A selection of the best luxury hotels in Cork, Ireland. A selection by Laura Becker
Fota Island Hotel and Spa
Experience luxury and convenience at the 5-star Fota Island Hotel, located just 8 miles from Cork City. Enjoy the 18-hole championship golf course, a swimming pool, and views of the countryside from stylishly designed rooms. Each room includes flat-screen satellite TVs, free Wi-Fi, an interactive video system, mini-bars, seating areas and bathrooms with walk-in showers and bathrobes. The Fota Restaurant provides fine traditional and international cuisine, while the terrace is perfect for al fresco dining. Afternoon tea and cocktails can be enjoyed in the relaxed atmosphere of the Amber Lounge and The Spike Bar. 18 treatment rooms offer guests massages, hydrotherapy, and thermal suites. The state-of-the-art gym is ideal for working out. Fota Wildlife Park is a 5-minute walk away. Cork Airport is a 20-minute drive from the hotel.
Rooms: 131 Stars: 5
Check availabilityThe River Lee Hotel a member of The Doyle Collection
Situated just a 5-minute stroll from the heart of Cork, the River Lee Hotel provides a luxurious haven on the banks of the River Lee. Boasting air-conditioned rooms, a bistro, and secure on-site car parking, the spacious rooms are adorned with light colours and modern fabrics, equipped with a flat-screen TV, free internet access, a power shower and underfloor heating. The River Club Bar, Terrace and The Grill Room offer a glamorous atmosphere to eat, drink and socialise. For those looking to stay active, NRG Fitness provides a gym and regular fitness classes. Meanwhile, attractions such as St Finnbar’s Cathedral, Beamish Brewery and Cork Opera House are all within easy reach.
Rooms: 182 Stars: 4
Check availabilityThe Montenotte Hotel
Boasting fantastic city views, The Montenotte Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel situated just one mile from the vibrant city centre of Cork. With tranquil surroundings, the hotel offers spacious, modern rooms with en suite bathrooms, TVs, hairdryers, irons and tea/coffee making facilities. Wi-Fi is available in public areas and apartments are serviced fortnightly. The Panorama Bistro & Terrace provides breathtaking views and a full a la carte menu, as well as afternoon tea. The hotel also features superb leisure facilities, including a gymnasium, sauna and hot tub, as well as a 20-metre pool where aquarobics and swimming lessons can be taken. For those looking for a unique experience, The Montenotte has an in-house cinema, where films are shown nightly. The shops, theatres and Beamish Brewery of Cork are just a 15-minute walk away, while the world-famous Blarney###FINA.
Rooms: 108 Stars: 4
Check availabilityThe Kingsley Hotel
The Kingsley Hotel is located on the South Bank of the River Lee in Cork. It offers an unrivalled luxury experience, with a modern health club, an organic spa, an indoor pool and 8 business suites. The individually decorated rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, satellite TV, tea and coffee making facilities, free WiFi, an en suite bathroom with a hairdryer, bathtub and shower. Many of the rooms feature stunning river views. Guests can enjoy a classic afternoon tea by the river or dine in one of the two unique restaurants. The hotel is just 280 metres away from Cork University, 15 minutes’ walk from Cork’s city centre, 2.2 km away from Saint Fin Barre’s Cathedral, 4 km away from Cork Kent Railway Station and 5.38 km away from Frankfield Golf Club.
Rooms: 131 Stars: 4
Check availabilityImperial Hotel Cork City
Imperial Hotel, situated in the centre of Cork city, is the ultimate luxury destination. Just a stone’s throw away from the main shopping district and nightlife, the hotel has air-conditioned rooms and Escape Spa. Each room is equipped with modern amenities including smart TVs, free WiFi, Nespresso machines and toiletries. Enjoy delicious cocktails and food at Sketch restaurant and Lafayette’s. Unwind and relax with a massage, aroma and salt grotto or tropical mist shower at the spa. Nearby attractions such as Kent Train Station, Cork Bus Station, Cork Opera House, Nano Nagle Place, Crawford Art Gallery, Shandon Bells and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral are all within walking distance, while Cork Airport is just a 10-minute drive away.
Rooms: 125 Stars: 4
Check availabilityMaryborough Hotel & Spa
The Maryborough Hotel & Spa is a luxurious 18th-century country house, surrounded by 300-year-old listed gardens. It offers elegant rooms with bathrobes and slippers, a Thermal Suite, a leisure club with a pool, hot tub and steam room, a gym, and the AA Rosette-awarded Bellini’s restaurant. Guests can also enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and scenic garden views from select rooms. Enjoy a gourmet meal at Bellini’s, or relax with snacks and afternoon tea in The Garden Room. Cork is just a 10-minute drive away, and the hotel is the perfect base from which to explore the local area.
Rooms: 93 Stars: 4
Check availabilityCork’s Vienna Woods Hotel & Villas
Experience luxury amidst the breathtaking Glanmire Valley with Cork’s Vienna Woods Hotel & Villas. This boutique hotel offers large and comfortable rooms with baths, showers and free WiFi, as well as a restaurant, free parking and a bar menu. Enjoy a buffet breakfast daily and admire the 18th-century country house and its conservatory, or take a drink on the patio. The hotel is just a 10-minute drive from Cork city centre, and two miles from the Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Golfers will love the proximity to Douglas and Frankfield golf courses. Make your trip to Cork a truly special one with Cork’s Vienna Woods Hotel & Villas.
Rooms: 48 Stars: 4
Check availabilityCork International Hotel
Experience the best of Cork at the Cork International Hotel, directly opposite Cork Airport. Enjoy a complimentary shuttle to the city, just 10 minutes away, and explore the vibrant restaurants, bars and shops. Get comfortable in one of the 140 luxurious bedrooms, 4 apartments or request a balcony room with views of the city, airport and countryside. Enjoy the on-site dining options, from the New Yorker Bar & Bistro to The Atlantic & Pacific Restaurants, and take advantage of the 24-hour room service menu. The hotel also has 8 meeting rooms and a ballroom, plus free overnight parking for guests.
Rooms: 145 Stars: 4
Check availabilityBest areas to find hotels in Cork, Ireland
Cork is a city in Ireland that is known for its lively atmosphere and rich culture. There are lots of places to stay in Cork, from budget hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best areas to search for a hotel in Cork:
1. City Centre: The city centre of Cork is one of the best places to look for a hotel. It is home to many of the city’s top attractions, such as the English Market and St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral. Here, you can find a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments.
2. Southside: The Southside of Cork is home to some of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods. Here, you can find some great restaurants, pubs, and cafes. It is also home to the University College Cork and the Cork Institute of Technology, making it a popular place for students. There are several hotels in this area, including some that offer great value for money.
3. Northside: The Northside of Cork is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. Here, you can find some of the city’s best parks, such as Fitzgerald’s Park and St. Anne’s Park. There are also some great restaurants, pubs, and shops. You can find a range of accommodation options in this area, including some budget-friendly hotels.
4. Harbourside: The Harbourside of Cork is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a waterfront view. Here, you can find some lovely restaurants, pubs, and cafes. There are also some great hotels in this area, including some luxury establishments.
5. Suburbs: The suburbs of Cork are a great place to stay if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. Here, you can find some great parks and gardens, such as the Shandon Park and the Cork City Park. There are also some great hotels in this area, including some that offer great value for money.
No matter what type of accommodation you’re looking for in Cork, you can be sure to find something to suit your needs. There are lots of great hotels in the city, so take your time to explore all the options and find the perfect one for you.