If you’re looking for something special to do this month in Dublin, these festive hotel breaks and experiences are ideal
After a surreal year, why not enjoy the last few weeks of 2020 with a well earned break or festive experience at one of these fabulous hotels in Dublin.
The full package at The Marker
There is something truly thrilling about a winter city break. The smells, the sounds, the lights – it is a magical time of the year to enjoy some well earned down time. Entering the front doors of Dublin five-star The Marker transports you to a luxury haven in the heart of Dublin city, from the iconic Rooftop Bar to the breath-taking Spa, every aspect of the hotel is an experience to remember.
The ‘Escape to the City’ package has everything you could want: an overnight stay with breakfast, complimentary bottle of Champagne on arrival, dining experience in The Marker Bar featuring the delicious signature Beef & Bordeaux menu, one customised 60-minute spa treatment each, room upgrade, late checkout and valet car parking. If that’s not enough, there’s also complimentary access to the luxurious wellness facilities which include a 23-metre infinity pool, steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi. Escape to the City available from €290 per person sharing and would make the perfect break or gift this winter. themarkerhoteldublin.com
Gift ideas from Ireland’s Blue Book.
Afternoon Tea at the InterContinental
Afternoon tea is a great way to spend time with family or catch up with friends. The five-star InterContinental in Dublin has a really festive package available now. Begin with a selection of finger sandwiches including smoked Irish salmon and dill cream cheese, Dubliner cheese with rosemary roasted ham and enjoy fluffy buttermilk scones with clotted cream and homemade mango and raspberry preserves. Savoury done, indulge in an assortment of decadent desserts such as Christmas pudding creme brulée, pecan pie and coconut and raspberry entremet.
Enjoy Festive Afternoon Tea with your choice of loose teas or gourmet coffee, or add to the celebrations with a well-deserved glass of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut Champagne or Blason Rosé Champagne. It’s €45 per person, €60 with Champagne, and served daily from 12pm to 6pm. Booking is essential and subject to availability, see intercontinentaldublin.ie for more.
Winter on the Quays at The Morrison
For great value inthe heart of the city, the Sunday Christmas Stocking package at The Morrison has loads to offer. An overnight stay for two people sharing, including Festive Fancy Pants afternoon tea, live music in the Quay 14 Bar, a Christmas movie screening in Halo, plus a full Irish breakfast for two. From €175 for two people sharing, this is available throughout December.
While you’re there, be sure to check out the brand new Winter Garden at The Morrison, an al fresco wonderland where you can enjoy dinner or nibbles, cocktails and hot drinks, surrounded by festive décor and twinkling lights on a cosy, heated terrace. morrisonhotel.ie
‘Part-tea’ Christmas at Luttrellstown Castle
On Sunday December 13th and 20th and Monday to Wednesday 21st to 23rd, Castleknock’s beautiful Luttrellstown Castle will open its doors for to very special afternoon tea. The Festive Afternoon Tea menu, prepared by Head Chef Nathan Greensmith, will include sandwiches of treacle cured gammon, smoked Knockanore cheddar, dijon dressing on bloomer bread, whipped goats cheese and truffle mousse and gin and tonic salmon gravadlax. Indulge in some freshly baked buttermilk and vanilla scones and homemade mince pies. And alight your taste buds with the most divine sweet treats including cranberry macaroon with eggnog buttercream, chocolate sable and popping candy and bramley apple and cinnamon mousse. Afternoon Tea is €50 per person and Champagne Afternoon Tea is €65 per person and there will be two sittings on Sunday 13th and 20th (2pm and 4.30pm) and three sittings from the 21st to 23rd (12pm, 2.30pm and 5pm). luttrellstowncastle.com