Louise Cooney, the Limerick City native, recently partnered with Discover Northern Ireland to recommend to her 215k followers on Instagram, some of the best spas, shopping and award-winning food experiences to enjoy in Northern Ireland.
Just two hours up the road from her home in Dublin, Belfast proved that it really is a small step to a giant adventure. Louise spent three days soaking up luxurious experiences and can’t-miss cultural tours.
After the trip, Louise said “Just home from the best weekend ever in Belfast. This gorgeous city did not disappoint! Big thanks for Discover NI for having me.”
If you're heading to the city of Belfast soon, follow in the footsteps of Louise and make the most of your trip by taking inspiration from some of the things she got up to...
Day One
A slice of heaven in Cathedral Quarter
Louise’s first stop was the five-star Merchant Hotel in the heart of Belfast's historic Cathedral Quarter. The rich history and heritage of this grade A listed building is complemented by a wealth of modern, multi-award-winning facilities and services with every comfort the modern traveller could wish for. Not to be missed is the hot tub overlooking the city, which Louise called “a slice of heaven”.
Take in the history of Belfast
Louise joined DC Tours’ Stevie Malone for the award-winning tour explaining the Troubles and the peace process with honesty and great insight. Finishing up at the Beacon of Hope, it was time for a bite to eat...
Dine and Discover in the Titanic Quarter
The vibrant Titanic Quarter provided the setting for lunch. Drawing Office Two, with its spectacular three-storey high barrel-vaulted ceiling, is a breath-taking room in the heart of the hotel, where many of the world’s most famous ocean liners, including RMS Titanic, were designed.
After lunch, it was time for The Titanic Experience, the world’s most authentic retelling of the iconic story. The self-guided tour extends over nine interactive galleries where you discover the sights, sounds, smells and stories of the ship, as well as the people and city that made her.
Michelin starred hospitality
Ox is a 1 Michelin star restaurant, with a sumptuous tasting menu with wine pairings. Belfast-born Stephen and Brittany native Alain met in Paris. Working in various influential and inspirational restaurants they have honed their skills, developed their talents and percolated ideas to put into practice against the backdrop of their own relaxed riverside restaurant.
Day Two
Belfast’s shopping mecca
Louise enjoyed a spot of shopping at the city-centre Victoria Square. With an A-Z of shopping and home to many designer and luxury brands, it’s the perfect spot for some retail therapy. Its unique Dome provides 360-degree views across the city to the famous Harland & Wolff Cranes, Belfast City Hall and Stormont Parliament Buildings.
Unwind at the Merchant Hotel
The Merchant Hotel’s quintessential afternoon tea has garnered a reputation as a “must do” experience to enjoy when visiting the city. The breath-taking surroundings of The Great Room Restaurant boast a wealth of original Victorian features.
Next up, it was time for the hotel’s spa. Located in the heart of Belfast city centre, the destination is unexpected and stunning. With five treatment rooms, a relaxation room and hydrotherapy area, this restful space is a quiet haven away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Louise enjoyed a back massage and facial, as well as the aroma steam room, a rock sauna with a magnificent view over the city and the “pièce de résistance”: a rooftop hot tub with panoramic city views
Colourful Flavours
Yugo’s fresh vibrant food and classic cocktails served with flavours of Asia have it made it one of the must go restaurants in Belfast.
Reconnect with nature
Louise ended her trip to Northern Ireland with a trip to Montalto Estate. Nestled in the heart of County Down, the estate is the perfect way to reconnect with nature, in a natural, historical, and truly relaxing setting. The Café at Montalto is a stylish eatery which specialises in locally inspired dishes that people love – all served the Montalto way. And don’t forget to visit the magical Christmas shop!
Louise embraced Northern Ireland’s giant spirit safe in the knowledge that the majority of the places they visited had the ‘We’re Good to Go’ mark which lets visitors know that the business adheres to government and public health guidance.
If you are following in Louise’s footsteps, we would encourage you to sign our Visitor Pledge. Tourism Northern Ireland is inviting people to #MakeAGiantDifference and join the movement to take care of Northern Ireland by signing the new Visitor Pledge.
You can Embrace a Giant Spirit in Northern Ireland with a whole host of activities to explore, it’s only a small step to a giant adventure!
Louise's trip to Northern Ireland was organised by Tourism NI.
Situated in the heart of Belfast city centre's historic Cathedral Quarter, The award-winning 5 AA Red star Merchant Hotel is a harmonious blend of Victorian grandeur and Art Deco inspired sleek modernity with award-winning restaurants and cocktail bar, a tranquil spa and rooftop gym and hot tub.
DC Tours run scheduled, private and group walking tours. Their flagship tour ‘A History of Terror’ is an award-winning and politically neutral city centre walking tour explaining the history of the Troubles and the path to peace and reconciliation. Their ‘Best of Belfast’ tour is the perfect introduction to the city, its beautiful architecture, stunning street art, unique history and the amazing stories of its citizens from across the centuries.
Welcome to Titanic Belfast, an award-winning visitor experience offering the opportunity to learn about Titanic’s history, just a few minutes from where the ship herself was famously designed, built and launched in 1911. This self-guided tour tells the Titanic’s story from conception through to its first and final journey across the Atlantic, as well as the historical and cultural impact on Belfast and beyond.
OX is a Michelin starred restaurant that offers relaxed dining overlooking the River Lagan, with menus designed to showcase excellent meats and sustainably sourced fish whilst equally careful attention is given to seasonal vegetables and fruit.
The world's most authentic Titanic hotel is now open. The transformation of the legendary Harland & Wolff headquarters and spectacular Drawing Offices is now complete. Belfast's deluxe-hotel offers an unforgettable experience.
Northern Ireland’s biggest and brightest shopping centre. Inside Victoria Square you'll find shops, an Odeon Cinema and lots of eateries. Highlights include Five Guys, House of Fraser, Urban Outfitters, and Hugo Boss.
The Great Room Restaurant offers a sumptuous space evoking timeless grandeur. A fitting setting for gastronomic delights inspired by the classics. One can taste the subtle flavours of each component, each element complementing one another perfectly.
Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children can engage, explore and learn.
