Address: Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2.

Telephone: 00353 1 603 0600.

Website: merrionhotel.com.

First impressions: One of those magnificent Georgian buildings that speak of an age of quality and - yes, let's say it - class. Apart from the man outside wearing a top hat, you would never know this was an hotel. There is no canopy, no big sign outside. You walk through the automatic inner glass doors on to marble floors, the walls covered with paintings, the cost of which would not normally be considered part of an hotel's budget. Through another door, there are ladies behind a large reception desk who make you feel that you are so kind to have chosen their hotel.

What are the rooms like? The hotel has two wings - one, part of the original Georgian building in which you feel you are guests at an elegant mansion; the other wing is more modern. The rooms in the 'mansion' area are stunning, with furniture that even most of the people staying at the Merrion probably cannot afford: vast couches and armchairs, and wardrobes big enough to sleep in (if you feel like it).

The bed test: So big that you could lose your breakfast tray. Comfortable? The temptation to go to bed early and stay in till late is tremendous.

The restaurants: The Patrick Guilbaud specialises in 'fine French dining' and was the first in Ireland to gain two Michelin stars. Morningtons is more modern, more Irish, extremely good and cheaper.

What is there to see within walking distance? The hotel is in the heart of the most elegant part of Dublin, about 75 yards away from the National Gallery. Grafton Street is 10 minutes away, Dublin Castle is a 20-minute walk. And just down the road is the Oscar Wilde statue (opposite his old house).

How much? £195 per night for two, including Irish breakfast. A two-night 'Gourmet Experience' with dinner and Irish breakfast costs £446 for two.