2008 Award Winners HOTEL OF THE YEAR 2008

The Merrion Hotel

This fine hotel in the heart of Georgian Dublin comprises four meticulously restored Grade 1 listed townhouses built in the 1760s and, behind them, a contemporary garden wing overlooks formal landscaped gardens. Luxurious public areas include two interconnecting drawing rooms with log fires and French windows (giving access to the gardens), which are immensely popular for business meetings or afternoon tea, and an attractive cocktail bar for evening time.

Irish fabrics and antiques reflect the architecture and original interiors, with rococo plasterwork ceilings and classically proportioned windows - and the hotel owns one of the most important private collections of 20th-century art. Maintenance is immaculate - refurbishment of soft furnishings, for example, is so skilfully effected that it is completely unnoticeable.

Discreet, thoughtful service is an outstanding feature of the hotel and staff, under the excellent direction of General Manager Peter MacCann, are exceptionally courteous and helpful – there's a pervading sense of comfort and warmth that's especially welcoming and appealing: every guest is made to feel like a VIP from the moment of arrival – and, passing through the magnificent reception rooms, buzzing with chatter, tinkling china and crackling fires, a sense of immediate calm takes over. In a world of indentikit hotels with bland service, The Merrion feels incredibly special.

Beautifully furnished guest rooms and suites have sumptuous bathrooms (all with separate bath and shower) and all the extras expected in a hotel of this calibre and the hotel’s Tethra Spa, with its Romanesque styled pool and marble steam room, is also predictably luxurious.

Dining options match standards elsewhere in the hotel: choose between the elegant vaulted Cellar Restaurant and Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, which is also on site.

Breakfast is also noteworthy with exquisite baked goods, an excellent buffet and tempting menu cooked to order.