Deals of the day
Boutique Hotel Die Alpbacherin
The history of DER ALPBACHERIN began in the former Angelika house. Some time ago, in the middle of Alpbach, at house number 405, stood the small bed and breakfast “Haus Angelika”. Georg and Lisa ran them with a lot of love. The success proved you right and so the desire for a new place for more guests was born. A dream came true. Together with daughter Valentina and her boyfriend Thomas, plans, dreams and…
Cocos Hotel Antigua
Perched on a lush green hillside, encircled by miles of heavenly blue sea and sandwiched between two gorgeous white sand beaches is COCOS Hotel, an all inclusive Antigua resort for couples and adults only. This rustic yet romantic and cozy boutique resort is located on the sunset side of the beautiful Caribbean Island of Antigua and comprises of a collection of 35 quaint wooden Cottages positioned on a pictoresque…
Relais Borgo Santo Pietro
Situated in the heart of Tuscany, Relais Borgo Santo Pietro was once a healing stopover for medieval pilgrims. Today it continues to provide a sanctuary for modern souls, merging a 5 star luxury hotel and spa concept with a ‘farm to plate’ philosophy on a 300-acre estate. A sumptuous feeling of home pervades the 800-year-old luxury farmhouse hotel, with its worn leather armchairs pulled up around open fires, fresh flower…
Villa Principe Leopoldo Lugano
Live in a fairy tale, surrounded by prestige and nature. Imagine contemplating Lugano’s beauty in a princely residence. The former private home of German Emperor Wilhelm’s brother in law, the Villa is located on a picturesque promontory called the Collina d’Oro (Golden Hill), whose views and location are the best kept secret in town. If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to live in a legendary home, a stay…
Piccolo Hotel Portofino
Hotel Piccolo Portofino, surrounded by the typical luxuriant vegetation of the Liguria Riviera, among the crystal clear water of Portofino and the blue sky, is a piece of art of the reception, unique of its kind. A hidden jewel, that has to be searched end discovered. Obtained from a refined period villa, today it is a boutique hotel, and from its generous terraces, a breathtaking view onto this exclusive stretch of coast…
Cavo Tagoo Santorini
The exclusive Cavo Tagoo Santorini, twin of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos is located within walking distance from Fira and just a few kilometers from Oia, the resort offers luxurious suites, spectacular sunsets over the sea and a personalized service exceptional. All Suites are modern and feature a hot tub or private pool on the terrace style, design details, 43-inch LCD satellite TV, patio or terrace with stunning panoramic view…
Mnemba Island Lodge
Steeped in culture and history, Zanzibar enticed adventurers, seafarers and traders from far and wide. Known as the spice island, from the centuries old trade of cloves, nutmeg and cinnamon, today the Zanzibar Archipelago is still bathed in the heady scents of spices and traditional dhows still drift across the horizon. A romantic hideaway, Mnemba Island is an exclusive paradise featuring twelve rustically chic beachside…
Villa Belvedere Taormina
Hotel Villa Belvedere is a delightful and charming boutique hotel, located at just a few minutes from Taormina’s lively town centre and from the world-famous Greek-Roman Theatre, which are both reachable by walking through the inspiring and panoramic Duca di Cesarò Botanic Gardens. The hotel benefits of wonderful views over the sea, the bay of Naxos and Mount Etna. The hotel has always been…
Château de La Chèvre d’Or
Nature is everywhere at Château de la Chèvre d’Or. There are lots of different gardens filled with sculptures, fountains, waterfalls, flowers, herbs, trees and shrubs. The area is perfumed with the scents of jasmine, bougainvillea and roses. The magnificent colors create a framework that blends into the horizon and the sea…
Palazzo Navona Rome
The innovative Palazzo Navona Hotel fully deserved of its role as being amongst one of the most qualified 4 star Hotels within the city “centro”, capable of fulfilling its own lifestyle qualities to satisfy even the most demanding guest. The intimate and charming ambience emits a feeling of almost magic by creating a special atmosphere which pervades this residence surrounded by its historical-art and ancient Roman…
Il San Pietro Di Positano
The San Pietro di Positano is more than a hotel. It is a journey within a journey, where memories are created and never forgotten. A haven of peace, immersed in nature, this elegant home harmonises old-world traditions of hospitality with contemporary, understated luxury. Escape to this small slice of paradise suspended between the sea and sky. Carved into the cliff overlooking the mediterranean Sea, our rooms are a…
Casa Casuarina Miami
Casa Casuarina was built in 1930 by Alden Freeman. Alden Freeman’s father, Joel Freeman was Treasurer of The Standard Oil Trust (also known as Rockefeller’s Company) and left Alden a fabulous wealth when he passed away. That gave the young and wealthy Alden the opportunity to retire at the age of 27 from being an architect and travel all over the world. Alden was also a descendent of the Mayflower on his mother’s side…
Aria Hotel Budapest
