March 2003 - For those that have not yet organised a much-needed Easter break, a haven from the pressures of work and home awaits at Dublin's most prestigious address, The Merrion Hotel. Easter packages for a weekend full of Irish charm offer the opportunity to roam around the historic and cultural elements of this historic city or unwind completely in luxurious style at the hotel itself.

The 'Off to the Races' Package, which costs €130 (approx. GBP£90) per person sharing per night, is the perfect package for those that like a flutter. Included in the package are two Reserved Enclosure tickets to the Irish Grand National Racetrack's Easter Festival, so guests can enjoy a whole day of wagering and hopefully, winning. Sleep off the excitement and post-race exhaustion with in an award-winning deluxe double room, recharging with a full Irish breakfast included in the morning. Races are held outside of Dublin at the Fairyhouse Racecourse and are scheduled daily 19th - 22nd April.

For holidaymakers that want a relaxed weekend without the excitement of the races, The Merrion's Easter Break Package is available at €115 (approx. GBP£80) per person sharing per night. The package gives guests the opportunity to explore Dublin at their own pace and enjoy the many attractions, restaurants, galleries and shopping areas within walking distance of the hotel. The package includes accommodation in a deluxe double or twin room and full Irish breakfast per person each morning. For guests who wish to attend CHURCH on Easter Sunday, nearby churches are easily accessible.

These exclusive offers are valid from 17th April - 21st April, are inclusive of value added tax at 13.5% and THERE IS NO SERVICE CHARGE at The Merrion. A range of other packages are also available at The Merrion, Dublin. For further information and reservations please contact The Merrion directly on +353 1 603 0600, facsimile +353 1 603 0700, or by email.

Background on The Merrion: Opened in October 1997, The Merrion - a recipient of several awards, including Five Red Stars from the AA, the 2003 Gold Ribbon Award by RAC Hotel Services, 'The World's Best Places to Stay', Conde Nast Traveller 2002 Gold List and 'Best Hotel Spa in Dublin', Harpers & Queen magazine 2002 - was created from an historic row of Georgian townhouses and the eighteenth century architecture and design have been preserved throughout the hotel. The 145-room property includes twenty suites, and features state-of-the art technology thoughtfully incorporated into the period-Georgian décor.

At time of going to press: GB £1 = €1.48

Click here to return to the news page