Fodor's Expert Review The G Hotel

G is for "glamour"—or for "good grief" (depending on your taste for over-the-top decor)—at this flamboyant player at the top end of Galway's hotel scene, whose architects worked with star hat designer Philip Treacy (a native of Galway) to create an interior that is every bit as fanciful as Treacy's hats. The G Hotel's industrial architecture and setting in a large-scale strip mall on the edge of the city is as incongruous as its bold colors (think purple, black, and pink) etched into west of Ireland motifs, but guests still swarm to savor the views over Lough Atalia. Its five-star facilities appeal to the weekend getaway brigade in search of a stylish retreat close to Galway City. A major draw is the mood layout of the reception lounge areas, which are partitioned with a quiet reflection area (or for catching up on work), which is partially separated from afternoon-tea chatter. Beyond the glam veneer is friendly Irish hospitality from reception on up. Bedrooms offer a clean-lined retreat from the deep-purple public areas.