You know how I'm always planning ahead? Well I've been thinking about a nice Autumnal break in Ireland. The leaves are starting to turn, there's a certain nip in the air and I'd just like to get out into the country and kick leaves around - I like it because it's a little destructive but people you're with will just think you're a big kid at heart. Little do they know that really you've got a thing against those pesky leaves...
Anyway, enough of my irrational hatred of leaves... At the moment the other guys in the office are looking at best kept secret hotels, and this got me thinking. Where are some of the best little gems (and don't say in Sainsbury's with the other lettuces, it's not funny) in Dublin and Belfast? I'm after great value weekends away. Fab little bases from which to explore the glorious Emerald Isle. And I did pretty well (did you expect anything less dear reader??).
From 2nd - 5th October in Belfast Botanical Gardens are putting on "Enchanted Evenings" - performance artists, puppeteers, lights, and music. Think I'll wrap up warm and see if I can get a hot chocolate at that one! Anyone in need of a laugh should head down to the Empire Music Hall in November, this long-running comedy club has a host of comedians. And the Giant's Causeway is a spectacular natural feature of the area. So where to stay in Belfast....?
The 3 star Days Hotel Belfast is extremely popular with guests for its great value and . It is modern, has a nice historical element - you can see one of the wall murals that Belfast is famous for. Great hospitality and a nice hearty breakfast to set you up for the day ahead. Sounds good to me!The Days Hotel Belfast also has a special offer in November - 3 nights for the price of 2 from £78pp. Bargain!
The 4 star Europa Hotel is also well recommended - if it's good enough for Bill Clinton...! Very good standard of rooms and places to sit and 'be' (a very nice pastime!) - the lobby bar, Piano restaurant and the brasserie. Located right in the centre of Belfast, all the major sights are within walking distance. Very stylish rooms too - with Ralph Lauren fabrics.... oooh!Europa Hotel Belfast from £53pppn
And if, like me, you sometimes want lots of luxury and peace and quiet, the 4 star Slieve Donard Hotel County Down will fit the bill. This imposing red brick Victorian hotel effortlessly mixes old and new. The lobby, reception and restaurant are traditional, while the spa, bar and breakfast room are strikingly modern. The rooms are a happy blend of both. Venture outside and be overwhelmed by the breathtaking beauty of the County Down countryside.Slieve Donard Hotel County Down from £70pppn
You're probably more than aware that Dublin is the 'home' of Guiness, so pop into the Guiness Storehouse, which will tell you everything you need to know (and don't) about Guimess! Or soak up the atmosphere at the nightly performance of Irish music, song and dance, with optional dinner! Sounds like a nice way to spend an evening, that doesn't involve Guiness (don't worry, you can have some with your meal!).
Above all, get out in the fresh air and do a tour of the Dublin Castle and Bay to work off all those calories from all the Guiness you'll have quaffed. I like Guiness. Can you tell?
Lots of bargains to be had at Dublin hotels too. My pick of the best are (cue Top of the Pops style intro music):
Cassidy's Hotel Dublin is a 3 star superior, family-run establishment housed in 3 traditional red brick townhouses. Inside the decor is that lovely mix of contemporary and classic. Bedrooms feature flat screen TVs (so cool!) and really comfy beds. I love the bar here - very classical styling with wood panelling. Very chic.
Cassidy's Hotel Dublin 4 nights for the price of 3 (from £165pp) in October, and in November you can get 3 nights for the price of 2 (from £94pp)
If you're looking for a longer break - there are plenty of things to do in the area, so I can promise you won't get bored - try The Morgan Hotel. A boutique hotel in a central position. A very sophisticated hotel. The bar's really trendy, which I like. Great if you're after a bit of nightlife as well as country walks.
And as a wildcard, check out the exotic reception at the Trinity Capital Hotel. I think the designers had obviously been on a time travel world-tour - colonial meets eastern with safari inspired furnishings and spicy colours. A real feast for the eyes. Rooms are more toned down (thank goodness!) with a very high standard of furniture - walnut and leather desks anyone? Plasma screen and a welcome tray of goodies. I don't think I'd want to leave the room!
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