Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa is a very new hotel, in fact when I visited it had been open just two weeks. In that short time they have impressed, not only the Hotel Reviews Ireland team, but also, it seems also countless guests from near and far.

So what is their secret? Realistically speaking, there are several secrets, all professionally blended together to create a great hotel.
Firstly, the design. We loved the bright roomy contemporary interior, and then were bowled over by the restoration of the original castle.

Now, here’s the history – the original floorboards that carry you through this house have carried many of the most influential people in Irish history. Dunboyne Castle came into the famous Butler family through the marriage of Thomas (died 1329) to Synolda, daughter of William le petit, 6th Lord of Dunboyne.

Cromwell destroyed the castle and the present castle was built in the 1700’s. The next couple of hundred of years were fascinating history (you will have to stay here to find out all about it) but it did become home to the Good Shepard Sisters until 1991, and then in 1999 came to its present owners.

For today’s guest, this hotel has many things in its favour. It gives you a taste of the country, while still being almost within the boundaries of Dublin and only twenty minutes from the airport. We had a fabulous room, every detail was covered - the bed linen, the toiletries, the free broadband access, the separate shower and bath, the space and the views.

Although very much the new kid on the block, we found Dunboyne Castle to be buzzing. There were plenty of social and business meetings going on in the spacious lounge and reception areas, and dinner was excellent. Although we were there on a Tuesday, traditionally a quiet night, the restaurant was busy and we enjoyed a great meal. The wine list was particularly inspired.

We did think that if any of us were to get married (some of us not for the first time!), we would love this location. It has the feel of the country, while still remaining beside the city and a short hop from the airport. Ideal for guests from near and afar. That four-poster bed in the suite of the old castle is particularly inviting for the wedding couple.

Then there is Seoid Spa. With eighteen treatment rooms, including plenty of couples rooms, this is the business. They have a full range of top-quality treatments, and the spa time should be booked early. This is deluxe pampering. We loved the spa, and only wished we could have stayed another day to enjoy more.

In a country with so many new hotels for 2006, there are bound to be some that disappoint, but Dunboyne Castle & Spa will certainly not be among them. We will be back!

Source: Hotel Reviews Ireland - The best places to stay in Ireland!