Milestone celebrations, new openings and gorgeous renovations …
Armada House, Co Clare
Armada House has reopened after a three-year transformation by interior designer Suzie McAdam. The 13-bedroom property, adjacent to the Armada Hotel, has had an interesting history, formerly a landlord’s home and convent boarding school. Now it has been transformed with interiors inspired by colours of the distinctive flora of The Burren and hues of the Atlantic Ocean to create a calm aesthetic. “Bold Luxury” is the hospitality concept says John Burke, chief executive of Armada. Guests have much to admire, from hand-painted murals by Michael Dillon, wallpapers by Pierre Frey, bespoke furniture created with John O’Connell Furniture, and artworks from Irish artists such as Mick O’Dea, Geraldine O’Sullivan, Rosie Lynch and Katherine Halford Greene. The vibe is cosmopolitan but also rooted in Ireland – bedlinen is by Inish Living, with chocolates from Grá Chocolates and welcome drinks by Armada Cocktail Lab. Music is central to the guest experience: acclaimed artist Susan O’Neill has created the playlists and there are regular live performances at the neighbouring hotel. Guests can also enjoy a programme of complimentary experiences including wine tastings, Irish coffee making, cookery demonstrations, yoga sessions, guided shore walks and sauna experiences. To celebrate this new opening, overnight rates start from €450 per night, based on two adults sharing a seaview suite which includes breakfast and Perrier-Jouët champagne. @armadaspanishpoint
Haddington House Hotel, Dublin
One of my favourite spots in Dún Laoghaire is Haddington House Hotel, overlooking Dublin Bay. Dating from the mid-1800s, the seafront building has been a part of the social and architectural fabric of the town. It has undergone a thoughtful renovation and restoration over several years which focused on creating space. The hotel has reduced 55 to 40 rooms, allowing for larger bedrooms and bathrooms and more comfort. The interior design blends charm and character, inspired by the town’s maritime heritage, 1800’s elegance and coastal setting. Irish craftsmanship is very much to the fore with cabinetry crafted by Irish joiners RHD, curtains made by Dublin-based maker Brian Nolan and upholstery by Derrys. Handmade lampshades and ceiling pendants add warmth and individuality, while in-room details include leather created by Milan-based Mark Inglis. Pop into this coastal grande dame for lunch or dinner in Oliveto and the Parlour rooms. Rooms cost from €165. @haddingtonhousehotel
CABÜ Cabins, Co Cavan
The forest retreat CABÜ by the Lakes, Co Cavan is expanding with 15 new design-led cabins, available to book for stays from the end of March. Set within Killykeen Forest Park, the new accommodation blends CABÜ’s signature architecture, natural materials and slow-living ethos. In addition, there are three new accommodation choices. The open-plan one- and two-bedroom Woodland Cabins are ideal for couples, solo travellers or small families and feature impressive kitchens, floor-to-ceiling windows and a private terrace. The three-bedroom Barnhouse is the standout of the expansion, sleeping up to six guests across two floors. It has a light-filled open-plan living space with log burner, a private balcony and outdoor hot tub perfect for parties. All cabins have access to fabulous on-site amenities. The Sitooterie and Cabin Club Bar are ideal for drinks and snacks while the Nature Spa offers treatments, saunas and outdoor Japanese baths. There’s also a private lake jetty and plenty of forest trails to explore. Prices start from €550 for a two-night stay in a one-bedroom Woodland Cabin. @cabucabins
The Dean Berlin, Charlottenberg
The Dean Berlin has just opened in the arty district of Charlottenburg, marking the brand’s first international property outside Ireland. Its design, by Rachael Gowdridge, balances rawness and refinement – interiors include original architectural details, colour drenched rooms, sculptural lighting and avant garde aesthetics – a reflection of Berlin’s artistic edge. Independent art curator Thom Oosterhof has selected work by emerging and established German-based artists featured throughout the hotel. These include pieces from contemporary painters Xia Peng, Wolfgang Guenther Ricky Lee Gordon, Erika Richter and Wiebke Maria Wachmann. The launch of The Dean Berlin is part of the brand’s global expansion; look out for openings in Munich and Miami. If in Berlin, don’t miss “Many Shades of Grès” exhibition at the Museum of Decorative Arts where Madame Grès’ pleated gowns were inspired by ancient sculptures. Another must-do is a visit to the Sunday flea market at Mauerpark. @thedean
