TTeacherTravelTimesI decided to ditch staying in the city centre based on my below par experiences there on my last trip. When looking on Trip.com, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel in Dalkey was the same price as several dorm rooms in the city centre when I looked.
Getting there from Dublin Airport was relatively straightforward. I took and Aircoach from the airport to Dalkey/Ulverton Road and then walked for about 15 minutes. Up to the hotel entrance.
The hotel is fairly old fashioned but personally I found it very charming. The staff were well-trained in the art of hospitality, the rooms were clean, locals were in and out of the bar, restaurant and leisure centre.
Furthermore, the room was spacious with tea and coffee making facilities. The tv had a nice range of channels and the bathroom had a working shower and an abundance of towels. One thing missing was a toothbrush, toothpaste and shaving kit. I was told that you can get slippers on request as well.
Get the breakfast. It’s €16 and it’s a buffet style with a delicious selection of hot and cold food. There’s rashers, sausages, hash browns, pancakes, the works. I wish I could’ve eaten more! I loved that they had a wide range of ages working there as well. One of the staff tripped when she went to ask if everything was ok and she said ‘I’m fine, I’m falling for you!’ It was then that I knew that I was home.
The leisure centre is one of the best I’ve come across in a while. I’ve stayed in so many places where it’s literally an empty room with a few bits of old equipment but they had loads of weights, treadmills, bikes, etc. They do classes and physiotherapy as well. The pool and jacuzzi were also excellent. Plenty of ages in both as well but it wasnt overcrowded so you’ll get a few lengths in if you want.
Lastly, make sure to go for a walk about Dalkey and the surrounding areas. I spent the morning walking down to the Vico Baths, the Forty Foot (both swimming locations) and passed through Dalkey Village. Plenty of people will be out with their family and friends whether it be for a walk, bike ride, swim or a coffee and a chat. Ditch Dublin City and say yes to Dalkey!
ゲゲストThe first room was leaking when rained. Changed to a different room which was quite noisy. But was given breakfast vouchers as compensation.
Staff friendly and helpful.
ゲゲストI recently stayed at the Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin and found its location on O'Connell Street to be exceptionally convenient for exploring Dublin's main attractions. The room was clean and featured a mini-fridge, which was useful for keeping drinks cool.
However, the breakfast experience was underwhelming. The selection lacked variety, and the quality didn't meet expectations. Additionally, the lobby area felt cramped during peak times, making it less inviting for relaxation.
While the hotel's central location is a significant advantage, improvements in breakfast offerings and lobby comfort would enhance the overall guest experience.
AAlexIt was a great stay overall. The location was perfect. It was near the center of Dublin. But was set in a quiet neighborhood just outside it. It is a doable walk to a park set along the water. I loved the Medieval Theme. The staff was friendly. The rooms were spacious and clean. The dual shower heads are a nice setup. .Request a view of the front of the hotel. The only potential negative is the distance from the airport and the train.
ゲゲストAfter I had made my booking I realised I didn’t have breakfast included as was suggested on my booking information I contacted the Conrad hotel and was told if I added breakfast for two on then it would be €25 each if I left it until I booked in to add breakfast it would cost €30 each so I obviously booked it for €25 each but when I finally booked in to the hotel I met a very condescending receptionist who informed me that they don’t do discounts and breakfast was €30 when i explained that it was not a discount she continued to tell me they don’t do discounts and eventually said she would ask her manager and came back with the same information to me at this point I was so embarrassed that I agreed to pay €30 each but when she finally put the booking through it wasn't accepted which at that point another receptionist came to check the computer and could see quite clearly that I had my breakfast booked for €25 and told the other receptionist that it was clearly signed by an appropriate manager so eventually I got booked in but the breakfast I felt was very disappointing as it was the first time ever I was asked to pay €9 extra for anything extra from the breakfast alacart menu which meant if I just wanted poached eggs I had to pay €25 plus €9 I was not impressed the whole issue with the payment for breakfast while trying to book into the hotel and then realising that you had to pay extra for what’s normally on a breakfast menu anyway. No i certainly wouldn’t be going back to the Conrad or recommending it