Penny McCormick investigates this new take on an Irish escape …
THE VIBE: An arboreal adventure – one of 2025’s top trends – in sophisticated cabins.
NEED TO KNOW: Jo and Frankie Whelehan, owners of The Montenotte hotel, invested €8m to develop these suites created by architects Henry J Lyons and interior designer Róisín Lafferty. Their combined vision has already garnered several international design awards since opening last August.
WHAT: Four River and five Woodland suites decorated in Japandi style – Japanese modernism meets Scandinavian minimalism. The use of natural light, a warm colour palette and layering of textures make these cocooning, comfortable and quiet.
One of the River Suites.
CHECK IN: Guests are transported by buggies for a private check-in at The Clubhouse with a glass of Gremillet champagne on arrival. This is where breakfast is served, as are sundowners and canapés. Guests also receive a cheeseboard and decanter of Jameson whiskey.
DESIGN DETAILS: Each suite has been designed to achieve near zero energy building status. My River Suite, with a living sedum roof, had travertine flooring, a sculpture of a Japanese maple tree, a TV that emerges from a bench at the foot of the kingsize bed, freestanding bath and gorgeous art and linens. Also impressive: the bathroom with Ortigia toiletries, mini kitchen with dishwasher, espresso machine, well-stocked fridge and mini bar with local produce. Interesting reading material, Cocoa Atelier chocs, lavender and a candle, as part of the turndown service, were also noteworthy.
A River Suite with views over Cork.
DO: Tear yourself away to dine at Panorama restaurant or have a Jackalope cocktail made with the hotel’s own gin in The Glasshouse where a jazz band plays at weekends.
DON’T: Miss the adults-only Cameo Cinema which has an interesting daily programme, or Bellevue Spa’s new salt room.
The Clubhouse.
VERDICT: Go hither! This experience is innovative, fun and thoughtful; a native tree is planted for each guest who stays, in a partnership with charity organisation Hometree. One night didn’t feel enough to fully absorb the design details or all that is on offer at this buzzy urban resort.
BOOK: The Woodland Suite Winter Escape package, €770 per night, which includes a hamper with a McNutt’s of Donegal wool throw and other treats as well as breakfast and access to the hotel’s facilities. www.themontenottehotel.com