New openings, offers, awards and exhibitions …
Ómós, Abbeyleix, Laois
One of the most exciting new openings this summer is Ómós, a 16-room guesthouse and restaurant led by chef and writer Cúán Greene. The son of artists Róisín de Buitléar and Terry Greene, Ómós has been shaped by Greene’s creative background, as well as his experience spent in the the kitchens of Noma and Geranium, and as head chef at Bastible in Dublin. Guestrooms, from €395 midweek, were designed by Ryan W Kennihan Architects with Asca Studio and Relief Gallery, each with its own character, Irish bed linen, ceramics and Ómós bodycare. As for food, fermentation, foraging and seasonal ingredients run throughout the menu. Dinner is €175 per person and lunch €150 per person. Find an exclusive interview in THE GLOSS June issue out now. @___omos
Castlemartyr Resort, Cork
Art + Soul exhibition has opened at Castlemartyr Resort, where visitors can view more than 100 sculptures on the grounds, in addition to artworks displayed throughout the hotel until June 28. Pop in for afternoon tea or, if searching for a posh pet-friendly stay, check out the hotel’s newly refreshed Orchard and Gate House residences that provide a sophisticated home-from-home experience, complete with private outdoor areas and barbecue facilities. Guests have complimentary access to the Spa, an 18-hole golf course and driving range, tennis courts, walking and cycling trails, and activities such as archery and clay shooting. There’s a Kid’s Club programme too, plus babysitting can be arranged in advance, allowing adults to enjoy dining in one of the restaurants, from Canopy Brasserie & Bar to the Michelin-starred Terre. @castlemartyrresort
Kelly’s Resort Hotel & Spa, Wexford
For many, a quintessential part of any summer holiday is a visit to Kelly’s Resort. Did you know that families and multigenerational groups can stay in separate accommodation? Leinster Lodge and the new seaside Beach House offer a private escape steps from the hotel. The latter sleeps up to 11 guests, with two sitting rooms and panoramic views, plus a private patio and direct access to Rosslare Beach. Guests can choose between a self-catering stay or half board package. @kellysresort
The Hardiman Hotel, Galway City
A highlight of Galway’s Race Week is the Best Dressed at Brunch at The Hardiman Hotel on July 29 that brings together fashion lovers and racegoers for an afternoon of style, entertainment and prizes. Judges this year include Harper Boutique owner Martina O’Donovan, stylist Rebecca Rose and Emily-Jean, founder of Emily Jean Atelier, an award-winning milliner, accessories designer and personal stylist. @thehardimangalway
The Great Southern Hotel Killarney, Kerry
The Great Southern Hotel Killarney has secured a coveted five-star rating and launched a “Splendour, Untamed” package to celebrate its newly restored interiors and Arbour brasserie. Guest experiences on offer include wellness activities or guided foraging tours and photography walks through Killarney National Park. This marks the next chapter for the new-look hotel at the heart of Killarney for over 170 years. Overnight stays start from €375. @thegreatsouthernkillarney
Ballyfin Demesne, Laois
Five Irish hotels have been honoured in the inaugural Condé Nast Traveler Triple Crown awards that recognise achievements across all three of CNT’s most prestigious accolades: the Hot List, Gold List and Readers’ Choice. Regency gem Ballyfin Demesne has won numerous awards over the years, with MD Seamus Crotty saying; “This accolade reflects the commitment to excellence that defines the Ballyfin experience, and we are deeply grateful to our guests and industry peers for their continued support.” For an immersive break, A Taste of Ballyfin Demesne guarantees a memorable stay in one of its Classic rooms as well as lots of treats, from champagne on arrival to a history tour and Michelin-star dining experience in the State Dining Room. Guests can also meet current artist-in-residence Sasha Sykes. Don’t miss a carriage ride around the grounds with Lionel Chadwick. @ballyfindemesne
The Merrion Hotel, Dublin
The Merrion has also been recognised for its exceptional service, design and guest experience. Currently on offer is a two-night stay in the Garden Wing, from €595, which includes breakfast or in-room dining and access to its famous Heath Club & Spa, complimentary use of the posh hotel bicycles and an audio tour of the hotel’s impressive art collection. @merrionhotel
Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa, Wicklow
Powerscourt also got the nod, and has always been known for its gorgeous setting and level of comfort. Try the Summer Soirée mid-week stay, from June 21, which includes breakfast in SIKA restaurant overlooking Sugar Loaf Mountain, €50 dining credit for SIKA or The Sally Gap Bar & Brasserie, access to the Swarovski crystal-lit swimming pool and use of the hotel bicycles to explore the east. @powerscourthotel
Cashel Palace Hotel, Tipperary
Cashel Palace Hotel was another worthy award winner. Its spa got a mention for its al fresco seaweed baths on a discreet perch overlooking The Rock and garden suites – a supremely therapeutic way to enjoy the hotel’s gardens. Book the Rest & Revive Spa Sojourn, a one-night retreat that includes access to the impressive facilities within the spa and a choice of treatment (hot stone massage, Bamford facial or luxurious body scrub) before dinner in the Michelin-starred Bishop’s Buttery. @cashelpalace
Adare Manor, Limerick
Completing the Irish contingent is Adare Manor, renowned for its Michelin-starred Oak Room restaurant, immaculate grounds and world-class golf facilities, which is preparing to host the 2027 Ryder Cup. Another collaboration worth noting is Jack Murphy‘s new collection of bespoke blazers with wools created by Donegal Yarns that reflect the colours of the estate. Molloy & Sons took Irish wool yarns, blended it with Merino wool for superior fabric drape and created the tweeds used in the special collection designed by Jack Murphy’s son, Michael. @theadaremanor
The Fitzwilliam, Dublin & The Grace, Westport
As part of a global trend moving away from less corporate hospitality looks, French designer Cordelia de Castellane has reinvented staff uniforms across Sofitel hotels, which is part of Accor group, defined by Parisian cuts and accessories. Designer Deborah Veale looked to the Art Deco movement as inspiration for her sartorial redesign of uniforms at The Fitzwilliam, while Grace Kelly’s style and tailoring inspired The Grace, Westport Estate in Mayo. @thefitzwilliamdublin
Wineport Lodge, Athlone
Finally, Wineport Lodge’s Lakeview Suites have always been serene, in-the-know retreats, but now they’ve been reimagined to create an even more immersive experience where guests feel surrounded by nature. More spacious, the interior design details include neutral tones, natural textures and subtle accents that reflect the colours of Lough Ree. Plush king size beds and sleek new bathrooms, with heated flooring and ambient lighting, add to the sense of luxury. The new hot tubs on the balcony have been thoughtfully positioned to ensure privacy and allow guests to have their own spa ritual. Imagine sinking into bubbling water sipping morning coffee surrounded by mist rising off the lake, or watching the sunset behind the islands with a glass of something special from Wineport’s wine cellar?
