Nestled within a serene alcove of pine trees adjacent to the fourth fairway at Royal Portrush, the Dunluce Lodge stands as a premier five-star hotel, providing an exceptional stay for golfers and visitors to the Northern Irish seaside town of Portrush. Named after the nearby medieval Dunluce Castle, just a short drive away, this establishment is ideally positioned for those exploring Royal Portrush and the region's acclaimed golf courses.
A Grand Opening and Celebrity Endorsement
This £16.5 million hotel debuted in the autumn of 2024, perfectly timed for the return of the Open Championship the following year. Notably, Rory McIlroy and his family chose to stay here during the 2025 Open, underscoring its appeal to top-tier golfers. The property boasts 35 luxury suites and a private guest house, The Stookan, which features eight bedrooms, ensuring a range of opulent accommodations.
Elegant Accommodations with Coastal Charm
The Dunluce Lodge offers a warm and cosy atmosphere, providing a welcome retreat after a day on the links. Interior designers have masterfully created a warming environment while paying homage to the Antrim coast's natural colours. Each suite features dark herringbone green and tartan blue furniture, reflecting the grassy cliffs and North Atlantic waters. Dark oak panelled walls throughout enhance the hotel's elegance and grandeur.
Guests enjoy well-stocked minibars with local craft beers, wines, and even mini bottles of Bollinger. The king-size beds are outfitted with 300 thread count luxury Egyptian cotton linen, guaranteeing a restful night's sleep. Attentive staff provide turndown service, including chocolates on pillows, and the hotel offers value deals like overnight bed and breakfast stays or two-night dinner escapes.
Exquisite Dining and Libations
The Bar and Restaurant
The hotel bar, with its dark oak panelled ceilings and floors, offers a soothing ambiance, ideal for relaxing during North Atlantic gales. Windows provide stunning views of the Dunluce Links, allowing guests to watch golfers on the fairways. The drinks menu features specialty cocktails named after holes on the Dunluce Links, such as the Calamity Corner dirty martini and the White Rocks Negroni, complete with hole maps for an immersive experience.
An extensive whiskey selection includes blends from the nearby Bushmills Distillery, with staff offering guided tastings of rare options like a £12,000 46-year-old single malt. For a more intimate setting, the Vault—a cosy wine cellar—hosts exclusive dining experiences, reminiscent of a James Bond film, with a 28-page wine menu showcasing the hotel's well-stocked cellar.
The restaurant, Bailiú, meaning 'gathering' in Irish Gaelic, serves an à la carte menu with locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include oysters, chicken liver parfait, and seared scallops, alongside meat and vegetarian options like seared duck breast and braised beef fillet. The food is cooked to Michelin standard, with exceptional presentation and attentive service.
Relaxation and Recreation
The Spa
The state-of-the-art spa, set in a wooden cabin amid pine trees, offers a tranquil escape with treatments such as massages, facials, and body rituals. Day retreats are available for non-guests, and a balcony provides views of the fourth fairway, enhancing the serene experience.
Golf and Experiences
A standout feature is the 40-yard putting green, designed with help from Royal Portrush grounds staff, offering a true roll similar to the Dunluce Links. Guests can borrow Taylor Made Spider putters from the lobby for practice. The hotel also facilitates transfers to local courses like Portstewart Golf Club and Castle Rock Golf Club, and can arrange tours of the Causeway Coast or Bushmills Distillery.
Final Impressions
The Dunluce Lodge excels as a top destination for golf trips to Northern Ireland, combining brilliant staff, delectable cuisine, and luxurious amenities. From its strategic location to its attention to detail, it provides an unforgettable stay for visitors to Royal Portrush and beyond.
