This St Patrick’s Day, guests at the sleek Anantara The Marker Dublin are in for a weekend of mirth and joviality with a curation of extra-special activations and events to mark the occasion – both within and outside of the hotel. Held in honor of the country’s patron saint, the celebrations observe St Patrick’s death in the fifth century, and with so much to do and see, there is no better time to visit the Fair City.
On the 15th of March, a new, limited-edition menu kicks into effect at the bar, promising quintessential Irish fare accompanied by traditional live music from 8pm. Why not follow up a lunch packed with Irish delicacies with a traditional tipple on the panoramic rooftop terrace, now open at the earlier time of 5pm for enduring festivity.
The next day, all guests checking in are invited to the lobby for complimentary Guinness and oysters in true celebratory fashion. What’s more, a St Patrick’s goody bag awaits, alongside a gorgeous slice of Irish porter cake boasting warm spices and oodles of delicious, dried fruit. Those enjoying breakfast may do so at a leisurely pace, with Irish treats up for grabs at the buffet – with extended opening hours until 11am. If that’s not enough, guests are also encouraged to don Shamrocks, available at the hotel’s front office.
Come evening, soak up the stylish, innovative energy of the surrounding Docklands area and head to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, steps away from the hotel, for the Irish National Opera’s take on Salome, one of Richard Strauss’ most compelling operas complete with lust, death, and thrills galore. Not your thing? Head to Collins Barracks, temporarily transformed into the Festival Quarter, to make the most of the weekend’s celebrations, with live events going on from themed walking tours, orchestral performances, yoga classes, art exhibitions, flea markets, food stalls and family art workshops held all around the city. Then catch 40 winks in one of Anantara The Marker’s recently refurbished bedrooms boasting views across the cityscape, the Dublin and Wicklow Mountains and Dublin Bay.
On Sunday, it’s time to experience the atmosphere of the world-famous St. Patrick’s Festival Parade where hundreds of thousands are set to line the route, filled with colourful floats, performers, and world-class marching bands. Afterwards, why not head out on the hotel’s ‘Spice Spoons’ experience in the nearby fishing village of Howth via one of the country’s most scenic train routes by car. On arrival, you’ll sail around Dublin Bay on a fishing boat with potential spottings of seals, puffins, and falcons, before heading back to the dock for a stop off at Kish Fish, home to one of Ireland’s most prestigious salmon smokehouses. Top it all off with a cooking class led by Executive Chef Gareth Mullins back at the hotel, where guests can try their hand at baking Irish soda bread from a top-secret recipe.
Rooms at Anantara The Marker Dublin in this period start at 522 EUR per room per night. www.anantara.com
More about the hotel:
A member of Leading Hotels of the World, contemporary elegance and sleek, geometric design sums up this modern, 187-room hotel inspired by the elemental nature of the Irish landscape. Situated at the heart of the regenerated Docklands, the hotel is a perfect cultural and business epicenter for travelers’ keen to experience Irish hospitality in a modern, vibrant setting. In addition to these new experiences, guests are invited to sample locally sourced delicacies at the brand-new ‘Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins’ restaurant, relax at the award-winning spa complete with infinity pool, sauna and eucalyptus-infused steam room as well as enjoy stunning panoramic 360º views across the cityscape at the hotel’s stylish rooftop terrace.
Couples and families alike can choose from a wide range of cozy cafés and high-end restaurants in the local area, with shopping on nearby Grafton Street, boat rides along the River Liffey and in Dublin Bay or sporting activities from a relaxing yoga class to watching a game of Gaelic football at renowned Croke Park.