Grand Hotel Malahide, Dublin
The family-owned Grand Hotel Malahide has been a part of this coastal community for over 190 years. It was acquired by FBD Hotels & Resorts (for a cool €55m) and since then has undergone an extensive renovation programme. Pop in to have a look – the ground floor and restaurant have had an upgrade that reflects the vintage glamour of past, balanced with contemporary style notes. There are also great views from the restaurant. @grandmalahide
Killarney Royal Townhouse, Co Kerry
The very central Killarney Royal Townhouse, Co Kerry has just been refurbished and now offers a characterful escape that combines heritage with contemporary design. Food is central to its boutique hotel experience, with the recently launched Fig Restaurant serving informal, seasonal dishes that celebrate local produce. It’s a practical base if planning to visit the wellness-focused Wander Wild Festival in April. Overnight rates start from €285. @killarneyroyaltownhouse
Club House Hotel Kilkenny
This family-owned Georgian boutique hotel has welcomed guests since 1797. It recently completely an extensive renovation project which blends contemporary elements with charming original features including stunning arches, fireplaces, large sash windows, stained glass, ornate architraves and cornices. Guestrooms feature floral headboards, and layers of textured linen and cushions. To celebrate its refurbishment, there is a new a two-night getaway which includes dinner for two on one evening, plus a chance to explore attractions such as Rothe House, Kilkenny Castle and St Canice’s Cathedral. One of the most popular insider tours is Nevin Cody’s Medieval Moments which delves into the town’s medieval witch trials and local legends. @clubhousehotelkilkenny
The Carlton Hotel, Dublin Airport
The Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport is celebrating its 20-year anniversary with the launch of The Platinum Chapter Escape. Designed to enhance the pre- and post-travel experience, this allows guests to unwind, prepare for their journey or recharge on return. The package, from €565, celebrates what the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport is best known for: reliability and a seamless guest experience. It includes a rooftop balcony suite, champagne on arrival, dinner and cocktails in the Runway 28 restaurant, plus breakfast and thoughtful amenities from sleep masks to Rituals wellbeing sets. Of course, guests have use of a convenient direct shuttle transfer to Dublin Airport where they can enjoy lounge access. @carltondublinairport
Ómós, Co Laois
Ómós, near Abbeyleix, Co Laois, is a new 16-bedroom guesthouse and restaurant led by chef and writer Cúán Greene. “The name Ómós – meaning homage, duty, and respect reflects our intention behind the project,” says Cúán. “That aim is to create something lasting and meaningful, something with soul. A guesthouse and restaurant that reflect our neighbourhood and our community, and that generously welcome curiosity and discovery.” Key people across kitchen, service and operations roles are already in place to welcome guests from July, including Patrick Healy as General Manager, Matthew Smith as Head Chef and Sarah Kennelly as Restaurant Manager. Reservations for both stays and dining are now open online. @___omos
The Hawthorn Hotel, Co Galway
Look out for the opening in May of The Hawthorn, a five-star luxury hotel just outside Galway City, near Oranmore. Having just returned from a tour of the premises, it’s set to be a stunning addition to the hospitality scene in Galway. Featuring 114 guest rooms, a signature restaurant(overseen by chef Cedric Bottarlini, spa, championship golf course and bar overlooking Galway Bay, expect exceptional attention to detail.
The hotel is the realisation of a long-held vision first imagined by Ryder Cup legend Christy O’Connor Jnr. He designed the original Galway Bay Golf Course in 1993, foreseeing the site as a global destination. Thirty years later, Connacht Hospitality Group is bringing his dream to life; enhancing and elevating the championship course and clubhouse, and in the process rewilding 22 acres to encourage biodiversity and the return of the native skylark.
It won’t just appeal to golfers, but also gourmet travellers and spa devotees. The exclusive collaborations with Tata Harper and Japanese chef Takashi Miyazaki are very exciting as its very stylish country club vibe. @thehawthorn_hotel
We may earn a commission if you buy through affiliate links on our site.
