Review: The Woodland Suite Experience at The Montenotte Hotel

Location: The Montenotte Hotel is nestled in the heart of Cork, perched on a hill overlooking the River Lee, the harbour and the city skyline. Set among lush greenery but just a short walk to the city centre and a 15-minute drive from the airport, it enjoys the best of both Cork’s urban and natural sides.

First impressions: We’re ushered inside by Ken, the beaming doorman who greets us like old friends, and I instantly feel at home. This trademark Irish hospitality continues as I’m whisked across the grounds in The Montenotte’s pride and joy: its new golf buggy, with ‘The Woodland Suite Experience’ emblazoned on the side. A short ride from the main building brings us to The Clubhouse – the chic, cosy space reserved exclusively for guests staying in the Woodland Suites – where I enjoy a seamless check-in with a glass of chilled champagne.

The facts: The Woodland Suite Experience is the newest addition to the hotel’s offering, comprising nine pods akin to treehouses, enveloped by thick forest and wildflowers. My suite is spacious and modern, with a standalone bathtub, an outdoor terrace and a show-stopping sink crafted from a block of ivory stone. A two-minute walk through the hotel’s sunken gardens brings me back to the main building, home to the Bellevue Spa, the Panorama restaurant and The Glasshouse cocktail bar. My favourite amenity is the Cameo Cinema, an intimate space kitted out with elegant armchairs where guests can enjoy drinks, snacks and twice-daily free film screenings.