelin-starred restaurant, The Merrion Drawing Rooms or under the vaulted ceilings of The Cellar Restaurant & Bar, an intimate bar which is popular amongst locals.
Suites are beautifully furnished and spacious
Rooms are beautifully furnished and spacious as well - our Junior Suite, based in the original Georgian Main House, boasted impressive views of Government Buildings. But it was the delicate rococo plasterwork ceilings and the magnificent fireplace which really stood out, and made us feel like we had ditched normality for a taste of royalty. Remaining true to its roots, the room featured gorgeous Georgian architecture as well as Georgian-inspired fabrics on the walls. The interior decor was nothing short of elegant and fitted perfectly with the European period style of the 19th century. The suite featured a spacious walk-in closet, a comfortable king-size bed, and a gorgeous Italian Carrara marble bathroom with all the modern-day comforts close to hand. What more could you want?
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If you're looking for 'a luxury escape with a touch of class and culture' when you're travelling to Dublin, you certainly can't go wrong with The Merrion. With easy access to all that the city has to offer, there's simply no arguing that you're in the best place to be. It has also been announced that in October, the hotel will be opening a brand new restaurant, The Garden Room. It will be placed in the private gardens in a specially designed new building with doors opening out onto a terrace for al fresco dining. The restaurant will also be followed by a major new city spa, set to open in early 2018 - these two exciting developments timed to celebrate The Merrion's 21st birthday in October 2018! For details and reservations at The Merrion, click here.