The River Lee Hotel

Some Irish hotels lean heavily on the historical atmosphere, but we’re always happy to find one that’s comfortable acknowledging the passage of time. In the city of Cork, the Irish Republic’s southern seaport, there’s plenty of heritage to hold on to, but there’s also a healthy dose of modern luxury hospitality, if that’s the sort of thing you’re in the market for, in the form of The Doyle Collection’s River Lee Hotel.

No extra points for guessing the name of the river whose banks The River Lee Hotel hugs. It’s a slightly incongruous sight, this sleek modern building on the edge of this storied river, but once inside the interaction between the hotel and its setting becomes clear — there’s a coziness about The River Lee Hotel that’s all too often lost in contemporary-style hotels, and if it’s not too obvious to bother pointing out, there’s nothing better than a big modern picture window for a hotel room with a pretty view.

The River Club, the hotel’s bar, terrace, and restaurant attracts locals and guests alike, and there’s plentiful space for all sorts of gatherings and events. There’s also a fully equipped gym, complete with a 20-meter pool, sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi.