Dunluce Lodge delivers distinction on the Causeway Coast

Dunluce Lodge has made a grand entrance into Northern Ireland’s luxury hospitality scene.

As the first five-star property in the region, the Lodge will offer world-class service and seamlessly integrate with the stunning beauty of its surroundings.

Situated just outside Portrush, the lodge has opened its doors as the famous coastal town continues the countdown to hosting The 153rd Open.

With 35 luxury suites, including eight in The Stookan, its private annex for larger groups, Dunluce Lodge also has a restaurant serving à la carte dining and tasting menus, a wine vault and private dining spaces.

Leading the project is Stephen Meldrum, a seasoned hospitality professional with over 30 years of experience. His hands-on approach and deep passion for the industry are central to his vision for Dunluce Lodge, positioning it as a premier destination for discerning travellers.

From blueprint to reality

Stephen Meldrum’s involvement with Dunluce Lodge began 15 months ago when the property was still in its initial stages. “Watching the property come to life from the ground up has been truly rewarding,” Stephen shares. “I’ve been involved in everything from selecting the materials to shaping the overall guest experience. This level of input is rare, and it’s what makes this project so exciting.”

As General Manager, Stephen’s role has extended far beyond managing daily operations. He has played an instrumental part in overseeing everything from architectural decisions to designing the exact atmosphere of the lodge. “I’ve worked closely with builders, contractors, and designers to ensure that every element aligns with our vision for Dunluce Lodge,” he reflects. “It’s been an intense but incredibly fulfilling process.”

The journey to launching Dunluce Lodge has not been without its challenges. The hotel’s construction was an intricate task that required careful attention to detail, but Stephen embraced this challenge and has his sights set firmly forward. “Our priority right now is embedding the right culture so that our team feels confident in delivering the exceptional service we’re aiming for.” With this level of involvement, it’s clear that Dunluce Lodge is much more than just another hospitality venture for Stephen; it’s a labour of love that blends his deep passion for the industry with his vision of creating something extraordinary.

A vision for excellence

Stephen’s vision for Dunluce Lodge is clear: to set the bar for luxury tourism in Northern Ireland, an area that, while rich in natural beauty, has been underserved in terms of high-end accommodation and services. “Northern Ireland has so much untapped potential when it comes to high-end tourism. We want to show that luxury travellers can find something extraordinary here,” he says.

“The key to success in this industry is innovation. We don’t want to be just another hotel; we want to redefine the experience, making sure guests return time and time again.” As such, he’s committed to an evolving concept, where continuous improvement, creative thinking, and guest-centred service will drive the development of the property.

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