Every now and again, it's important to treat yourself and what better way to do so than staying in one of the country's swankiest hotels?

Whether they offer luxurious rooms, delicious dining, stunning views, or other fabulous perks like award-winning spas, there's a reason why these hotels are the creme de la creme.

If you're in the mood for splurging and pampering, here are the Irish hotels you should check out.

 

Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny

The Lyrath in Kilkenny consists of a luxurious hotel & spa and convention centre. It's built on 170 acres of parkland which incorporate picturesque lakes, historic gardens and luscious woodlands.

The Estate boasts 139 unique bedrooms and the spa is multi-award-winning. Other upsides include its acclaimed fine cuisine at two restaurants and bars, family friendliness and indoor infinity pool.

Prices for a room PPS start at €85.50.

 

The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney

It doesn't get much swankier than The Europe. The five-star hotel overlooks the lakes of Killarney and has a premium spa, ESPA. From the resort, you can view Killarney's largest lake, Loch Léin, and the surrounding stunning McGillycuddy Reeks mountain range.

Aside from spa treatments, a whole bunch of leisure activities are available on the extensive grounds. These include golf, horse riding, boating and fishing, walking and hiking, tennis, swimming, and gym activities.

Prices start from €275 for a room.

 

Monart, Enniscorthy

The five-star Monart Spa was once named in Conde Nast Traveller's 'Top Spas in the World' and deemed 'Ireland’s Favourite Spa' two years in a row. So if you want one of the best spa experiences going globally, it doesn't get better than this.

An array of treatments are on offer and within its spa thermal suite are a sauna, steam room, outdoor Finnish Sauna, salt grotto, infra-red pro suite, caldarium, sanarium and hydrotherapy pool.

For accommodation, the 18th-century Monart House provides deluxe bedrooms with lake or woodland views situated over 100 acres of countryside in County Wexford.

Prices start at €129 pp. Be warned - it books up super fast.

 

Adare Manor

The multi-award-winning Adare Manor consists of a whopping 840 acres of pristine parkland and, after a multi-million Euro refubishment, is one the most prestigious hotels in the country.

Aside from golf, other activities provided by the manor include fishing, falconry, archery, game shooting, horse riding, cycling, and the Irish Gundog Experience. There's a cinema, a woodland to walk in, a horse-drawn carriage and historical tours too. It's located near the village of Adare which is renowned for its quaint thatched roof cottages, vibrant pubs and antique shops.

Various packages are available for Adare Manor but it is on the scary end of most people's budgets. Prices for a Bed & Breakfast stay start at €650 and can go up to €3850 a night.

 

The River Lee

The River Lee is situated right in the heart of Cork city centre with a beautiful view of - you've guessed it - the river Lee. There's a cool urban bar and a relaxing riverside terrace which is all in bloom at the moment. There's also a Juicery that offers an array of juices and healthy smoothies.

Other perks include a 20m pool and gym with a wide range of classes and facilities, and qualified fitness professionals and therapists available.

Rooms from €209 available.

 

The Marker Hotel, Dublin

The Marker Hotel, based on Grand Canal Square in the docklands of Dublin city centre, offers luxurious suites and rooms as well as spa packages and theatre packages, which incorporate a show at the local Bord Gais Energy Theatre as part of your stay.

Its rooftop bar and terrace offer a stunning view of the city. Plus, there are yoga classes on the rooftop (free for hotel guests) and a Run Concierge service during summer. Other perks this time of year include a BBQ menu on the terrace and themed drinks menus for the likes of Bloom and Wimbledon.

Rooms from €229.

 

The Shelbourne, Dublin

The elegant and stylish Shelbourne hotel is positioned in the heart of Ireland's capital. Its bars and lounges are a popular spot for special occasions but why not spoil yourself and spend the night in one of their exquisite guest rooms or signature suites?

Enjoy some fine dining in the Saddle Room or afternoon tea in the Lord Mayor's Lounge. There's a spa and glamorous salon with a vast menu of bespoke hairdressing and beauty treatments too.

Feeling like being pampered like royalty? You can stay in the Princess Grace suite, inspired by Grace Kelly's visit. You can also brag about staying in the hotel that has accommodated such guests as JFK, Michael Collins, and Éamon de Valera over the years.

Depending on the time of year, prices start at about €430 and can be up to €5000 per night.