The Cliff Townhouse

"How did it strike you on arrival?The buildings that line St. Stephen's Green are among the most impressive in Dublin—grand Georgian structures with creeping ivy and arched doorways. Today one of these buildings is home to Cliff Townhouse, a small hotel that feels almost like a restaurant with rooms. The seafood served in the beautiful dining room is some of the best in town, and the marble-topped Oyster and Champagne Bar is the perfect spot for knocking back a half-dozen oysters and a screaming-cold glass of bubbly. Nice. What’s the crowd like?Dublin’s media and PR darlings, business power players, and couples. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Four of Cliff's nine rooms overlook the park—obviously these are the ones to go for. Light-filled thanks to large sash windows, they're outfitted with plaid pillows, Donegal tweed blankets, and padded velvet headboards. Bathrooms are simple, with vintage faucets, marble fittings—you won’t be standing in the shower wondering which of the zillion switches turns any of it on—and Damana toiletries. How about any other notable details?As an eco-friendly touch, each room features refillable glass water bottles. Room service and food: Worth it?There’s no room service or mini bar, but you don’t have to wander far to get a bite to eat. All rooms have Nespresso machines and old-fashioned tea kettles. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whatever stuck with you.Two options: the classic restaurant in the main house, or Urchin, a newish basement restaurant that serves quirky tapas and cocktails, are both ideal when you're craving a bite to eat. Bottom line: worth it, and why?This is a visually stunning property inside and out. Treat yourself to a lengthy meal in the restaurant, then stumble up to your pillow-soft bed for the best night’s sleep you’ve had in years." - Nicola Brady