The sleek and stylish Anantara The Marker Dublin is a vibrant fusion of modern elegance and local culture, offering breath-taking views and luxurious accommodations, which captures the essence of Dublin’s thriving Docklands in every detail.
Hotel
On a sun drenched September day in Dublin’s Docklands, I found myself captivated as I approached The Marker Hotel. Crossing the iconic Samuel Beckett Bridge and strolling along the Liffey, where yachts gracefully bob, this hotel stands out as an exquisite maritime sanctuary. The exterior, a tribute to Ireland’s rich geological tapestry, melds seamlessly with the bold architecture of the surrounding area.
Rebranded under Anantara in 2023 after a thoughtful renovation, this hotel dazzles with its chequerboard façade inspired by the Cliffs of Moher. Stepping inside to the expansive ground floor, a breath-taking 67-metre atrium feels almost like a curated art exhibition, where vibrant lounge bars flow into a pristine, minimalist lobby, all crowned by a striking honeycomb ceiling—an homage to The Burren’s unique landscapes, echoing the Giant’s Causeway and embodying Anantara’s ethos of authentic luxury.
Room
The hotel artfully integrates indigenous, expertise, and authentic luxury across its offerings. Each of the 187 rooms boasts breath-taking views of the city or Dublin Bay, enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows, and thoughtfully designed with ergonomic furnishings, advanced technology, and sumptuous bathrooms for a truly indulgent experience. After a warm and welcoming check-in, I was escorted to the lifts, making my way down a beautifully illuminated corridor, inspired by the ancient site of Newgrange, which led me to my junior corner suite.
My stay here proved to be the perfect sanctuary. With spacious areas for work, relaxation, and unwinding, I revelled in the soft sunlight streaming onto my Eames-style chair, complemented by a stylish workstation and a striking smoked mirror wall housing the coffee station. The suite embraced a sophisticated palette of greys and royal blue, beautifully softened by the white leather-backed king bed and contemporary gilded light fixtures. A vibrant peace lily added a refreshing touch of green.
A cosy twin armchair seating area offered splendid floor-to-ceiling views, and the luxurious ensuite boasted grey marble finishes, a rain shower, inviting tub, plush robes, and Voya skincare products for an indulgent experience. I was pleasantly surprised by a bar of Co Wexford’s Bean and Goose chocolate by my bedside, boxty featured on the breakfast menu, and an ‘Irish Wine Geese’ section on the wine list. The blend of striking architecture and local storytelling in the 187-bed haven felt refreshingly innovative.
Food and drink
Upon entering Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins, one is greeted by a stunning installation of hanging plants that cascades overhead. This botanical motif seamlessly carries into the interior, where rich greenery envelops the space, creating a warm and welcoming ambience. The overall vibe is relaxed and understated, enhanced by the dark, earthy tones of the black and brown furniture. However, the scene is enlivened by chairs adorned in vibrant shades of poppy orange and cheerful yellow. With a playful mix of colourful cushions, inviting booth seating, and round tables, the restaurant strikes an exquisite balance between formal and informal, crafting an atmosphere that is both chic and comfortable.
Renowned executive head chef Mullins has meticulously curated top-tier food producers to deliver an exceptional culinary journey. Signature offerings include Flaggy Shore Oysters, John Stone T-Bone steaks infused with Pearse Lyons Whiskey, and exquisite Irish artisan cheeses complemented by figs and Irish lavender. The restaurant boasts an open kitchen, allowing diners to revel in its vibrant atmosphere. With intimate booths, soft lighting, and a remarkable wine cave spotlighting Irish ‘Wine Geese,’ the experience is elevated.
Choose from a la carte or pre-theatre menus, conveniently located steps from Bord Gais Energy Theatre. The following morning, breakfast unfolds in the same elegant restaurant, showcasing an indulgent buffet alongside a comprehensive cooked-to-order menu. The Rooftop Bar and Terrace boasts stunning 180-degree views of the historic city, ideal for young professionals wanting cocktails and music. Expert mixologists craft classic drinks featuring locally produced liquors, with a full page dedicated to Irish gins like Blackwater Strawberry and Ornabrak Single Malt. For casual bites, the Marker Bar offers soups, salads, and shareable snacks using the finest local ingredients, with outside seating perfect for people-watching.
Spa and wellness
Those familiar with Anantara recognise their commitment to wellness and holistic wellbeing, and The Marker in Dublin is no exception. The award-winning spa collaborates with Elemental Herbology to deliver indulgent, aroma-infused treatments, including the traditional Thai QI Flow, Ho-Leaf and rosemary muscle melt, and a five-element aroma massage, blending Eastern and Western techniques for optimal relaxation.
Guests can relax in the ambient 23-metre infinity pool, complemented by a Jacuzzi, sauna, and eucalyptus-infused steam room. By day, the rooftop bar transforms into a yoga studio, and guests can experience wild swimming along Ireland’s rugged coastline, searching for seals and dolphins in the refreshing waters.
To do
The Marker aspires to deliver an urban resort experience, and it beautifully fulfils this promise with an impressive array of amenities. The high-tech gym and spa, showcasing indigenous Irish products, offer rejuvenating treatments. Additionally, the hotel curates unique experiences, including guided Docklands walks, wellness retreats, and enchanting rooftop yoga sessions.
In a nutshell
The hotel harmoniously marries modern elegance with Dublin’s vibrant culture, distinguishing itself through bold architecture and well-appointed spaces. Its array of bespoke experiences, like the Spice Spoons journey with chef Gareth Mullins and the captivating Docklands Storytelling Tour, deeply immerse guests in the local lifestyle and rich heritage.
Factbox
Room rates are from £460 for a junior suite with breakfast for a night.
Address: Grand Canal Square, Docklands D02 CK38, Dublin – Ireland
Phone: +353 (0) 16875100
Website: anantara.com/en/the-marker-dublin
Photography courtesy of Anantara The Marker Dublin unless otherwise credited.
