Why Book Belfast Hotels

From a mere village in the 17th century, to a thriving 20th-century metropolis of half a million people, Belfast has undergone many changes over the years.

Ringed by high hills, sea lough and river valleys, Northern Ireland 's capital has endured a collective suffering during the years of the Troubles, when civil conflict threatened to tear long-established communities apart. Today, this city dubbed the Hibernian Rio offers an irresistible blend of re-energised urbanity and easy access to natural splendour. The scars of the war are still evident in parts but the city is now firmly looking to a brighter future, where its destiny is in its own hands.

Compact and easy to explore on foot, the centre of Belfast doesn't boast the historical impact of other European capitals, and its collections of art although impressive are by no means extensive. But what Belfast might lack in world class attractions it makes up for in attitude; when one of the premier historical attractions is a pub you know you're in a city that values having a good time.

There is a truly international selection of restaurants, bars and cafés to explore and with the rugged natural splendour of coast, lake and moor just outside the city you will find few places more suited to the outdoors type.

Since the Good Friday agreement of 1998, which called a halt to the civil unrest in Northern Ireland, Belfast has developed into a popular weekend destination, with grand Victorian architecture in the city centre and an influx of new bars, clubs and restaurants and there are some great hotels in Belfast.

An interesting place to stay would be the recently refurbished 4-star Europa in the heart of the city, where Bill Clinton was a guest during his recent visit to the province. The Stormont Hotel is situated directly opposite the long drive to the Stormont Parliament and plays host to visiting politicians during talks.

If you don't need to be located within the city centre, we suggest you head out along the beautiful Antrim coast, which is just a short drive from the city. The Culloden Hotel is ideally situated on the wooded slopes of the Holywood Hills, overlooking Belfast and the county Antrim coastline. The resplendent building, which was originally an official palace for the bishops of Down, is a fine example of 19th-century Scottish baronial architecture. The Culloden stands in 12 acres of beautiful secluded gardens and woodland and is one of the finest of Belfast Hotels.

Generally speaking, Belfast Hotels are plentiful, ranging from budget to 5-star deluxe and all the city's hotels are of a high standard. On July 15, the Orange Marches take place - an annual stand-off between Catholic Republicans and Protestant Loyalists that can still incite tensions in the city. Consequently, this is an ill-advised time to visit.