Explore Dublin’s Docklands, where Anantara The Marker Hotel offers luxury, modern design, and stunning views in the heart of the city’s vibrant tech hub, writes AKANKSHA DEAN
Discover a hidden gem in the Irish capital, overlooking the water in the revitalised Silicon Docks. Here, a unique facet of Dublin emerges, where the city’s historic charm blends effortlessly with its modern vibrancy.
Even for locals, this area offers a distinctly refreshing experience, providing a new perspective on Dublin while keeping its iconic landmarks easily accessible. Embrace the fusion of old and new in this captivating locale. Dublin’s Docklands, affectionately known as the 'Silicon Docks', serve as the European headquarters for tech giants like Facebook, Google, and Airbnb. At the heart of this dynamic district stands Anantara The Marker Hotel, a striking geometric marvel that has become its unofficial symbol. The name ‘The Marker’ pays tribute to the Grand Canal’s rich trading history. The canal, which stretches 82 miles, was once marked by cast iron signs indicating the distance to the end of the journey. The hotel now proudly occupies the site of the last of these markers.
Located on the south bank of the River Liffey, the hotel offers stunning views of Grand Canal Dock and the vibrant Grand Canal Square, which features the eye-catching Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, designed by Daniel Libeskind. At night, the square comes alive, illuminated in vivid shades of red and green. This bustling area sits at the heart of Dublin’s thriving tech industry, with one section even nicknamed ‘Googletown’. Conveniently, the hotel is just a 20-minute drive from Dublin Airport and a mere 15-minute walk from the city centre, making it the perfect base for exploring the capital’s many attractions.
MODERN ELEGANCE AWAITS
Every design element at Anantara The Marker tells a story, much like the vibrant neighbourhood that surrounds it. The Docklands continues to evolve as one of Dublin’s most exciting districts. As I step into The Marker, I am immediately captivated by its lively atmosphere, which resonates throughout. The luminous lobby leads to colour-infused bedrooms, each exuding modern elegance. Young Dubliners gather in the atrium for drinks, creating a vibrant social scene. On sunny days, the rooftop bar becomes a buzzing hub, offering breathtaking views—a perfect retreat amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.
Originally opened in 2013 and rebranded under Anantara in 2023 following an extensive renovation, this hotel is a beacon of modernity. Its striking chequerboard façade, inspired by the Cliffs of Moher, welcomes guests into a mesmerising 67-metre-long atrium with a cantilevered ceiling reminiscent of the Giant’s Causeway. The hotel’s public spaces, including a bar, lounge, and restaurant, invite relaxation and enjoyment. Embodying the Anantara philosophy, the hotel integrates the brand’s three core pillars—Indigenous, Expertise, and Authentic Luxury—throughout its offerings.
Each of the 187 rooms and suites offers spectacular views of the city, Grand Canal, Dublin Bay, or the mountains, with floor-to-ceiling windows enhancing the experience. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with ergonomic furnishings, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious bathrooms to ensure an indulgent stay. The Junior Corner Suite provided the perfect haven for my stay. With ample space to work, unwind, or simply relax, I appreciated the gentle sunlight streaming onto my Eames-style chair at the desk. A freshly brewed espresso added a delightful touch to the start of my day. I was pleasantly surprised to find a bar of Co Wexford’s Bean and Goose chocolate by my bedside, boxty on the breakfast menu, and an 'Irish Wine Geese' section on the wine list. The fusion of striking architecture and local storytelling in this 187-room haven feels refreshingly new, allowing me to effortlessly balance work and relaxation.
Wellness is a priority at the award-winning spa, which offers a range of rejuvenating body treatments and massages. The facilities include a 75-foot indoor infinity pool, a steam room, a eucalyptus-infused sauna, and a whirlpool tub—making it the perfect way to start my mornings before venturing out. One of my favourite retreats was the chic rooftop bar and terrace, which boasts panoramic views. Each evening, I found myself captivated by the skyline, watching the stunning sunsets that bathed the city in warm orange hues.
At the heart of The Marker’s culinary journey is the vibrant new Forbes Street restaurant by Gareth Mullins. As a fan of Gareth’s weekly cooking segment, I eagerly anticipated the experience. I began with exquisite Flaggy Shore oysters on crushed ice paired with a delightful Bloody Mary. The marbled rib-eye, perfectly seared and served with zingy chimichurri, house-cut chips, and a rocket salad, was a standout. For dessert, a creative presentation of North County Dublin rhubarb, smoked vanilla, and crispy potatoes captured the essence of simple yet exceptional dining.
STORIES OF DUBLIN
Unlike the traditional luxury of the Merrion, Westbury, or Shelbourne, The Marker embraces bold architecture while ensuring substance matches its style. Anantara’s mantra, 'Life is a journey', resonates through its various activities, such as docklands walks and sea swimming. However, its bespoke experiences are what truly set it apart, meticulously designed to immerse visitors in the local culture and lifestyle.
For food lovers, the signature Spice Spoons journey with Executive Chef Gareth Mullins is a particular highlight. Guests spend the day with Mullins exploring the charming fishing village of Howth, just 30 minutes from Dublin, and enjoy a chartered boat tour around Dublin Bay, with opportunities to spot dolphins and seals. A visit to Kish Fish, one of Ireland’s premier salmon smokehouses, precedes an enriching lesson in baking traditional Irish soda bread back at the hotel. Other curated experiences include wild swimming at a local hotspot, led by an open-sea coach, and an insightful deep dive into equine culture at the Irish National Stud and Gardens with a renowned horse trainer. A particular treat is Afternoon Tea: Poetry and Places, which celebrates Ireland’s literary heritage.
For me, the highlight was the Docklands Storytelling Tour, led by Derek Brennan, the hotel’s Irish storyteller and guest experience manager. His engaging tales bring the area’s history to life, weaving together the rich stories of the Docklands, a tradition that has continued since the hotel’s inception in 2013.
SIP, STROLL, EXPLORE
No trip to Dublin is complete without exploring the city’s rich attractions. A must-visit is EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, conveniently located within walking distance of the hotel. This interactive museum explores the history of the Irish diaspora and emigration. Just around the corner, you will find The Ferryman Townhouse, a lively pub where locals warmly welcome visitors, happy to share a table and demonstrate the art of enjoying a pint in under ten seconds.
For those with a sense of adventure, Grafton Street, The Temple Bar, and Trinity College Dublin are a leisurely 30-minute walk away. Be sure to set aside an evening for the renowned Guinness Storehouse, where a guided tour offers an insight into the brewing process and guests can create a 'stoutie'—a selfie on the frothy beer head. This blend of modernity and community encapsulates the essence of Dublin’s evolving urban landscape, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and travellers.
Akanksha Dean is an independent food and travel writer, chef, and catalyst, and the first Indian to have trained at Osteria Francescana in Modena, Italy—rated the world’s best restaurant in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2016 and 2018, and currently in the Best of the Best category.
