Just a short 10-minute drive from Belfast International Airport lies a gem of tranquillity and indulgence called The Rabbit Hotel. Please don’t think of this hotel as the baby sister of the Galgorm – let me assure you, it packs a BIG punch.
Once touching down in Ireland, we were greeted at the airport by a lovely member of staff called Peter who regaled us with stories of the hotel and Northern Ireland on the drive to our accommodation.
The Rabbit Hotel welcome
Walking in to the Rabbit Hotel, I could tell we were in for a treat. From the moment you step into the lobby, you’re enveloped in an ambiance of quirky decor and warmth. You didn’t know where to look first. The staff, with their genuine friendliness, set the tone for the whole experience. They eagerly introduced us to the hotel’s charming quirks – from the resident canine companion, Florence (who sits awaiting companions for strolls) to the schedule of spa treatments and dining delights that await. There was even a popcorn cart with fresh hot corn that you could help yourself to if you fancied a nibble. The smell was incredible.
Looking around the hotel, every nook and cranny was filled with more wonderful quirky items that had me putting items on my wish list. There was comfy seating everywhere that invited you to sit down, chat and relax in.
Our room
The rooms, adorned with quirky decor, offer a cozy retreat from the world. There’s ample space to unwind, whether you’re sinking into plush furnishings or delighting in the sound system, ready to serenade you with your favourite tunes. We had an outdoor bathtub and log burner in the little courtyard of our room, which on a sunny day made for a different way to relax.
Evening entertainment
In the evening, the restaurant comes to life with the buzz of conversation and on some nights, they have live music. Sat at the table, the staff guided us through the menu and I have to say, trust their recommendations; each dish was worth it.
A lovely and thoughtful touch was a bespoke cocktail, expertly crafted and made at your door, setting the stage before heading out to dinner.
The Rabbit Hotel Spa
Ah, the spa. What to say! It was a sanctuary of serenity even with the unpredictable Northern Irish weather. There’s something undeniably magical about soaking outdoors, cocooned in warmth as it rains. And, the disco ball was a lovely touch.
The heated pebbled beach was a nice place to relax in the deck chairs and we made good use of the steam and saunas. I was booked in for one of their hot stone massages which was glorious, a blissful hour of relaxation guided by skilled hands and a soothing ambiance.
To call this experience merely ‘relaxing’ feels like an understatement. The Rabbit Hotel isn’t just a getaway; it’s an essential addition to your bucket list. Whether you seek solace from the hustle and bustle or simply crave a taste of luxury, or just to rock up and have dinner and a drink, this hidden gem in Northern Ireland promises an experience you won’t easily forget.
