From five-star luxury hotels to chic self-catering, there are no shortage of places all over Northern Ireland to treat yourself to a relaxing and rejuvenating break – all within an easy train trip or drive.
The newest offering to open its doors, in April of this year, is the five-star hotel Dunluce Lodge, situated on the Causeway Coast, alongside the fourth fairway of the world famous Royal Portrush Golf Club. Its 35 suites are tastefully decorated, inspired by the colours of nature from the gardens and woodlands nearby.
As a purpose-built luxury hotel, every detail is considered and elegant. Sinead McNicholl, the resort’s director of sales and marketing, says the ethos is “all about creating a personal and meaningful experience for our guests. I don’t believe you can have ‘off-the-shelf’ luxury; it must be tailor-made to suit the needs of each guest.”
The unique approach is exemplified in The Stookan, a private residence designed for larger groups which comprises eight suites – ideal for a golf and spa getaway, special birthday trip with the family or friends’ reunion.
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“We also see a real interest from some of our guests in embracing the personal experiences we have on offer at the hotel,” McNicholl says. “That’s everything from horse riding along White Rocks Beach at sunset to indulgent chocolate-making masterclasses. We go the extra mile to ensure our guests leave Dunluce Lodge relaxed and refreshed with lasting memories which are personal to them.”
Victoria Brown is group marketing manager for the Galgorm Collection – many will be familiar with the flagship Galgorm, one of Northern Ireland’s best-known spa escapes. Newer additions to the portfolio include The Rabbit, the laid-back little sister hotel; The Old Inn, which combines old-world charm with contemporary styling touches; and the Roe Valley Resort, a family-friendly country estate, with lots of fun activities for kids.
Brown says: “True luxury is about creating a sense of effortless ease – where every detail is considered and every guest feels genuinely cared for.” At the Galgorm Collection hotels, that translates as “extraordinary settings, exceptional design, and experiences curated with the finest attention to detail, paired with a personalised service that makes every stay feel both rare and unforgettable”.
We love the charm of The Old Inn. You’ll feel like you’re among the trees in Crawfordsburn Country Park as you enjoy the view from the relaxation room at the Treetop Spa, and clever QR codes inset around the area mean you can order cocktails directly from your phone as you relax in the huge outdoor thermal pool. The hotel has a selection of dog-friendly guestrooms, along with a romantic cottage, and after a day out enjoying the trails and beaches in the area, pooch will receive a warm welcome at the 1614 Bar as well.
Chic city breaks
Belfast is full of wonderful architecture, and it lends itself well to opulent hotel accommodation. There’s a reason the glamorous and buzzing five-star Merchant Hotel in Belfast is a perennial favourite.
If you love the Victorian opulence of The Merchant, but want glamour on a budget, another one to try is The Harrison Chambers of Distinction, a luxury boutique hotel oozing with vintage character.
For a serene and classic boutique escape, Regency House is situated in a lovingly restored Georgian town house at the gateway to south Belfast’s leafy Queen’s Quarter. The decor is restrained elegance at its best, and little details like valet parking elevate the experience, along with the warmth of the staff. Its stunning one- and two-bedroom suites are equipped with kitchen facilities and dining areas ideal for families or longer stays for business travellers, while the newer Heritage rooms feature free-standing copper baths.
In Derry, the top pick has to be the hotel chosen as AA Northern Ireland hotel of the year 2024/25; The Ebrington Hotel epitomises chic contemporary luxury – hard to believe the site was formerly a vast army barracks. In the heart of Derry city, it overlooks the iconic Peace Bridge, and its new form and function as a spa hotel and fine dining destination is emblematic of the renaissance of the area.
Stylish self-catering
If your idea of luxury means truly getting away from it all and connecting with nature, some of Northern Ireland’s self-catering options are sure to delight. Be inspired by the panoramic views from Letteran Lodges nestled at the foot of Slieve Gallion, about an hour inland from Belfast. From the private hot tubs to cosy stoves, and views across to Lough Neagh, the adults-only destination is perfect for a romantic getaway or perhaps a solo trip to get started on that book you’ve always been threatening to write … The sense of space, with views stretching across to Lough Neagh, is truly inspiring, and the cool contemporary styling is on point.
Up on the far north coast, you are rewarded with miles of sweeping sands at Benone Strand, near Burrenmore Nest Lodges. Sleep in the treetops, in a luxury woodland cabin with its private hot tub, and access to a woodland sauna – and if you can, bag tickets to one of The Vox Set series of concerts in the historic surrounds of 200-year-old Mussenden Temple, perched on a cliff edge (Duke Special plays on September 6th). The lodges – with stunning floor-to-ceiling windows – are designed for connecting to nature in total comfort, but you can also chill out with your projector for a movie night. Even better, pets can be booked into two of their properties, and dedicated pet bathing facilities are available to wash off the sand and mud from long beach walks and forest frolics.
