The Dean, Cork

Cork Craft month is well underway, while Design Pop Festival celebrating architecture, design and Irish food producers runs from August 27 – 29. Where to stay? The colourful and creative Dean Cork which has 113 rooms and a penthouse suite, as well as Sophie’s Rooftop restaurant. Above reception you’ll find a bespoke design created by Irish artist Domino Whisker – perfect for an Insta post. As for the spacious bedrooms, they include fully stocked Smeg fridges, Netflix- enabled smart TVs, an Irish Munchie Box filled with goodies, Marshal Amps, record players and vinyls, luxury toiletries and much more. Stays are from €150 per person for a one-night package, which includes bubbly on arrival, a three-course dinner in Sophie’s Rooftop with house wine, and breakfast the next morning. There’s also a midweek offer with early check-in (from 10am) and late checkout until 5pm the next day, €130; www.thedean.ie.

The Wicklow Escape, Donard, Co Wicklow

For a fabulous “foodcation” this is a new venture by founder Lisa Wilkinson and executive chef Danni Barry who have curated two night, three day packages – you’ll need to pack your buffet dresses such is the range of gourmet delights on offer. The Wicklow Escape is all about rustic luxury set against  backdrop of the Wicklow mountains and landscaped grounds. On-site facilities include seven deluxe bedrooms, two restaurants, an outdoor terrace and a woodfired outdoor hot tub. As for the food: each package include cocktails and nibbles, a three-course dinner at The Fiery; lunch or picnic to take on a walk or hike, as well as a five course dinner menu with wine pairings. Between meals there are plenty of walking trails and hikes up the West Wicklow Sugar Loaf mountain – perfect for burning calories and working up an appetite. On the final day, there is a leisurely brunch offered before checkout. This fully inclusive break is from €543 per person sharing; www.thewicklowescape.com.

The Lansdowne, Kenmare, Co Kerry

One of the most recent hotel openings this summer was The Lansdowne in Kenmare. Technically this heritage property, dating back to 1790, is not new but was bought by hoteliers John and Francis Brennan, who have been restoring and updating the interiors. Attention to detail is the Brennan forte – from the denim and navy jackets of the staff to the Walker Roberts bluetooth speakers found in the bedrooms. The Lansdowne comprises 28 stylish rooms, with bedlinen from Francis Brennan the Collection for Dunnes Stores and The Handmade Soap Company toiletries. Guests and non residents can enjoy the hotel’s LK Café, open from 8am daily, while other facilities include a dining bar and terrace, open from 5pm. Current rates are €225 for room only. From October 1 the rate is €205 and guests who stay on two consecutive nights will receive a third night free; www.lansdownkenmare.com.

The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat, Co Antrim

One of the most exciting new hotel openings is The Rabbit, only 20 minutes from Belfast, the latest venture by Galgorm Collection, owners of the renowned Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort in Ballymena. This new 33-bedroom boutique hotel offers stylish accommodation with four room types (Snug, Attic, Comfy or Luxe). The outdoor spa area offers Roman baths and hot tubs, Swedish saunas, an aromatherapy steam room and halotherapy salt chamber as well as a collection of hot tubs. There’s also a lakeside beach complete with heated sand, a Lake Bar, sunken lounge and chic cabanas. Why not try the “Hop To It” package, featuring access to the hotel’s “Relaxation Burrow” and a bottle of bubbles to kick off your stay from just £180 per night. Or go for the full package and avail of The Rabbit’s Dinner, Bed & Breakfast deal, with experiences starting from £240 per night; www.rabbithotel.com.

Shoreline Hotel, Co Dublin

Looking to recharge with some bracing beach walks? The Shoreline Hotel is nestled on the peninsula of Donabate on a five kilometre sandy beach overlooking the Irish Sea and Lambay Island. Currently offering a “Girls Night In” package; this relaxing getaway starts with Afternoon Tea and a glass of prosecco overlooking Dublin Bay. Indulge in a pre-dinner cocktail followed by a two-course meal in Shoreline Brasserie and then stay overnight in one of the hotel’s newly refurbished rooms. Autumn Escape packages start from €109; www.shorelinehotel.ie.

Zanzibar Locke, Dublin

Those who prefer to self cater should take note of this chic new aparthotel. Equipped with kitchen, dining and living space, as well as access to laundry facilities, these new studios offer flexibility and a home-meets-hotel ethos and are perfect for city rendez-vous. There are 160 apartments in the complex, which also has a gym, coffee shop and restaurant. Enjoy dinner for two at Baraza restaurant, an overnight stay and late check-out for €219 until August 28; www.lockeliving.com.