5-star design hotel on the edge of Galway city — interiors by Philip Treacy (the famous Irish-born milliner), with bold pinks, magentas, and curved spaces. Award-winning spa, ESPA treatments, and a Lough Atalia view across the wetland reserve.

Pro tip: the Pink Lounge for cocktails before dinner is a Galway ritual — even non-guests stop in. About 20 minutes’ walk to Quay Street and Tigh Neachtain pub for the trad-music nights.