Is it possible to get any closer to the heart of Dublin than you do in the Westin Hotel? Just 100 metres from O’Connell Bridge, lies this iconic building on Westmoreland Street which just screams elegance and grandeur.
The building itself is the first treat — the imposing structure that goes back to the 1800s and which in the last few decades has been tastefully preserved and modernised to become a leading five-star luxury hotel.
This historic landmark has had a number of past lives, from the home of the Royal Irish Institution, celebrating Irish art and culture in 1813 to robe suppliers for Trinity College students in 1847, and the flagship branch of the Provincial Bank of Ireland in the late 1800s.
Now, however, it is the epitome of excellence in terms of service and standards and is an ideal treat for those of you wishing to enjoy a short break in the heart of Dublin.
Luxurious well appointed rooms; soft linens, nooks and crannies where you can socialise with your family and friends; little corners where you can hide away, read a book and sip a glass of wine.
And right outside the door is central Dublin — the bustling heart, full of life and possibility.
We dined in the Morelands Grill the chic contemporary urban steak house restaurant in the hotel and watched the city life through those large windows. The food is excellent — dinner was superb.
As we dined just feet from the footpath on Westmoreland Street, it reminded me of those big old style NY restaurants of the art deco age, where you could dine and watch the city unfold.
We shared the Peter Hannan 32oz Côte de Boeuf and sides of champ mash and baby onions with mushrooms. The beef was sliced and served at the table and was delicious, allied to the faultless and non-invasive service.
For younger guests too, everything was thought of, and appreciated.
Patrons can enjoy a spot of Afternoon Tea in The Atrium Lounge, an inspirational haven with its five-storey high glass ceiling or have a G&T cocktail at The Mint Bar located in an old underground banking vault. Walk through this hotel and be amazed at what lies around each corner.
Enjoying a privileged and unique location overlooking Trinity College, The Westin Dublin is in the shopping district, within easy walking distance of everything that is Dublin. One reviewer opined that “this is a hotel that is close to everything exciting in Dublin,” and so it is. With valet parking and sublime service, a stay in the Westin for a short break in the capital is a must.
Ideally located for tours, the LUAS passes yards from its front door, enabling you to hop on and off and get through the city with the greatest of ease. The National Wax Museum is just a few doors down, Trinity College and the shopping on Grafton just a few hundred metres the other way; right across from the Westin is the entrance to Temple Bar.
During our entire stay, using the Westin as our base meant that we were never too far away at any stage. The helpful concierge and his colleagues were always keen to ensure that every request was met; that every direction was given, and that every day as you went through those doors, you felt valued as a guest.
Everything is a possibility when you stay at the Westin — a theatre break, a romantic break, a family break served with a slice of Dublin from a vantage point few hotels can offer.
The service at the Westin is second to none. Our room was on a high floor with soaring views of modern Dublin meaning that you can truly experience the city centre in comfortable surroundings. Big comfortable beds and spacious rooms meant you felt you left all your worries at the door.
The Westin is a real treat for a short break in Dublin. The proprietors are purveyors of a wonderful sophistication that everyone should savour.
For details of offers see https://westin.marriott.com. or (01 ) 645 1000.
