Slieve Donard

We stayed at the Slieve Donard Hotel as we were given vouchers a couple of years ago. We used both vouchers and paid extra just for the room for one night so we’re expecting an outstanding stay but were left feeling disappointed.

The rooms were not overly clean. When we first arrived we had booked a heritage room and were shocked at how basic the room was for the price. We also went to the bathroom and found there was water all over the floor around the toilet. Went to speak to reception and the man who helped us was very apologetic and helpful. He upgraded us to a suite. However, when we arrived there was an earring sitting on the desk in the room, the door was cracked, and the table leg was broken. We both felt there were no extra facilities to justify the price. The spa was nice but, again, was not overly clean and gets very busy throughout the day. The spa facilities were pretty standard and felt did not justify the high price tag.

When we arrived we were told that everything in the mini fridge was complimentary. Went to the room to find the fridge was empty, which was frustrating.

Overall a very underwhelming stay and have experienced the same (and better) elsewhere for much less.

Hi guys, just an update on the slieve donard. We had the good fortune of being able to visit the slieve once again on Friday and Saturday 21st and 22nd of January.

Now under new ownership we wanted to see if the experience would be the same.

Unfortunately it just doesn’t seem to hit the heights that we previously experienced. It’s very difficult to pin down exactly why as some parts are perfect. Young Rory in the Chaplins bar was an absolute joy and had all the crack and professionalism that you associate with a top venue. Indeed I would go as far to say he was a credit to the new owners.

The check in experience was also perfect. I had made a mistake when booking and booked a twin rather than a double and the lady on reception could not have been more helpful in her efforts to help us find a suitable alternative.

Not sure what was missing maybe the old familiar faces or the identity that being the Hastings jewel in the crown brought but there is something not quite right.

Anyhow the review is not a bad one but just not as per usual one if you get my meaning.

John and ju.

Stopped off on a trip to the Mournes with a coffee break at the hotel. It is very striking both inside and outside. We were directed to the Lighthouse Lounge.

Another couple was ahead of us at the door waiting to be seated. Tables were available inside but the two waitresses were totally ignoring the four of us and poring over the computer. Eventually the other two gave up and headed for the bar.

We decided to walk closer to the desk and at last we were seated.
A very slow service followed with lattes and scones ordered.

However when they came the coffee and scones {one cherry, one plain} were really excellent and the scones enormous and first class.

Save that is for the horrible bitter jam provided. We tried to guess what combination of fruit was in it but gave up. There was an influx of staff to relieve the original two and one confirmed it was strawberry. Without doubt it was the worst strawberry jam I ever had. Somebody really needs to taste that and get a better jam.

So there you have it, slow service and horrendous jam, but great scones and lattes.

The room is airy with tremendous views and a nice atmosphere. We will give it a go again next week.

Booked a 2 night stay for myself and husband at Slieve Donard believing we were in for such a treat. Rang spa prior to arrival to book treatments only to be told they were fully booked and placed on reserve list. At check in I asked to book a table for dinner only to be told fully booked could not accommodate in any of there restaurants even if residents.
The room we were allocated was 309. Never have I been so disappointed in a room it was terrible! Broken fan with cover missing, broken toilet roll holder huge spider webs everywhere. The windows were pure grime. The smallest bath ever with a shower over it. I've posted pictures so you can see for yourself
Would I stay again NEVER.

Drinks with friends who we’re staying in the hotel. We were invited to the wolf bar.
No the cheapest of cocktails.
But very bad service.
For the price the drink was not even full to the top.
Not presented well
Not even on a napkin or a small plater. When I asked for a slice of lemon the bar man came and had it on his hands and then proceeded to put it on the rim of my drink and said . There is that better.
That’s not 5 star service

Over-rated, over-priced and have no regard for their staff and their welfare through this pandemic by refusing to continue the furlough scheme to protect their jobs and livelihoods. Only out to protect profits and nothing else. Plenty of other beautiful places to stay nearby - I’d give this place a miss!

I have been staying at this hotel for around 20 years celebrating many special occasions and super excited to see what the new owners had done to the place ..

We have just arrived home after a night celebrating our wedding anniversary.
Underwhelmed and unimpressed are the key points .
Reception check in a positive, very friendly.

Room ..
Bedroom was clean , no min fridge which we definitely had in previous visits( maybe a different grade of room) however unable to keep juice cold.
Bathroom.. well .. cracks on the floor tiles , mould on the seal around the bath and tiles need a good deep clean . We showered before heading out and this morning went to shower to realise only 1 tiny shower gel for 2 people which was used . Poor .

Bar . We actually didn’t stay for a drink ( probably not a bad thing when we looked at the prices ) however the smell of food was unbearable. Clearly no ventilation to remove from the restaurant opposite. Never experienced this on any previous visits.

Percy French Restaurant… this place also needs a refurbishment. Dryers don’t work in the toilets , butter packets and chips on the floor when we entered and still there when we left , staff pleasant however the swearing behind the bar not great when kids around.

Will we return? 100% not .
The price we paid does not reflect our experience.
Very disappointed.

Lovely hotel. Rooms are fabulous. We had a suite with an ocean view & it was incredible. The wind was really bad the night we stayed & the roar of the wind on the roof tiles kept us up unfortunately- would’ve preferred a nicer nights sleep-whilst they aren’t in control of the weather, they are in control of keeping the roof in good repair.
We went to the spa & had a full body massage & a facial. The spa was top notch 👌 the food on offer was lovely as well. Would recommend this hotel to anyone!

Enjoyed every minute of our stay. Place was spotless, room was gorgeous and we couldn’t fault breakfast and dinner. Staff were very pleasant and although restrictions were in place, we still thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Only down fall was the queue for check in was very long however staff were cleaning everything down after each guest which was nice to see. Will definitely be back.

Not long checked in to the popular and well respected Slieve Donnard. Initial thoughts ? The receptionist, a well dressed young male didn’t have the warmest of welcomes for us. Very robotic with his delivery , the spa ladies had far more warmth and welcoming..put them on reception. We asked if there was a room with a sea view …he said there was ‘1’ but needed to check if the water was working and proceeded to have a conversation in front of us over the radio’ no sorry no rooms . I’m 52, have travelled far and wide , delivery and warmth is everything… he didn’t have that. Anyway to the room ..I wasn’t expecting anything grand as I had a last minute deal for a room with breakfast , a standard double. Lots of space, no view but as explained apparently there was only one left today ….. and it’s unavailable….Room very warm with complimentary water which is the temperature of the sun so I will see if I can get this replaced. Lets see how the rest of the day goes as I have travelled from England for one night to spend with my partner for birthday celebrations. To be continued…..