A few miles west of Europe’s oil capital is this notably well-run, unpretentious and, indeed, award-winning Holiday Inn. It’s a pleasant big building with new-look HI branding. A few things make it stand out. Parking is easy and free – can be £16 a day in the city. Staff are friendly, motivated and helpful. Food and drink: the this-just-works Glentanar lounge is spacious, comfy, easy-going; huge range of tasty meals on the go all day. Luigi's restaurant offers fresh, quality Italian and seafood dining. Hotel’s ‘new generation’, air-conditioned rooms, especially the Executive rooms of which there are 13, offer great beds, 30 mins free wi-fi, 24hr room service, notably good bathrooms. Locally, the hotel is highly popular and its function suite often hosts acclaimed tribute nights. What's on.
Need to know
> Accommodation is over 3 floors and offers standard, executive or suite options
> There’s a noticeable upgrade when you opt for an executive room: we recommend you go for it
> Upper level rooms are possibly best, but it’s a quiet area; some have bigger windows: ask
> Executives gain super king bed, mini bar, toiletries, leather desk chair, seating area, robes
> There’s one suite – essentially a very large exec room with screened office area
> Bathrooms are in grey marble effect; well lit, practical (i.e. shaving mirrors in all) yet stylish
> Foyer is smart though quite small; the Glentanar lounge has spacious booths and leather sofas
> Luigi’s is smart-casual with excellent staff, nice touches (i.e. rack of artisan oils brought to table)
> There is a gym; saunas in changing rooms; treatments are available – though do book ahead
> For weddings / events, the impressive Balmoral suite has a striking high-tech lighting set up
We love…
… Those super king beds in exec rooms, and the headboards with red glow backlight in all
… The Glentanar lounge bar with its lively buzz, laid back feel and striking food choice
… Bathrooms with their practical mirrors and showers: style is fine but functionality a must!
… Free, safe parking which is a real stress-free bonus
… Professional, friendly staff – especially in the bars and restaurants