Four Seasons Hotel, Dublin
Dublin is a city that is coming into its own. It has a vibrant culture that’s evident all over the city from the boutiques and bars to museums and music. I simply love coming to Dublin and when I visit here, I always stay at the Four Seasons Dublin Hotel. It’s located less than 10 minutes away from the city center but feels like a secluded getaway. Set within the Royal Society show grounds, in the ivy covered residential neighborhood of Ballsbridge, the Georgian-styled hotel is close enough to Dublins vitality, yet private enough for luxurious relaxation.
The lobby is tastefully decorated in traditional style and check in is swift and efficient.. All the wood paneling and fine furniture is reminiscent of a private gentlemen’s club.
The opulence of the lobby is continued in all of the 196 guest rooms at the Four Seasons Dublin. Luxurious Four Seasons touches include down pillows and comforters that are oh so warm on a cold Irish night. You’ll also find satellite TV, a CD and DVD player in all the rooms, though my favorite amenity is the Jacuzzi tub and huge marble bath. For guests that are looking to spread out a bit, they also have suites available that come complete with a separate living room and guest powder room. The desk and work area has a dedicated private fax, high speed internet and personal voicemail. Of course the Presidential Suite is the height of extravagance, and the largest in the city. This room has a separate dining room, kitchen and living room. It’s like having your own home in Dublin!
Dining at the Four Seasons is always a pleasure. For light meals with a casual touch pop into the “Café”, but if it is a finer meal that you’re after, then you’ll want to dine at the “Seasons” Restaurant, overlooking the garden and courtyard. The menu here stresses upon the fresh ingredients that the Irish countryside provides. The cuisine is contemporary European but it is always combined with the tastes of that season. If you’re looking to sit back and enjoy a nice tea or cocktail, than the “Lobby Lounge” is the place to go, also with a lovely view. It’s the perfect place to go at anytime during the day for a drink and snack.
After dinner, if you’re looking to enjoy a fine Irish whiskey in a traditional pub, head to “The Bar”. They have a large selection of whiskeys to choose from and their knowledgeable staff can advise you on a good choice. For drinks in a more contemporary atmosphere locals as well as guests can be found at the very trendy “Ice Bar,” lined with an impressive array of art and sculpture.
Earlier in the day I found time to enjoy a glass of champagne at the Four Season’s indoor heated pool and jacuzzi, part of the hotel’s Spa and FitnessCenter. The Spa has a full line of body treatments and massages to choose from. In the fitness center they have all the latest cardiovascular equipment along with individual televisions and wireless headsets.
What sets the Four Seasons Dublin apart from the rest are the employees. I find that the essence of a good hotel is the staff, and here they’re all hand selected. The staff here want to be here. To them, it’s not just a job, they truly want to make their guests happy…and it shows!
The Four Seasons Dublin is not only a great place to stay, but its luxurious and historic atmosphere make it the perfect hotel to appreciate your visit to Ireland.