If you're a fan of quiet, discreet hotels like The Inn at Irving Place in New York City, you'll love The Merrion in Dublin.   

Located just off Upper Merrion Street, home to some of the best examples of Georgian architecture in the city, it would be all too easy to walk past the hotel without a second glance. The hotel is housed in four converted townhouses, and only a small brass sign indicates it's a hotel.

Hands down, it's the best place to stay in Dublin, but the hotel could face some serious competition when The Shelbourne re-opens after its renovation.  

There's an old world elegance pervading the Merrion, from the doorman sporting a cape and top hat, to the crackling fireplace and oil paintings in the ground level drawing rooms. The clientele is well-heeled, and you're more likely to see guests in pin-striped suits and understated tweed than the latest bling-bling fashion. It's drawing rooms, where afternoon tea is served, is popular with the city's power brokers. It's also a favorite spot for local designer Louise Kennedy, known for her understated clothing. Her townhouse-showroom is just a few doors down from hotel.  

The Merrion's buildings are all Grade One-listed, and the interiors combine Georgian elegance with modern conveniences. The 145 rooms are spread out over the four townhouses, and there's also a new garden wing, where guestrooms overlook a formal box garden. This being Dublin, the centerpiece is a statue of James Joyce.   

Rooms are spacious and still have original Georgian features, with Rococco plasterwork and generously proportioned windows. Some of the suites still have original marble fireplaces. The color palette is soothing pale colors, such as pale mossy green and cream. Bathrooms are tiled in black and white marble. My only complaint is that the rooms can be quite dark, which is great for a romantic stay, but inconvenient the rest of the time. 

Dublin is known for its shopping and its pubs, and both are just on the Merrion's doorstep. Grafton Street is just a short walk away, and closer to the hotel are many independent boutiques.

If the weather is bad, you'll be tempted to stay indoors all day and there's plenty to do all under one roof, from a spa to sipping a Guinness. The focal point of the Tethra spa is an 18 meter- long swimming pool. There's also a steam room, sauna and treatment rooms for further pampering. If you'd rather flex your muscles by picking up a pint, head to the subterranean Cellar Bar, where Bono has been spotted a few times, even though he's part owner of The Clarence hotel across town. 

 
The Merrion is also home to Dublin's only two-star Michelin restaurant, Patrick Guilbaud. The menu is modern European and Guilbaud focuses on fresh Irish produce. Highlights include a marbled terrine of rabbit, foie gras, morels and figs;  Irish lobster baked in sea salt; and roast loin of spring Wicklow lamb. Prices are high, expect to pay around €38 euros for a starter up to €110 euros for the lobster. For those who'd rather spend their euros on Grafton Street, there's also a two-course lunch menu for €33.

Rates start at €370.

The Merrion
Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2,
Ireland
Phone: + 353 1 603 0600

www.merrionhotel.com