I recently held a workshop in the lovely Hue Salon Letterkenny; unaccustomed to the area I looked up reviews of suggested places to stay. As you know, whenever I visit a new location overnight I review the experience to hopefully benefit you guys. The Radisson Blu is 4 Star Hotel in the heart of Letterkenny, situated conveniently close to Letterkenny’s best shopping. I say conveniently but really mean dangerously close to the likes of River Island, H&M and TK Maxx. A three hour drive from Dublin later the hotel was nicely signposted and incredibly easy to find; an essential after a decent journey to a previously unexplored location.
Upon arrival we were greeted by a friendly receptionist who ran through the usual information regarding our room and dining options throughout our stay. The hotel itself is nicely lit, spacious and has added touches like an ice dispenser in the corridors leading to your room. I booked into a Business Class Room which is obviously suggested for work travellers who especially appreciate the additional amenities and space.
There were cute cupcakes, chocolate covered strawberries and a welcome note waiting for me alongside some of my favourite fluffy bathrobes and slippers. Personal touches like these always add to your stay and memory of a hotel.
After a quick freshen up we headed downstairs to their AA Rosette Award winning TriBeCa Restaurant serving A La Carte, Table d’hôte and Early Bird menus. Considering I’m on a health kick at the moment I always worry what options a hotel will have, thankfully the TriBeCa offered some really nice light starters and fish dishes.
I opted for the Hallumi salad and Hake; both of which were delicious. If you fancy alternative food and a few drinks during your stay their Port Bar and Grill serves hearty pub favourites and serves an array of wines, craft beers and spirits.
Another thing I look out for in a hotel is a decent gym. The Radisson Blue have a fully equipped gym in the hotel, with cardiovascular machines, an Olympic standard free weights room, swimming pool, sauna and steam room. Unfortunately as we arrived in Letterkenny so late that night and I had my workshop early the next day I didn’t get to avail of the former but hope to the next time I visit.
For those of you with more time looking to explore the landscape and natural surroundings, Letterkenny provide various opportunities for outdoor activities, including boating, surfing and horseback riding. Be sure to enquire at the hotel for information about these fun excursions in northwest Ireland. The hotel is also ideal base to travel Donegal and explore the North West region of the Wild Atlantic Way from the comfort of a four star hotel.
