Merrion Hotel

Merrion Hotel Review

Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington and hero of Waterloo, once famously commented when queried about his Irish birth: "Just because a man is born in a stable doesn't make him a horse"—so he would be undoubtedly delighted to see his "stable" has come up far in the world as it is now a stately, spiffy, and luxurious hotel. It actually comprises four exactingly restored Georgian town houses, all splendidly situated directly across from Government Buildings between Stephen's Green and Merrion Square. Some of the guest rooms are appointed in classic Georgian style—from the crisp linen sheets to the Carrara-marble bathrooms. Some are vaulted with delicate Adamesque plasterwork ceilings, and others are graced with magnificent, original marble fireplaces. Still, the decor is almost too spiffy—if this is the 18th century, it has been buffed to a shiny 21st-century gloss—so, to fully enjoy the historic patina, opt for one of the more authentic rooms in the Main House at the front. The staff are obviously accustomed to dealing with heads of state and royalty, so ladies shouldn't be surprised if they are addressed as "Madame." And all will enjoy the hotel's little spa, a perfect place to unwind. Clearly, this place must be very special, since leading Dublin restaurateur Patrick Guilbaud has moved his eponymous and fabulous restaurant here.