Maryborough Hill, Douglas, Cork, Ireland | (888) 635-3814
Renovated 18th century Georgian manor house set in large private gardens
Impressive spa with numerous thermal spas options and sauna
Health club with large indoor pool and whirlpool
Swish bar with automated wine tasting
Modern, cozy rooms, some with balconies
Free parking on-site
Free Wi-Fi throughout
Room balconies could use a refresh
Popular with weddings (some noise complaints)
Some rooms show odd signs of wear
Spa is divided between men and women
The 93-room Maryborough Hotel and Spa is an upscale spa hotel that has gone to some lengths to preserve and celebrate its period heritage, not least in its wonderful gardens. The spa impresses with ample, and largely free, facilities while the club's indoor pool is larger than most. Sophisticated rooms blend modern and classic decor elements, though some details could use a refresh. Those looking to explore Cork might find the location a bit out the way, so if you'd rather be central, The River Lee Hotel is comparable on rates and amenities.
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Scene
Renovated 18th century manor house set in extensive gardens
Originally built in the 1700s as a country manor house, the Maryborough Hotel and Spa still maintains much of the period feel, especially in its beautiful 300-year-old gardens. The frontage of the Maryborough is a classic example of Georgian architecture, with a wide stone staircase leading up to the unassuming entrance topped with a typical pointed pediment. 18th century chic continues into the lobby, an immaculate mixture of antique furnishings, tasseled drapes, and centerpiece chandelier. However, when the property became a hotel in the early 1990s, a modern extension was added and styled very much in a smart contemporary fashion. It is one of the few privately-owned hotels in Cork, and the mood is luxurious and personal. It attracts a mixture of guests, but typically couples treating themselves to some pampering or celebrating an event.
Location
Set in the quiet, leafy suburbs of Cork in the south of Ireland
The hotel is located in the leafy southeastern suburbs of Cork, in the south of Ireland. Cork city center and its main sights are about four miles away, or a 15-minute drive. Cork Airport is about the same distance, or it is a three-hour drive from Dublin. Golfers have the Douglas Golf Club a five-minute walk away.
Rooms
Contemporary rooms with a few classic touches; many have balconies overlooking the gardens
The hotel has 93 rooms, most of which have trendy contemporary style mixed with few traditional touches. Decor varies a bit between categories, but some rooms have trendy Art Deco influences (such as a settee with a geometric print or a retro-chic purple desk chair); more classic details may include bed drapery or antique furniture. The feel is predominantly modern, and most rooms have a sophisticated mix of purple fabrics and light woods. In-room amenities include large flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee facilities. Bathrooms are modern with shower/tub combos, though they lack any special features. Many rooms open to furnished patios or balconies that overlook the garden, though some could use a refresh. Suites are particularly lavish, and spa rooms with big whirlpool tubs also look quite special.
Features
Impressive spa and swish bar with automated wine tasting
The spa and health club are the main attractions at this hotel, especially the large indoor pool with separate hot tub. The spa's thermal suites also stand out -- including Roman-style saunas, aromatic steam baths, and vitality pools -- and unlike many other hotels, guests are not charged extra to access them. The Bellini's restaurant provides fine dining, while its swish bar has a novel temperature controlled wine dispensing cabinet where you can swipe a prepaid card and sample multiple wines. Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and there is also ample parking on-site.
