The Belfast edition of the Malmaison collection of boutique chain hotels is a welcome addition to our reviews of these trendy venues. Even now, having heard it for some time, the idea of a ’boutique chain’ can still be a little grating. It seems something of an oxymoron, but they may just be a very good thing. Malmaison, along with a number of other chains, have taken the best aspects of boutique hotels – the style, charm and character – and brought them to more destinations than ever before. One of the best things about boutique chains is that being part of a chain, they’re more regulated and organised, so they tend to have better disabled access than some smaller boutique hotels.
The Malmaison Belfast, which is located in a former seed warehouse in the centre of the city, is a good example of this kind of hotel. As is the style in all Malmaison hotels, the décor is funky and vibrant, generally on the right side of quirky. The rooms are comfortable and clean and their bar and restaurant look really cool, even if the food might not necessarily be anything to write home about. All in all, in terms of style and hospitality this is a good addition to this boutique chain.
The hotel is accessible from street level with two sets of wide automatic doors and no steps. They have a lift so you can get to rooms on the first floor. Three rooms have been adapted for less able guests which all have accessible en suites and step free access. The bathrooms have wheel in showers rather than baths. They also have a disabled toilet in the foyer for anyone who is visiting the bar or restaurant.
The Malmaison Belfast is a great modern hotel with the trendiness of a boutique and the accessible trappings you’re traditionally more likely to find in a chain. We give them a provisional 2.5 BBS Ticks.
