Whether within the grounds of a viscount’s country estate, a lighthouse that doubled as a family home or an architect’s city pad, find your home away from home in these Irish stays.
Galley Head Lighthouse
HISTORY
Perched on one of Ireland’s most southerly peninsulas is the magnificent Galley Head Lighthouse.. Though it may look desolate, the lightkeeper’s house has been a hive of activity for generations. Galley Head’s last live-in keeper, Pauline Butler, raised her 15 children here. Her husband, Larry, was lightkeeper here until his death when she took over the role, the first woman to do so. Rich in history as well as homeliness, it’s been thoughtfully restored by the Irish Landmark Trust into two holiday rentals.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The sight of the slivers of light slicing across the white water as you round the corner to Galley Head is something to behold. Dramatic, the wind whips around the buildings and yet with a heavy slam of the front door, its weighty locks pulled into place and the din quietens. A homely kitchen/diner, fitted with everything you’d need for a home cooked meal sits alongside a cosy living room with open fire. Upstairs are two bedrooms, one double and one twin. Leave the shutters open at bedtime to watch the lighthouse light up the sea beyond.
HIGHLIGHTS
Make time to meet Gerald, Pauline and Larry’s son and the light’s current attendant. He’ll be happy to give you a tour of the still-functional light and is a fountain of stories about Galley Head and his childhood growing up there.
WHAT TO DO
Long Strand, aptly named and which you can see over the wall of the light, is the perfect spot for a blustery walk. Hit The Little Island Coffee Van or Patrick’s Fish & Chips afterwards, depending on which end of the beach you finish up at. Clonakilty, just a ten minute drive away is not to be missed. One of the most colourful towns in Ireland, its main street a veritable treasure of independent shops and great coffee. Hit Kerr’s Bookshop and try not to buy everything in Michelle Mitton’s Design Shop – I failed miserably at this.
From €568 for 2 nights for up to four people. Irishlandmark.com
Words by Lauren Heskin
Powerscourt Hotel
HISTORY
The hotel is just a short stroll from Powerscourt House and Gardens, a Palladian mansion originally completed in 1741 for Lord Powerscourt. A major refurbishment was completed in 1974, however a fire destroyed the building soon after, and it was rebuilt in 1996. The incredible 47 acres of beautiful gardens, which were named the third best garden in the world by National Geographic were begun alongside the construction of the house, with most of what we see today being added in the 1840s.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Powerscourt Hotel mimics the Palladian style of the house, while it has been designed to make the most of its breath-taking surroundings of the Wicklow mountains. The rooms are generously sized and feel truly luxurious – make sure you don’t leave without a long soak in the positively enormous bath to be found in each room. Plus, with several dining options from the casual to the high-end, your every need is taken care of.
HIGHLIGHTS
The spa is undoubtedly a draw – with its serene views of the landscape you’ll feel like you’re in another world as you relax, whether you opt for a skin treatment, massage, deep relaxation sound wave session. There is also a Swarovski Crystal-lit heated pool, Hammam suite, sauna and steam rooms, so you can totally unwind.
WHAT TO DO
With the Powerscourt Estate on your doorstep, there is no shortage of activities to try. After a visit to the house and gardens, not to mention a coffee and a sweet treat in their café, make sure not to miss Powerscourt waterfall (Ireland’s highest), while whiskey lovers will love a trip to the Powerscourt Distillery. You can play a round of golf at Powerscourt Golf Club, on your choice of two championship-standard courses, or simply walk or cycle around one of the estate’s many trails.
A one-night stay for two people, including breakfast in Sika Restaurant starts from €181 per person. Powerscourthotel.com
Words by Megan Burns
Number 31
HISTORY
Leeson Street and Fitzwilliam Square might today be mostly known for their grand Georgian buildings, but back in the 1950s and 60s they were the epicentre of Dublin’s nightclub scene. In 1957 architect Sam Stephenson bought what was once the stables of a Fitzwilliam Place townhouse and turned it into his home – a hideaway in this buzzing part of the city. Its sunken lounge is said to have hosted names including Charlie Haughey and Henry Kissinger and had a reputation for the best parties in Dublin.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Today, Number 31 is still a luxurious hideaway, you just no longer need an invite. Full of an impressive collection of 19th and 20th century art, with a George III-style 16-light chandelier over the staircase and that infamous sunken lounge, it still retains the feel of a sumptuous home, except it now has all the conveniences of a boutique hotel. Each bedroom has a plush, contemporary design, and laid-back touches including an honesty bar and friendly staff will make you feel right at home.
HIGHLIGHTS
The breakfast at Number 31 is famous, and consistently raved about by guests. With a choice of places to enjoy it, from the conservatory to the relaxed, communal tables inside, it includes delights such as homemade granola, poached pears in vanilla syrup, cranberry and orange nut loaf and delicious filled omelettes.
WHAT TO DO
Just a short stroll from St Stephen’s Green, you won’t be short of ideas to fill your time. Wander around the Royal Hibernian Academy of Arts, the National Gallery or the National Museum then after lunch in your pick of Dublin’s cafés, make time for a spell of shopping. Or make the most of a bright spring day with a walk along the Grand Canal, just metres from the hotel. End the day with dinner and drinks in the city centre – your only problem will be narrowing down where to go.
A one-night stay for two people, including breakfast, starts at €134. Number31.ie
Words by Megan Burns
A version of this article originally appeared in the Spring 2024 issue of IMAGE.
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