Hazelbrook House

Rooms at the Hazelbrook House are a cut above those on offer at the neighboring B&Bs along Lower Gardiner Street. And in their rate category, with double rooms in low season cheaper than their hostel equivalent, they stand out from the pack.

Staying in one of the Hazelbrook House’s 34 rooms is a bit like staying at the home of a fastidiously clean, though aesthetically indifferent (and somewhat disorganized) aunt. The lines are clean here. Duvets and pillows are uniform white. Furniture is of IKEA-ish pressboard. Discounting the curtains, there’s not a pattern in sight.

In other words, although the Hazelbrook’s nonsmoking rooms will not be winning an interior design award anytime soon, they’re fine, and they come equipped with standard amenities, including coffee and tea facilities, and a TV. The private bathrooms, in all rooms, are equally fine. Rooms facing Lower Gardiner Street have large, old-fashioned windows (read: they let in more noise). The back rooms are quieter, but not as bright, as the windows are smaller.

A full complimentary Irish breakfast (cereal, bacon, eggs, toast, coffee and tea) and free Wi-Fi sweeten the deal. There are free parking spots as well, which have to be reserved in advance. Regarding the hotel's organizational challenges, let's just say it's best to confirm your reservation before arrival.