Rejuvenating breaks for an Irish summer …
Sophie’s, The Dean Hotel, Dublin
Sophie’s has always been one of the capital’s most popular rooftop dining destinations – it’s also a longtime favourite of designer Orla Kiely. It’s just reopened with a new look and menu (head chef Marcin Kolnierzak says that his favourite dish is the mortadella pizza). Designed by interiors studio O’Donnell O’Neill, a striking bar, open kitchen, vintage furniture, gallery walls and floor-to-ceiling windows channel buzzy downtown Manhattan, in addition to serving up great views across the city. Sophie’s glow-up is part of a wider refresh of The Dean Dublin Centre (that’s had a subtle name change) where there are new guest rooms within No 35 Harcourt Street, a restored Georgian building adjoining the original hotel and its townhouse extension. A warm palette, burr wood furniture, leather headboards and terrazzo-tiled bathrooms create a contemporary feel. The same design thread runs throughout the renovated existing rooms, giving the entire hotel a fresh yet familiar character. Expect more upgrades across the property throughout the summer, culminating in a new restaurant later this year. Also on the horizon: the opening of The Dean Munich next month! @sophiesrooftop
Head Gardener’s House, Fota House, Cork
The Irish Landmark Trust and Irish Heritage Trust have partnered to bring the bucolic 1862 Head Gardener’s House at Fota House back to life as a self-catering heritage stay. Fota House was originally built c 1760 as a hunting lodge before being transformed in the early 19th-century into the principal residence of the Smith-Barry family. The Head Gardener’s House sits within Fota’s historic walled garden. The restoration is an example of sustainable heritage conservation, featuring a careful fit-out that includes ultra-low VOC Graphenstone eco-paints made from natural lime and graphene. The interiors were completed under the direction of interior designer Jessie Wilkinson, who balanced the character and individuality of the property with the distinctive experience associated with their portfolio. Guests are welcomed by house manager and local resident Jacqui Boyle, who’s on hand to share her extensive knowledge of the surrounding area. Stays start from €458 for two nights. @fotahouseandgardens
Culloden Estate & Spa, Antrim
Culloden Estate & Spa is marking 150 years since the property was first built as the official palace of the Bishops of Down with a significant refurbishment across its spa, guest rooms and private dining room, the Ailsa Suite, with views over Belfast Lough. Interior designer Amanda Ramsey of Interiors & Floor Design in Belfast worked with local suppliers to create the fresh vibe. “We deliberately moved away from overly neutral interiors, and instead chose carefully layered palettes, bringing warmth and character to the rooms.” The anniversary celebrations continue throughout the summer, including the return of the hotel’s Bollinger Champagne Garden. Overnight rates are from €266 for two people, which includes a complimentary room upgrade (subject to availability), as well as access to the spa and daily classes including yoga, spin, Pilates and Zumba. @cullodenestate
The Montenotte, Cork
The Montenotte has always been known for its design-led interiors and, as part of its evolution, has just unveiled newly developed Signature Collection rooms following a €2 million investment. Created by GDC Interiors, the rooms are refined and understated with bespoke furnishings and ambient lighting, complemented by spacious bathrooms. Owner Frankie Whelehan explains, “We wanted to build on what people already love about The Montenotte where design, atmosphere and experience come together in a way that feels natural rather than overstated.” Signature Collection rooms start from €325, including breakfast. @montenottehotel
Ashford Castle, Mayo
Wimbledon starts soon, during which Ashford Castle‘s Paula Stakelum is partnering with Champagne Lanson to create a tennis-inspired menu featuring haute patisserie treats filled with strawberries and cream. The pièce de resistance is the Paula Pastry Chocolate Sphere crafted from Valrhona chocolate. Pick up Paula’s choccies from Mrs Tea’s excellent gift shop. @ashfordcastle
Avalon House Hotel, Kilkenny
As demand grows for restorative breaks, the newly restored boutique Avalon House Hotel has unveiled its Summer Sanctuary Stays centred around nature, wellness and walks. Originally a grand historic property, the hotel is surrounded by the Castlecomer estate, and the area is renowned for its mature forests, heritage trails and unspoiled countryside. This special offer for two, including dinner on one evening and breakfast each morning, along with a Nordic-inspired La Rive Sauna experience each, costs €189. @avalonhousehotel
Nuremore Estate, Monaghan
Monaghan’s free pop-up summer music festival Scenic Sessions begins in July and runs through August with events in scenic locations, from the beautiful Tin Church in Laragh village to Rossmore Forest Park. Stay at the recently refurbished Nuremore Estate that’s been taken over by the McGettigan family. If visiting, check out the new online series Monaghan Masterclasses (@monaghantourism and on Facebook) where local artisans share tips to master a skill, from plein air painting to poetry writing, horse-riding and fermenting vegetables. The idea is that when you’re in the county, the emphasis is on slowing down and enjoying an authentic experience. @nuremoreestate