The Aria Hotel Budapest is a luxury boutique hotel with an exquisite design inspired by music. To compliment the musical concept, master designer Zoltan Varro’s vision was to simultaneously recreate the rich, lavish atmosphere of a historic Hungarian palace while also embracing visitors in the warmth and comfort of a private residence…
Azulik Tulum
In the heart of the Mayan jungle, a revolutionary project is about to redefine human evolution. A new vision of the future that is guided by ancestral knowledge and creates community is beginning to shape up.The VILLAS of AZULIK Tulum are built in harmony with the Mayan jungle and the Caribbean Sea. With no electric light, A/C, or television, we present nature as our main amenity, setting the perfect mood for a…
Laucala Island Fiji
A private island refuge in the South Pacific, Laucala unites dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and white sandy beaches with unparalleled levels of luxury and privacy. No expense has been spared at the exclusive tropical hideaway, where 25 Fijian-styled villas are set amid coconut plantations, beside deserted beaches and atop the island’s volcanic mountains, overlooking fertile coral reefs and endless jungle. Style and…
Kudadoo Private Island
Kudadoo’s renowned eco-consciousness and sleek design extend to the Maldives island’s 15 over-water residences where your uninterrupted enjoyment of the private island charm and the splendid natural surrounds are the norm….
Royal Mansour Marrakech
The Royal Mansour can be counted amongst the few establishments in the world that defy hotel excellence. Just a few steps away from the famous Jemaa El Fna square beats the heart of the Marrakesh Palace, offering travellers the unique concept of a medina within a medina.
Each area has been designed to intuitively take guests on a sensory journey. Take a step into the secret and sumptuous history of one of the…
Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery
In search for unique places, sometimes you need to get off the main roads. However, let them lead you to Bale, Istria. Then slow down and follow the road that gets narrower with every mile, as nature draws closer. Slow down even more, and then make a turn into the white road. As the iron gates of the Meneghetti estate open up in front of you, stop for just one moment – and realize that the magic actually appears off the…
Cliveden House
Cliveden House is a privately owned 5 Red Star award-winning hotel, and sister to the world-renowned Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa in Hampshire. Our story is one of over 350 years of powerful personalities, iconic parties and scandalous affairs. Built in 1666 by the 2nd Duke of Buckingham, as a gift to his mistress, Cliveden House has remained a pinnacle of…
Bawah Reserve
A gorgeous tropical paradise surrounded by a blue ocean, Bawah Reserve sits in sheltered seclusion 160 nautical miles (300km) northeast of Singapore in the remote Anambas Archipelago, Indonesia. This pristine and previously uninhabited marine conservation area is surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, which cater to outdoor adventurers looking to indulge as well as those looking to relax in paradise…
Il Sereno Como
Il Sereno brings a new era of luxury to the banks of Italy’s iconic Lake Como. Awarded the title of “Most Anticipated New Luxury Hotel Opening in 2016” by Luxury Travel Advisor magazine, Il Sereno’s ethos of understated elegance presents a freshness to this well-established destination. Designed by Patricia Urquiola, Wallpaper* Magazine Designer of The Year 2015, the all-suite hotel promises modern style and an authentic…
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris
La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris, a 5-star hotel in the centre of Paris, offers you a unique stay in a typically Parisian atmosphere. The building was built in 1907 by the Hennessy family, during the enchanting interlude offered by the Paris of the “Belle Époque”. Reflecting this magical era, our luxury hotel in Paris embodies a certain French art de vivre. La Clef Champs-Élysées Paris enjoys an idyllic setting and immerses you in the…
Juma Amazon Lodge
With its prime location in one of the most remote and preserved regions of the Amazon Rainforest, Juma Amazon Lodge is an intimate and inviting property harmoniously nestled into the forest environment which defines it. Juma Amazon Lodge features 19 intimate bungalows seamlessly nestled into the lush surroundings of the Amazon Rainforest. In order to accommodate the water levels of the wet season…
Gecko Hotel & Beach Club Formentera
In the beautiful and protected island of Formentera, Gecko Hotel & Beach Club was set out for like-minded individuals to unwind, connect with oneself and nature and above all celebrate life. Gecko brings to Formentera a new form of hospitality that unites our love for the island, the beach life and the elegance of a time in the past that continues to inspire us. Our clublike restaurant, in front of the Migjorn beach, offers a…
The Merchant Hotel Belfast offers unparalleled five-star service and the height of luxury in the heart of Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter. The rich history and heritage of our grade
A listed building is complemented by a wealth of modern, multi-award winning facilities and services with every comfort the modern traveller could wish for. We look forward to welcoming you to your home from home in Belfast.
