Walk in off the street of this small Irish town, past topiary balls in square wicker holders, to the vast marble lobby with its double-sided gas fire, some 16 giant sofas, and New-Age mood music, and you could be in the heart of metropolitan anywhere. A product of Ireland's economic boom, this swish and stylish boutique hotel may not be what you've come to the West of Ireland to experience, but here it is: enjoy! It's part of a large new complex in the town center, and shares leisure facilities with its more traditional sister hotel, the Castlecourt. The best bedrooms overlook a Zen-like inner roof garden, while others have balconies overlooking the fountain and ground-floor courtyard. Rooms are huge, with large, veneered Art Deco-style furniture, brown bucket chairs, and white bed linen topped with a dark-red satin throw. Bathrooms have Jacuzzi baths, walk-in showers, and Connemara marble washstands. Pros: all the creature comforts; best of modern design; quiet and central. Cons: a few bedrooms have street views and no balconies: avoid; you might forget you're in Ireland. info@wastportplazahotel.ie
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