Bellinter House Named One of Lonely Planet’s Best Hotels in Europe
We are incredibly proud to share that Bellinter House Hotel & Spa has been featured by Lonely Planet in its guide to 22 hotels in Europe that its editors cannot stop recommending.
Published in February 2026, the article brings together 22 distinctive stays from across Europe, chosen by Lonely Planet’s editors and contributors. To see Bellinter House included alongside hotels from France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Switzerland and beyond is a wonderful honour, and a proud moment for our entire team here in County Meath.
For us, the recognition is particularly meaningful because it celebrates the qualities we want every guest to experience at Bellinter: warm Irish hospitality, relaxed luxury, a remarkable sense of place and the freedom to slow down.
What did Lonely Planet say about Bellinter House?
Lonely Planet Editorial Director Fionnuala McCarthy describes Bellinter House as her favourite escape close to Dublin, a country retreat that feels a world away from the city once you arrive.
Her recommendation highlights many of the details that make a stay here so memorable: our 18th-century Georgian house on the banks of the River Boyne, our proximity to the ancient Hill of Tara, dog-friendly accommodation in The Stables and relaxed evenings spent dining beside the fire in The Drawing Room.
The article also singles out The Bathhouse Spa as a major reason to visit. We could not agree more.
Why is Bellinter House considered one of the best hotels in Europe?
The hotels featured by Lonely Planet are described as immersive, individual and full of character. Bellinter House has always offered exactly that kind of experience.
Built around 1750 and designed by renowned architect Richard Castle, Bellinter is an elegant Georgian country house with a naturally easy-going spirit. Set within 12 acres of Boyne Valley countryside, the hotel combines more than 270 years of history with contemporary comfort, restorative spa experiences and genuinely warm hospitality.
There is no one way to enjoy Bellinter. Guests can settle into a sofa by the fire, explore the Boyne Valley, share a leisurely meal, escape to the spa or simply enjoy the quiet of the estate. It is luxurious without feeling formal and special without ever losing its sense of home.
A luxury country house hotel in the Boyne Valley
Bellinter House Hotel & Spa sits on the south bank of the River Boyne, close to Navan and within sight of the Hill of Tara. Although it is within easy reach of Dublin, the peaceful setting creates an immediate sense of escape.
The Boyne Valley is one of Ireland’s most historic and beautiful regions, making Bellinter an ideal base for discovering the area’s ancient sites, landscapes and stories. Guests can explore nearby attractions before returning to the calm of the house, the warmth of the fire and the comfort of their room.
Discover things to do in the Boyne Valley during your stay.
Relax and restore at The Bathhouse Spa
As Lonely Planet notes, the spa is one of Bellinter’s greatest draws. The Bathhouse Spa offers award-winning VOYA treatments, while our outdoor Thermal Suite includes a 10-metre infinity pool, hot tubs, Harvia saunas, a cold plunge pool and heated relaxation areas overlooking the Boyne Valley.
Whether you are planning a romantic break, a restorative spa escape or a relaxed getaway with friends, Bellinter offers space to pause and reconnect. The experience is designed to feel unhurried from the moment you arrive.
Stay somewhere with a story
Our individually styled bedrooms and suites are found throughout the estate, from the historic Main House and characterful Stables to the Boyne Valley Suites, The Schoolhouse and the one-of-a-kind Bellinter Express.
Each offers its own take on Bellinter’s personality. Guests might choose Georgian grandeur, countryside views, a private outdoor hot tub or dog-friendly accommodation, while always enjoying the same relaxed welcome.
Dining at the heart of the house
Food and conversation have always been part of life at Bellinter. Today, guests can enjoy dining at Bellinter House in spaces that range from the welcoming Drawing Room & Bar to Preston’s, where our team showcases carefully sourced produce.
The atmosphere is as important as the menu. Settle in, take your time and enjoy the kind of evening that does not need to be planned down to the last detail.
A proud moment for everyone at Bellinter House
Being included in Lonely Planet’s selection of 22 recommended hotels in Europe is an achievement we are delighted to share with our guests, our local community and every member of the Bellinter team.
It is also a reflection of the people who bring Bellinter to life each day. From the warm welcome at reception to the care shown in our bedrooms, spa and dining spaces, this recognition belongs to the entire team.
Most of all, it belongs to the guests who return to Bellinter, recommend us to others and make the house feel alive. Thank you for being part of our story.
Experience one of Lonely Planet’s recommended hotels in Europe
Come and discover why Bellinter House Hotel & Spa has earned a place among Lonely Planet’s standout hotels in Europe. Whether you are joining us for a spa break, a romantic escape, a country-house stay or a few peaceful days in the Boyne Valley, we look forward to welcoming you.