Remarkable heritage and modern luxury await guests of the hotel. Highly appointed bedrooms offer every comfort. Our three restaurants are home to some of the best food in the city and the multi-award-winning Cocktail Bar is the perfect spot for whiling away the afternoon as you enjoy a perfectly crafted cocktail. With a luxurious spa, a rooftop hot tub and many more amenities to enjoy, you may not want to leave the hotel.
The Merchant Hotel is conveniently located in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, in the heart of the city. Spanning most of a city block, the hotel’s main entrance can be found on Skipper Street. The Great Room Restaurant can be accessed directly via Waring Street and Berts Jazz Bar’s main entrance is on High Street.
The Merchant is within walking distance of a host of Belfast attractions including Titanic Belfast, The MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre), St. Anne’s Cathedral and The Waterfront Hall, as well as the main shopping areas.
THE HISTORY
The Merchant Hotel has long been admired for its distinctive architectural style, both in its former life as the headquarters of the Ulster Bank and now, in its current incarnation as a five-star luxury hotel.
This formidable sandstone structure was purpose built as the headquarters of the Ulster Bank. The site was originally acquired in 1836. However, the decision to build was not taken until 1857.
Bank Directors Robert Grimshaw and James Heron visited Glasgow and Edinburgh to glean as much information as possible on the best banking buildings. It was their wish that the building should appear elegant, substantial and prosperous.
The location was deemed suitable as it was in the heart of Belfast’s mercantile and commercial centre. In fact, Waring Street derives its name from a successful local merchant William Waring.
For the creation of the Ulster Bank headquarters, the directors felt the work should be undertaken by an innovative architect. Over sixty proposals were submitted to the bank’s committee and £100 was offered for the best design.
In the end the design of a talented Glaswegian by the name of James Hamilton was selected. The building work was undertaken by Messer’s D and J Fulton, while the spectacularly ornate plasterwork in the main banking hall was carried out by Belfast man George Crowe.
The exterior of the building is Italianate in style. Sculptures depicting Commerce, Justice and Britannia, look down benignly from the apex of the magnificent façade.
Under the grand central dome of the main banking hall (now The Great Room Restaurant), fruit and foliage designs surround the walls in a magnificent frieze. Four Corinthian columns frame the room and feature plump putti (cherub-like figures) depicting science, painting, scripture and music.
Generosity of proportions and an ornate but not ostentatious style throughout the building has ensured that it is one of the most renowned and best loved buildings in Belfast. When the designs were first shown at the 1858 London Architectural Exhibition, the literary magazine Athenaeum described them as “very commendable, earnest, massive, rich and suitable”.
Writing more than a century later, founding member of the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society C.E.B. Brett said the building offered “every inducement to linger and ponder on wealth and its advantages”.
The Ulster Bank headquarters were transformed into the five-star Merchant Hotel in 2006. The original Grade A listed building was then greatly enhanced in the summer of 2010 by the addition of a £16.5 million extension featuring a wealth of new facilities for guests. Thanks to local historian Raymond O’Regan for some of the historical information referenced in this section.
