Just over 30 km south of Dublin city this quietly luxurious golf resort and leisure hotel enjoys a stunning setting between the mountains and sea in the Garden of Ireland. Though only minutes from Greystones it has a tranquil rural setting and a wonderful feeling of calm as you arrive.
The marbled lobby with its dramatic fireplace and lovely seasonal flowers is surprisingly large, and this spaciousness is a general feature of the hotel, from the extensive grounds to the roomy suites and guest rooms, many of them “double/doubles” (with two queen sized beds). It is well known as a business hotel and it’s extremely comfortable with all manner of luxury, including individual ‘climate control’ (heating and air conditioning), and separate bath and walk-in showers.
Alongside two championship golf courses the hotel also offers a heated pool and Jacuzzi that enjoy natural light from a huge floor-to-ceiling window, also a small gym and award-winning spa that get plenty of use from golfers, holidaymakers and business travellers. The hotel has marked out walking and jogging paths around its grounds and there are bikes to borrow should you wish to explore the lush green estate.
While mainly a golf resort, families have also become a priority in recent years and amenities include an excellent secluded and gated playground, an indoor playroom with toddlers’ zone and an older kids playroom where complementary movies, console games and popcorn are available.
Family packages at Druids Glen are surprisingly keenly priced for a hotel of this calibre and there are numerous items built in which ease the pain for parents. Alongside welcome packs and seasonal holiday activities there’s a special kids’ menu, children under 12 eat free, and the restaurant also features a special kids buffet during school holidays, making a family break here relaxing and good value.
The aim is to provide opportunities for families to enjoy quality time together, so a kids' club is not offered; while this may seem to be a disadvantage to parents researching the options for a family break, it is more than offset by the quality of the amenities and activities offered, and it's an ideal base for forest walks and visits to Glendalough, Brittas Bay, Powerscourt and Glenroe Pet Farm. Older kids will love the equestrian and fishing opportunities or a day at Clara Lara Adventure Park, as well as the games and movie rooms.
Staff throughout the resort are noteworthy for their friendly and helpful manner.
Dining
With woodland views, clean-lined modern decor and smart white-clothed tables, Hugo's Restaurant offers a high standard of fine dining informed by the best of seasonal produce and allows Head Chef David O’Donnell and his team to flex their culinary muscles. Breakfast is also served in Hugo's and there are several good all-day dining options, notably the plush Garden Rooms, with the main hotel bar and an extensive terrace for bistro-style dining overlooking the 13th hole. Additionally, Druids Glen Golf Club (beside the recently restored 18th Century Woodstock House) offers a full bar and family-friendly casual dining with views of the golf course
