Cork hotels

Perched on the banks of its namesake river, The River Lee is a contemporary hotel just a short walk from the city center. A member of the highly regarded Doyle Hotel Group, it’s known for being one of the best hotels in Cork and has 182 comfortable guestrooms, many of which offer sweeping views over the river below.

All are generous in size and decorated in a muted, understated palette, with dedicated workspaces and speedy Wi-Fi. There’s also an in-house gym with leisure facilities that include an indoor pool. The ground floor River Club is a popular choice for drinks or dinner, with a buzzy, classically styled grill room and bar offering great food in a brasserie-style space.

My personal highlight, however, has to be drinks or lunch on the fragrant, Mediterranean-inspired riverside terrace, which is decked out in a stunning array of fresh seasonal flowers.

Just a few minutes’ walk from Kent train station, The Dean is a statement building and one of the best hotels in Cork for those looking for something different. Much like its Dublin and Galway siblings, this Cork outpost is full of quirky touches, while entering the lobby hints at the eclecticism that lies ahead.

I love the first floor co-working spaces that sit harmoniously beside the open-plan front desk and bar area, the background music keeping the vibe on point. Rooms are equally fun, with works by local artists, vinyl record players, Smeg fridges and fully-stocked “munchie trays.”

On the top floor, Sophie’s rooftop restaurant is busy and buzzy, with a central bar and kitchen flanked by red booths. The balcony terraces offer cozy blankets when needed, as well as panoramic views over the city. As far as the best hotels in Cork go, The Dean is right up there.

Once an Edwardian tobacco warehouse, the charming Hotel Isaacs is today one of the best boutique hotels in Cork. Located in the Victorian Quarter, it’s just five minutes from the lively restaurants and bars of St. Patrick’s Street, while Cork’s famous English Market is only 10 minutes away on foot.

There are 48 guestrooms and 11 self-catering apartments, all tastefully decorated and featuring the latest modern comforts. When it comes to restaurants and bars, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Greene’s restaurant, one of Cork’s most sought-after dining establishments, is located within Isaacs.

For post-dinner nightcaps head to Cask, a cocktail bar that is possibly the best in Ireland. Don’t miss the chance to sit beside the bar’s naturally occurring waterfall, a truly unique place to while away an hour and soak up the ambience.

A haven of tranquility and one of the best hotels in Cork, Hayfield Manor is a 10-minute stroll from the city but feels a million miles away. A wonderfully restored period property, the public areas are full of discrete nooks and crannies for those who crave quiet contemplation.

Those who prefer a more hands on approach, meanwhile, should head to the spa for a “Ground Ritual,” which uses products from the local Irish brand, Ground Wellbeing. As you would expect from a five-star property and one of the best hotels in Cork, the bedrooms are both generous and luxurious, with every comfort you could need. Expect golf putters and Elemis Spa Products to relax after a long day.

Afternoon tea is big business at Hayfield Manor and the hotel has won numerous awards for it. If the sun is shining, head to Bloom, the hotel’s newest addition, for botanical cocktails and brunch. Located in the pretty courtyard, its glass walls and retractable ceiling offer sublime views over the gardens.

A true urban resort just ten minutes’ drive from the city, The Montenotte is a destination hotel with a range of facilities that are second to none.

From the in-house Cameo Cinema, with its plush velvet seats and on-demand drinks and snacks, to the award-winning Bellevue spa and health club, which boasts a 65ft (20m) heated pool and wellness area with a sauna, steam room and hot tub, it’s difficult to tear yourself away from the hotel grounds.

Furthering its status as one of the best hotels in Cork, the zero-waste Panorama restaurant is a destination in itself. A resident jazz pianist serenades guests from Thursday to Saturday, only adding to the sense of occasion. Plus, the rooftop terrace of the Glasshouse Bar, with its breathtaking views over the city, is one of my favorite places to spend a sunny evening.