Dublin, Ireland
The Merrion
Grandest Grande Dame
What it is
The 142-room pride of Dublin, with a 2-Michelin-starred restaurant, cocktail bar, French limestone pool and wellness-driven spa tucked within four Georgian-era townhouses.
What it isn't
Artless. The hotel is home to a museum-worthy Irish art collection that includes pieces by Jack B. Yeats (the poet’s brother) and surrealist painter Mary Swanzy.
What we think
There is not much about the 1760s that we’d want to relive, but the architecture? Yes please. Blessedly, all of the era’s ornate touches (vaulted ceilings, rococo plasterwork) are brought back to resplendent life, here. Book a Deluxe King Room to be treated like a—yes—king, with pampering amenities like Asprey toiletries, a Nespresso machine and butler service. Junior Suites are tailor-made for Instagram glory, thanks to toile-wrapped canopy beds (made of Irish fabrics, natch) and gilt woodwork. While you’re here, be sure to take advantage of the topnotch spa, where new-age treatments include pumpkin enzyme facial peels and massages with rose quartz crystals.
You're here because
The hotel maintains a fleet of loaner bikes that are totally tricked out for guests, with tote bags, rain coats and even picnics in their baskets upon request (plus helmets. Safety first.).
The Moment
Two Michelin stars don’t lie. Which is why you’re not even a little bit surprised that your dinner at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud is transcendent—from the blue lobster ravioli to the Wicklow lamb with bergamot and Taggiasca olive.
Restaurants & Bars
The Cellar Restaurant - Modern Irish cuisine
Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud - A fine dining experience
The Cellar Bar - Casual gastro-pub cuisine
No. 23 - A clubby ambience conducive to relaxed conversation
Location
A block from St. Stephen’s Green in downtown Dublin, and a five minute walk from Trinity College—founded in 1592—where the barrel-vaulted library is more cinematic than anything at Hogwarts.