Whether you’re celebrating a big occasion, planning a cultural weekend, heading to a concert in the Aviva or 3Arena, or hitting the shops, these hotels offer the perfect base for a girls’ weekend in Dublin …
The Leinster
If you are planning a cultural weekend, then The Leinster ticks many boxes. This boutique gem is a short stroll from the National Gallery, Oscar Wilde’s House, and also houses an impressive art collection of its own with works by over 80 artists including Damien Hirst, Tom Climent, Diana Copperwhite, and Melissa O’Donnell. Fashionistas will enjoy the hotel’s fashion links – suites are named after designers such as Louise Kennedy and the talented Whisker sisters and there’s a tempting pop-up by One Dame Lane jewellery. You’ll find lots of decor inspiration in the rooms from the pops of lipstick red in the colour scheme to statement headboards, nifty bathrooms, Assouline reading material and Patchology face masks in the mini bar – a very clever addition! The coral-hued Collins Bar, a homage to the late designer David Collins, is the perfect prelude to dinner in Jean-Georges’ rooftop restaurant, where breakfast is also served. As a special occasion weekend, I can’t think of a better venue. www.theleinster.ie
The Wilder
I always enjoy stays at this discreet and decidedly characterful hotel, located on one of the prettiest streets on Dublin. Art is a feature of the hotel as are thoughtful additions to the rooms; on my last visit a book of haikus were on the pillow for some bedtime reading. The hotel has partnered with Grace Ann Fallon, a noted tour and travel expert, so if you and your friends what to discover hidden gems or are on a mission for sustainable fashionable finds, Grace Ann will devise a tour for you. These begin with a consultation prior to your visit and then last from two to five hours which include plenty of refuelling stops as well as shopping tips. As for the hotel, make the most of its pretty terrace on sunny evenings and enjoy the superb breakfasts – the hotel has a One Michelin Key. www.thewilder.ie
House Dublin
A supremely central base in the city, House Dublin straddles two Georgian Townhouses on Leeson Street. You may know the venue for its dining options including the posh Pink Room with inspiring gallery walls or the Conservatory restaurant which is a lovely setting for lunch, as is the outdoor restaurant garden. On the premises are 16 bedrooms which combine style and comfort. Exposed brickwork, quirky lamps, interesting art, huge beds and lovely amenities (Rituals toiletries, Nespresso machines) will appeal to boutique hotel fans. The location couldn’t be better – close to the hot spots and also for evening strolls along the canal. The hotel has a late night bar which is great if you want to party with friends. It also means things can get noisy if you want an early night but ear plugs are provided. www.housedublin.ie
The Grafton
Whether celebrating a birthday, enjoying a concert, or simply enjoying a catch-up, The Grafton’s current Friends’ City offer, €720, should be on your radar. This includes a stay in one of its spacious sharing rooms with art deco accents, which can accommodate up to six guests. The configuration of each room includes a super kingsize bed or twin beds in addition to two sets of bunk beds, with separate bathroom and shower facilities. Complimentary prosecco and snacks are included, while the on-site Bartley’s Bar is an elegant spot for dining. Breakfast is served in The Coffee Dock and on the terrace where you can soak up the sunshine and enjoy some people watching. The hotel also offers discounted parking at the Drury Streetcar Park, and late check-out options. www.thegrafton.ie
Staycity Aparthotel
Perfectly positioned just off Henry Street, this sleek, modern aparthotel offers a great location – moments from the Ha’penny Bridge, Temple Bar, and shopping streets of Mary Street and Henry Street. It gives you the ultimate flexibility of independence and access to superb facilities and, as the name suggests, blurs the boundaries between apartment and hotel. Guests can choose from 340 stylish studio and one-bed apartments with fully equipped kitchenettes, though if you’re not in the mood to cater, there’s also an on-site café serving breakfast, snacks and drinks. Guests also have access to a fitness room, work spaces (with high speed WiFi) and a 24-hour reception. www.staycity.com
Fitzwilliam Hotel
“Made Up at The Fitzwilliam” is an indulgent escape designed for beauty lovers, cocktail fans, and weekend wanderers alike. Check in and guests will find a €50 voucher from Sculpted by Aimee along with a surprise gift. The Sculpted by Aimee boutique is very close to the hotel on Grafton Street, where makeovers are available to book. Also included are two cocktails in the newly refurbished Lounge which gives Mad Men vibes and has a great menu too. Rooms are effortlessly elegant; if you haven’t been lately you’ll find the lobby and communal areas refreshed and glamorous. Parking is also available. www.fitzwilliamhoteldublin.com
Conrad Dublin
If your mission is a shopping spree in the city, then take note of Conrad Dublin’s new Personal Shopping Retreat package, in collaboration with Brown Thomas, from €329. This indulgent overnight stay includes dinner in The Coburg, a chauffeur ride to BTs, where the personal shopping experience is “hands free” – ie purchases are delivered to the hotel where a glass of champagne awaits. Don’t miss a wander around St Stephen’s Green and do pop into to see the new exhibition at MoLi inspired by our collective love of romantic fiction. It’s sure to spark some memories and also ideas for holiday reading. www.hilton.com
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