VICTORIAN SUITES
All of the suites at The Merchant Hotel are situated in the original Grade A listed building. They have been thoughtfully designed to epitomise the magnificence of the High Victorian period.
Generously proportioned, each of our suites offers a lavish array of period features and luxurious furnishings; from the four-poster bed in the Seamus Heaney Suite to the marble fireplaces of the C.S Lewis and Brian Friel suites. A sumptuous stay in one of The Merchant’s five elegant suites is a taste of true luxury.
VICTORIAN LOFT SUITES
Discreet and full of character, these charming rooms offer the same elegant style as our Victorian deluxe rooms but with the added advantage of a separate bedroom and living room offering an abundance of space in which to relax.
With original features, antique furniture and textiles, these rooms capture the essence and grandeur of our listed building and provide a spacious and versatile sanctuary decorated in the Merchant’s iconic Victorian style.
VICTORIAN ROOMS
Immerse yourself in Victorian splendour in one of our highly appointed bedrooms in the original Grade A listed building. Designed to reflect the elegance of the Victorian period, these bedrooms are full of character and all feature bespoke furnishings, antique mirrors and works of art.
Our Victorian bedrooms boast luxurious Queen or Super-King Size pillow top beds as well as generously proportioned bathrooms featuring large tub baths with rainfall showers. Our Victorian bedrooms also feature a wealth of modern amenities to ensure the comfort of your stay.
ART DECO ROOMS
The glamour of the Art Deco period is encapsulated by our Deco bedrooms. Spacious and filled with light, these elegant bedrooms all feature furniture from iconic designers of the period, including Eileen Grey and Le Corbusier, as well as specially commissioned works of art.
The majority of our bedrooms boast luxurious super-king size, pillow-top beds as well as generously proportioned bathrooms with walk-in showers and large tub baths. As with our Victorian bedrooms, a wealth of modern amenities will ensure the comfort of your stay.
THE GREAT ROOM
The Great Room Restaurant lies at the heart of The Merchant Hotel. Experience fine dining at its best in this stunning space with its original Victorian interior, glass cupola and truly remarkable chandelier.
Our chefs search tirelessly to create innovate menus featuring the finest seasonal ingredients, which has resulted in the restaurant being awarded 2 AA Rosettes – one of the most prestigious honours granted for culinary excellence. All this is complemented by an extensive 200+ bottle wine list and expert service.
The Great Room Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. We highly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment, especially for weekend bookings and afternoon tea.
THE CLOTH EAR
The Cloth Ear provides patrons with a pleasing twist on the quintessential Irish Pub. Nestled in the oldest quarter of Belfast, The Cloth Ear has woven a rich seam of wonderful Victorian heritage into what is ultimately a thoroughly modern experience. At The Cloth Ear the welcome is warm and the atmosphere lively. Join us as we reintroduce the gentle art of conversation.
An inventive drinks list combines classic creations and innovative ideas. From punch bowls to hoptails and wine by the keg, a carefully crafted an eclectic array of drinks will quench your thirst, tickle your tastebuds and get the conversation flowing.
Our cleverly curated food offering changes regularly to reflect the very best in seasonal, local produce. At The Cloth Ear we are story tellers and we look forward to hearing your story too. No shaggy dogs, no braggarts, no windbags. Just tall tales, short stories and open minds.
BERTS JAZZ BAR
Take a seat in Belfast’s only dedicated jazz bar, soak up the sophisticated atmosphere and let the cool jazz melodies wash over you. Our extensive drinks selection features an expertly crafted cocktail list to complement our superb 1 AA Rosette restaurant which showcases a French bistro style menu that changes regularly to reflect the best of each season.
AFTERNOON TEA
When we first opened our doors at The Merchant Hotel, we were excited to reintroduce our sumptuous afternoon tea to the city of Belfast after decades of absence. Since then, our quintessential afternoon tea has garnered a reputation as a “must do” experience to enjoy when visiting the city. We don’t claim to have invented afternoon tea, but we are proud to say we have perfected it.
The breath-taking surroundings of The Great Room Restaurant boast a wealth of original Victorian features. This complements the refined and discreet service, welcoming atmosphere and decadently delicious afternoon tea.
