Slieve Donard Resort and Spa Hotel – Newcastle – Co Down – UK and Eire

Just returned from umpteenth weekend break in this hotel. Right on the sea in Newcastle, Co. Down & adjacent to the famous Royal Co Down golf course, with the Mourne mountains as a spectacular backdrop. Wonderful atmosphere, summer & winter, & the recently refurbished spa is superb.

Rooms big & comfortable. Great for golf, hill walking, or just general indulgence. They really look after their guests in a way you just don’t get in most places these days. All things considered, this would be our favorite Northern Ireland hotel.

Just one quibble would be the price, choice, & ordinariness of the evening restaurant menu, out of the keeping with the rest of the hotel experience, as breakfast & the Sunday carvery is excellent. Fortunately the last few years have seen excellent restaurants spring up nearby (probably why) like the recently opened Vanilla, 5 minutes walk away.

Top class, but you need to book 028 437 22268. Also try the Chowder House & Vina Vinci, just 5 minutes walk from the hotel as well. We cannot speak highly enough of this establishment, and will be returning for our next holiday.