One of the most appealing of all Dublin hotels, this large, privately-owned contemporary property is attractively located in an 'urban plaza' near the RDS and the public park after which it is named.
Arriving by car, it is approached over a little bridge on the RDS side of the development, which leads to an underground carpark and to a smart lower ground foyer, where there is a lift up to the main lobby and Reception - an unusually convenient and welcoming 'back entrance' for a large hotel.
The ground floor lobby - the Terrace Lounge - makes a popular meeting place; impressively light and spacious, with excellent light meals and drinks provided by efficient waiting staff, it's comfortably furnished in well spaced groups, allowing for a certain degree of privacy (but does get very busy over lunchtime). The Pavilion Restaurant and well equipped meeting rooms of various sizes all open off this pleasant central area and everything is overseen with quiet efficiency by long time General Manager, Ewan Plenderleith.
The adjacent Herbert Park is a great amenity, especially for business guests, as it offers an opportunity to enjoy quiet outdoor relaxation away form main roads which is unusual in city centre hotels.
The bright and spacious modern style is repeated in the bedrooms, which have views over Ballsbridge and Herbert Park and are stylishly designed and well-finished, with a high standard of amenities including WiFi and security features. Executive rooms have extras including a daily newspaper and tea/coffee delivered to the room (but no in-room hospitality trays).
A good breakfast is served in the Pavilion Restaurant, a bright, elegant, contemporary room that is open for lunch and dinner every day and overlooks a garden terrace (where tables can be set up in fine weather).
Team building, jazz events, golf packages and special breaks are all offered and this is one to consider when attending events as most of the main venues are nearby including the Aviva Stadium (Lansdowne Road) and the Grand Canal Theatre as well as the RDS.
An excellent choice for the business traveller or corporate events as well as private guests, this hotel is reasonably priced for the standard of accommodation and facilities offered, and staff are efficient, enthusiastic and warm.