The Great Room Restaurant offers Afternoon Tea in Belfast’s grandest dining room. We highly recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment, especially for weekend bookings.
Take your time to savour every mouth-watering moment. Our afternoon tea provides all the traditional elements you would expect from a proper afternoon tea: delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, sweet and savoury treats and a magnificent selection of patisseries that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palette.
At the heart of the Merchant’s afternoon tea is an unsurpassed level of food innovation. Our dynamic team of patisserie chefs travel the world and bring their delicious discoveries home to The Merchant.
Needless to say an elegant tea should be at the heart of your experience (but we won’t be offended if you prefer something else). From a rich Oolong to our refreshing Merchant Blend, you will find teas to suit all tastes in our extensive tea selection. As well as our traditional afternoon tea, we are pleased to offer Cocktail Afternoon Tea and Champagne Afternoon Tea for an extra touch of decadence.
THE COCKTAIL BAR
This beautiful room has many wonderful original architectural features. Antique Baccarat chandeliers and a stunning antique fire complement the design. The Bar at The Merchant serves an impeccable selection of exceptional drinks.
From rare spirits to vintage Champagnes – not to mention a cocktail list of timeless classics and in-house creations, this extensive offering allows us to cater to all tastes – no matter how diverse. Our knowledgeable staff will be pleased to help you with your selection.
PRIVATE DINING
At The Merchant Hotel we offer a wide range of private dining options to suit all occasions and all tastes and budgets. From intimate family gatherings to large business meetings, we can tailor-make menus, create bespoke cocktails and craft the perfect ambiance for every event. From sleek Art Deco elegance to opule
CHAMPAGNE LOUNGE
Designed to reflect the iconic signature brand colours of Veuve Clicquot Champagne, the lounge features bespoke wool carpeting, decadent black velvet sofas and chairs as well as a stunning antique fireplace, ormolu tables and ornate gilt mirrors.
Floor-to-ceiling windows on two sides provide excellent natural light. A fully stocked bar makes this the perfect self-contained space for intimate and elegant private events. In consideration of the design of this charming room, what better place to start than with Veuve Clicquot’s company motto; only one quality, the finest.
WEDDINGS
Situated in the historic heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, The Merchant Hotel provides the grandeur of a stately home with the convenience of a city centre location. The timeless elegance of both the Victorian and Deco wings of The Merchant Hotel are complemented by all of the contemporary facilities you would expect from a five-star hotel.
We have 62 sumptuous bedrooms, three fabulous restaurants – from fine dining to relaxed and cosy; a luxurious spa and a host of options for a tipple or two. We also offer a wealth of diverse locations for photography to capture the magic of your big day.
From gloriously romantic or dreamily intimate, your dedicated Merchant wedding specialist will work with you from start to finish crafting your dream day and remaining committed to making your wedding perfect.
BUSINESS
Our elegant Meetings and Events space offers a versatile portfolio of spaces for both intimate and large-scale events. With state-of-the-art facilities and natural daylight in every room, our 16-person boardroom is ideal for smaller meetings or private dining, while our Rita Duffy room is perfect for conferences or dinners for up to 150 guests.
THE SPA
Experience an unexpected, stunning and hidden destination spa in the heart of Belfast city centre. With five treatment rooms, a relaxation room and hydrotherapy area*, this restful space is a quiet haven away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Open to residents and non-residents alike, The Merchant Spa has been thoughtfully designed to create a restorative environment to promote physical well-being and a state of calm. In this tranquil space, your senses are stimulated through sensual aromas, gentle music and wonderful treatments leaving you deeply relaxed and restored.
THE GYM
The Gym at The Merchant Hotel provides members and guests with an excellent range of equipment and facilities. It boasts a state-of-the-art strength and conditioning suite including a substantial range of free weights and functional training equipment.
These facilities are complemented by a sleek Art Deco design, panoramic city views and a fabulous thermal area which includes a rock sauna, steam room and a rooftop hot tub overlooking the river Lagan, the iconic Albert Clock and beyond to the world renowned cranes of Harland and Wolfe shipyard. Our changing rooms include complimentary toiletries and towels. The Gym is open daily and is open for members and hotel guests.
