The long, curving driveway to this new hotel takes you through open meadows surrounded by mature trees, all part of the 530-acre Balyna Estate and a great mental divider, as you leave behind the busy road (and life) and look forward to the relaxation ahead.
Although you pass the luxurious 10-bedroom Victorian manor Balyna House first, (available for exclusive use), the hotel is uncompromisingly modern. It looks a little stark, with new apartments directly opposite the front door, which seems a strange decision with so much space available. But it is quite a low building and landscaping is softening it - and the gardens around the back of the hotel are interesting too.
Staff are very friendly and relaxed, setting a welcoming tone from the moment you arrive, and an impressively spacious, comfortably furnished reception area is hung with large atmospheric artwork. Up a fine staircase, the stylish first floor Sundial Bar & Bistro offers a casual menu; with large windows overlooking the golf course and plenty of comfortable seating, it’s a very pleasant place to relax and enjoy a bite.
Accommodation is mainly in the new hotel, in comfortable understated rooms with easy-on-the-eye coffee and cream décor, clean, simple bathrooms and, perhaps, access to a patio; however, in addition to the ten period rooms in Balyna House (house parties/ events only), there is some very appealing accommodation in 2- and 3-bedroom units behind the hotel, in converted outbuildings. These little gems are like tiny townhouses and can be used as hotel rooms or for self catering - and only just across a sweetly landscaped courtyard from the hotel.
With its lovely location so near to Dublin and a leisure centre, this is a great short break destination.
