Dublin Special: A luxury city break at the Intercontinental Dublin
There is nothing nicer than a change of scenery at this stage of the year and it is the perfect time to embark on a city break. Dublin is only a short hop across the Irish Sea from most UK airports and it provides the perfect respite from normal daily life. With a number of delicious restaurants, vibrant bars and quirky fashion boutiques, this welcoming city is a great place to explore during a weekend or for a few days in the week.
For the luxury traveller, there is no better destination than the Intercontinental Dublin. This has always been the most famous luxury property in the Irish capital and was formerly the Four Seasons before a stunning re-brand took place. The Intercontinental Dublin is a 5* hotel and it is located right next door to the show grounds of the Royal Dublin Society. The RDS Horse Show is one of the biggest European equestrian events and takes place in the summer months. Needless to say, the Intercontinental Dublin is the place to stay during this time. It is also very popular throughout the year and this is due to the fantastic facilities that it offers.
There is a selection of dining facilities at the Intercontinental Dublin
Luxury spas and swimming pools are not overly common in Dublin, with only a select few hotels accommodating such facilities. However, the pool area at the Intercontinental Dublin is impressive enough to rival some of the world’s leading properties. The enormous Jacuzzi bath overlooks a softly lit pool and a patio area. Meanwhile, the spa boasts a number of treatment rooms, where bespoke beauty rituals take place.
The Vanilla and Honey Body Scrub is currently one of the most popular treatments on the spa menu. It is ideal for this time of year as it focuses on giving you soft and radiant skin. The treatment begins with a scrub using vanilla before a refreshing shower half way through. You then return to the room for a relaxing massage that uses honey. While your skin will feel slightly sticky afterwards, as soon as you wash the honey off you will be bowled over by the feeling of smoothness. This is ideal for the current climate and really gives your body some extra TLC as we battle the wintery climate.
The spa at the Intercontinental Dublin is gorgeous
While the spa is particularly impressive and you could spend hours enjoying a restful escape here, the other areas of the hotel are well worth exploring too. The lounge and bar area adjoin and they attract a sophisticated crowd and have a great ambience. A live pianist plays during the evening and cocktails are the favoured choice.
Meanwhile the dining areas at the Intercontinental Dublin are also very appealing. The Seasons restaurant is light and airy, offering Irish cuisine and an elegant setting. The Ice Bar is more contemporary in feel and a great place to enjoy an early evening drink if you prefer this area to the lounge and adjoining Whiskey Bar.
However, central Dublin is also only a few minutes away in a taxi. There are some fabulous restaurants in town and one of our favourite ones is definitely Residence. Residence will feature later in the week during our Dublin Special, but this is a fantastic venue for fine-dining, casual drinks and it also has a piano bar that is open late into the night. The former Members’ Club is situated on Stephen’s Green and attracts a stylish crowd. It is just around the corner from the famous O’Donohughue’s pub, which is a must visit for those wanting to enjoy a traditional pint of Guinness.
Residence is a great place to visit in town
This area of the city is only a short walk from Grafton Street and here you will find some of the best shops that Dublin has to offer. Brown Thomas is packed with designer brands and the surrounding streets also include a number of boutique offerings. We loved discovering the Powerscourt Shopping Centre and also Coco Boutique, which had a number of striking individual pieces that would make a great addition to the wardrobe. Another favourite place to dine is Saba and this vibrant eatery has excellent Vietnamese cuisine for lunch and dinner.
Dublin has kept its sense of originality and many of the shops, bars and restaurants provide you with a unique experience, which makes a visit to this city especially memorable.
Following a trip into the city, you can return to the luxury of the Intercontinental Dublin and rest up in one of their plush rooms. They are particularly spacious and provide guests with all of the typical premium furnishings that you would expect when staying in a luxurious property.
The Intercontinental Dublin will provide you with a luxurious and relaxing break
After a few days in the Irish capital, you will return feeling relaxed and in a joyous mood, thanks to the jubilant atmosphere and welcoming people.
