Formerly a bank this historic 19th-century hotel is filled with cosy corners, Â fascinating artwork and is situated in the heart of the city, making it the perfect spot for a christmassy stay …
Featured Image; The Atrium of The Westin, Dublin.
THE VIBE: An historic 19th-century hotel in a prime position overlooking Trinity College and within minutes of Grafton Street. As a former bank, The Banking Hall with its gleaming marble pillars, ornate stucco ceiling and statement chandeliers provides an unforgettable setting for galas and weddings and is one of the most stunning events venues in the city.Â
NEED TO KNOW: Last year, the hotel unveiled a redesign and expansion by Dublin-based architecture and interior design firm NODA. The lobby was reconfigured and is now light-filled and atmospheric and, at this time of year, particularly festive. I counted seven Christmas trees and Santa nestled behind stairs setting the tone for a warm, welcoming stay.
THE ROOMS: There are 191 guest rooms which prioritise space and comfort. Signature details include a Westin Heavenly Bed, and a Heavenly Shower (with Malin + Goetz and Elizabeth Arden White Tea amenities) in Italian marble en suite bathrooms. If you want to really impress then book one of the two-storey Library Suites, celebrating Irish writers George Bernard Shaw, Samuel Beckett, WB Yeats, and Oscar Wilde, each with a bespoke spiral staircase and stunning views.Â
THE RESTAURANTS: The Atrium Lounge is a favourite for Christmas Perrier-Jouët afternoon teas (€142 for two), and the new Library with fireplace also provides cosy nooks for more intimate get-togethers. Morelands Grill, the hotel’s contemporary steakhouse where breakfast is also served, has great picture windows perfect for people watching. The Mint Bar, concealed within the original vaults of the former bank, is all moody sophistication, where mixologists are kept busy serving up some delicious signature cocktails.Â
VERDICT: Effortless elegance and service impress at The Westin. I particularly liked perusing the artworks – from former photographs of the bank in its heyday to contemporary pieces such as Murmuration in the Atrium, and abstract artworks in the bedrooms created by Marc Ryan and Maree Hensee which emphasise the coastal vibes of the bedroom decor. As for the Heavenly Beds, I did sleep particularly well and loved the crisp linen, which can also be purchased. This is an ideal base for Christmas shopping in Dublin.Overnight rates are from €390. www.thewestinhoteldublin.com
