Welcome back travelers!
If you have been following along my review of our trip through the Republic of Ireland, great!!! If not, you won’t want to miss my review of my very favorite hotel in Dublin and my FAVORITE spot in Ireland (Kilkenny).
After we left Kilkenny we packed up and headed out on our 90-minute drive to Cork. Cork has a TON to do. We did visit family and also spent time touring. I will get into all of the fun spots in Cork, Ireland on my full review. For today, we are reviewing the hotel, The Imperial Hotel & Spa, Cork.
A Warm Welcome in a Perfect Location
Stepping into The Imperial Hotel & Spa felt like walking into a piece of Cork’s rich history. The hotel is wonderfully situated right in the heart of the city, making it an ideal base for exploring local attractions, dining delights, and eclectic shops—all just a stone’s throw away.
We love doing walking tours with local guides. We found that the tours we did in Dublin and Kilkenny were the perfect Segway into the rich history of the Imperial Hotel & Spa in Cork. Make sure you take the time to read all of the history throughout the hotel, it is fascinating!
The Accommodation Experience
Our room, while in need of some updates (part of an ongoing refurbishment effort much needed but highly anticipated), was spotless and provided a cozy refuge after our day-long explorations. The buzzing city might have been right outside, but inside, all was calm and inviting. The staff here deserve a special mention; their warmth and genuine care for guests made our stay even more memorable.
Mornings Done Right
Mornings at the Imperial were a dream, thanks to the delectable included breakfast! The beauty of choice is in starting your day with a lovely continental buffet spread or selecting made-to-order items that catered to every craving. I particularly fell in love with those fresh pastries—irresistibly flaky and fabulous!
Relaxation and Rejuvenation
For those in search of a little more relaxation, the hotel’s spa is a haven. Offering a range of treatments, it is the perfect place to unwind, rejuvenate, and simply enjoy the tranquility.
Navigating the Parking Puzzle
Driving in? Here’s a crucial tip: parking isn’t directly on-site. Pull up at the hotel entrance first, where the wonderful concierge team will assist with your luggage and provide detailed parking directions. With secure spots available at Union Quay (there is a reduced nightly charge) or arranged alternatives, the whole process is seamless with a preferred rate. A quick chat with the concierge ensures you have all the access codes and directions needed—smooth sailing from there!
Explorations Beyond the City
While The Imperial itself was a treasure trove of comfort, adventures beckoned beyond. Our easy day trips to historic sites like Cork County Gaol and the charming town of Cobh added layers to our Cork experience. Keep your eyes peeled for our upcoming full guide detailing these explorations!
Final Impressions
Overall, our stay at The Imperial Hotel & Spa was undeniably charming. The delightful mix of historic allure, exceptional service, and central location makes it a strong contender for anyone visiting Cork. Whether you’re delving deep into local history, savoring city life, or just passing through, this is a stay filled with character and comfort.
Happy travels,
Kelly Ortiz
Do you have questions or ready to plan your next trip? Let’s chat—I’m here to guide you every step of the way! Call me at 630-885-3999 or email me at kelly@thewdwguru.com.