The Montenotte, in Cork, has been awarded a five-star classification by Fáilte Ireland for its newly launched Woodland Suite Experience.
Launched in August 2024, the Woodland Suite Experience is perched on the hilltop within the Montenotte’s grounds, nestled deep within the trees. It features nine Woodland Suites and River Suites, along with an exclusive, residents-only clubhouse, curated by owners Frankie and Jo Whelehan, with architects Henry J Lyons and interior designer Róisín Lafferty.
“This five-star classification is a proud milestone in our journey to put Cork firmly on the map as a luxury travel destination,” said the Whelehans. “We are passionate about providing our guests with a truly unique accommodation experience that challenges the norms and celebrates our stunning landscape.”
Each suite aims to offer a sanctuary that blends seamlessly with the woodland surroundings. The River and Woodland suites offer views of the woodland, Cork City, and the River Lee, below.
The Woodland Suite Experience features state-of-the-art Italian travertine (a form of limestone) and oak timber finishes, spacious bathrooms, with scenic-view bathtubs in the centre of the rooms, bespoke furnishings, and private terraces. Adding to this, each suite features Ortigia products in the bathrooms, a Dyson hairdryer, Jameson Black Barrel whiskey, from the Midleton Distillery Experience, and a selection of local Cork cheeses, upon arrival.
The owners claim that this duality perfectly reflects the Montenotte’s unique character as an urban resort, where guests can enjoy the best of both worlds: the vibrancy of Cork City and the peace of the Irish woodlands.
“With the Woodland Suite Experience, we look forward to welcoming guests to disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature, their loved ones, and themselves,” said the Whelehans.
Beyond the suites themselves, guests of the Woodland Suite Experience have access to the Montenotte’s award-winning Bellevue Spa and Salt Room, dining at the hotel’s Panorama restaurant, cocktails overlooking the city, at the Glasshouse, cinema screenings at the private Cameo Cinema, and strolls through the Victorian sunken gardens.
