It’s set among one of the most scenic and historic estates in the Ireland, and the 200-room Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa is a luxury boutique hotel which is really more of an escape with a romantic getaway in mind. The Palladian-style architecture stands sentinel over the ethereal setting and with two championship-calibre golf courses, a world class spa, a signature restaurant and a traditional Irish pub, this is one of Ireland’s best luxury hotels - and it’s just half an hour away from Dublin.
The Rooms
The 200 rooms and suites are in seven different categories: Classic Deluxe, Mountain View Deluxe, Superior Suites, Classic Suites, Mountain View Suite, Powerscourt Suite and Presidential Suite. The average size is a generous 68 sq metres (700 sq feet) and all come with marble bathrooms, rainforest showers, interactive flat screen TVs, recessed bathroom TVs and free Wi-Fi. Even the 60 “entry level” Classic Deluxe rooms are special with elegant and plush furnishings in a classic decor which is the reason the Powerscourt is widely regarded as the best hotel in Ireland. And if you really want to enjoy total luxury, the Presidential Suite has a rooftop terrace and outdoor jacuzzi with fantastic views of the estate.
Dining
There are three main dining options, and room service of course, including Sika Restaurant which is on the third floor with floor to ceiling windows affording grand views of Sugar Loaf Mountain and you can dine alfresco all year round on a terrace with retractable awnings and burners. The food is classical Irish featuring the best of local produce. There’s also the option to enjoy private dining at the Chef’s Table with Sika’s elite team at your disposal. The Sugar Loaf Lounge is on the lobby level and this is a more casual setting which serves an all-day menu, afternoon tea daily and cocktails each evening. McGills is an Irish pub with wall-to-wall memorabilia with a fine selection of beers and whiskeys, and a traditional menu of old favourites prepared with a contemporary twist.
Other Facilities
The massive spa facility, ESPA, takes pride of place at Powerscourt with its 20 treatment rooms, and its other-world 20-metre indoor heated pool, a state-of-the-art thermal suite along with a fitness studio featuring modern cardio equipment. If you’re into the great outdoors, from Powerscourt you can take part in activities like fishing, cycling, walking, jogging, golf, horse riding or take a dip in Ireland’s biggest waterfall.
The Verdict
This luxury boutique hotel is more of a resort than a traditional “hotel” and is one of the most stunning properties in Ireland and is perfect if you’re looking for a romantic getaway to escape the real world.