Formerly the home of leading architect, the late Sam Stephenson, Noel and Deirdre Comer's hospitable 'oasis of tranquillity and greenery' just off St Stephen's Green has undergone major refurbishment recently, and it makes a relaxing and interesting city centre base, with virtually everything within walking distance in fine weather.
You approach the Georgian townhouse from the garden, and the welcome is warm and friendly (tea/coffee and cookies served as your car is being parked in their secure car park); public areas of the house are spacious and very comfortable, and the accommodation is in two different buildings - the elegant Georgian town-house on Fitzwilliam Place (decorated in deep tones) and the beautifully converted coach-house (much brighter), with an interconnecting patio garden.
The elegant bedrooms have exceptionally comfortable beds, good bathrooms, and nice little extras including complimentary bottled water as well as phones, flat screen TV and DVD player.
And breakfasts, served at communal tables inside, and in the conservatory, are a treat to treasure: juices, fresh fruit and cereals on display, freshly baked breads and delicious preserves, and lovely hot dishes like kippers, Eggs Benedict or scrambled egg with smoked salmon all cooked to order... it has a homely feel, as the kitchen is beside the breakfast room and there is no door, so you can watch as your breakfast is being prepared.
Prices are moderate for central Dublin, and this is a lovely place to stay in fact, with its stay-in-all-day atmosphere, you might find it hard to leave.
Rooms 21 (all en-suite & no smoking). Room rate from €240, ss €25; not suitable for children under 10; no pets; free broadband wi/fi. Rooms at the back are quieter. Secure parking. Open all year. Amex, MasterCard, Visa.
