A nature retreat in the heart of Cork city, this cabin in the woods epitomises luxury
A freestanding bath, a private terrace overlooking the River Lee, and a feeling of genuine tranquillity flowing through the space, these little lodges are redefining and elevating the Irish woodland stay.
By now, we’re all well acquainted with the realm of ‘alternative accommodation’ here in Ireland. These hotel-adjacent offerings span a wide spectrum, from treehouses and renovated camper vans to glamping pods and glass domes, expanding the horizons of what we’ve come to expect from a staycation.
An offering that’s unearthing a whole new paradigm of luxury is The Woodland Suite Experience at The Montenotte in Cork city. Though I spent my one-night stay revelling in the glory of solitude, I must concede that the Woodland Suites are absolutely made to be enjoyed with your other half on a romantic getaway to remember.
The symbol of the hotel is one of a jackalope, which is a mythical creature found in both the wilderness and more urban settings, comprising part-rabbit, part-antelope, and it’s a crest that makes sense for what it is that this hotel is trying to get across: The Montenotte is putting its energy into creating the perfect fairytale experience for grown ups.
A short walk (and even shorter spin) from Cork’s city centre, I quite literally couldn’t believe how utterly encased in nature I felt from the private balcony of my Woodland Suite. The sound of silence is very different in a place like this, far removed from the hum of city life, the chirp of birds and rustle of leaves made waking up a pleasure.
We need to take a moment for the design and build of these incredible outdoor spaces. To call them ‘glamping pods’ would be far too reductive, as no expense was spared in the curation of suites that incorporate Scandinavian architectural influences and the interior artistry of Japanese design principles.
They’re described as ‘elevated minimalism’, and offer an avant garde luxury experience to be relished. Interior design comes from Róisín Lafferty, and is harmonious with the outside world while incorporating the highest quality pieces ranging from silver travertine flooring, stone baths facing out towards the views, and custom rice paper to diffuse daylight.
When you stay at one of these treehouse or river-facing standalone outdoor suites, you’re entirely secluded, but you also benefit from all of the hotel facilities. A member of staff will collect you in their adorable little buggy, spin you up to the main entrance, and you can make good use of the spa (and Salt Room!), gym and swimming pool, the restaurant, and the on-site cinema.
The site is dotted with art installations and the grounds are well tended, complete with a water feature and herbs used by the kitchen in the preparation of their signature dishes. A beautiful touch by anyone’s standards, for every Woodland Suite Experience, The Montenotte plant a tree in your honour in partnership with Home Tree Charity. So, your escape is not only lavish, but contributes to a sustainable future.
One piece of advice I would give you when booking your stay at The Montenotte Woodland Experience is to make no plans outside of complete and utter relaxation.
Yes, it may be in close proximity to the draw of the city, but once you check in and flomp onto the bed of your treehouse, you won’t want to leave. Cocktails and nibbles in The Clubhouse, dinner in the Panorama Restaurant overlooking the Lee and beyond, and an early evening wrapped up in a plush robe waiting for your bath to fill — it’s bliss, complete and utter bliss.
Sarah Gill was a guest of The Montenotte. Find out more about The Woodland Suite Experience and book your stay today here.
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