Wellness Heaven at BrookLodge

If it’s a weekend of top notch organic food, restful sleep and whole body wellness that the doctor has ordered, we’re pretty sure we’ve found the perfect solution: BrookLodge at Macreddin Village, which is just over an hour’s drive from Dublin’s fair city.

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the rolling Wicklow hills, BrookLodge is home to one of the most satisfying spas we’ve yet to experience Ireland. It’s big enough to have some peace and quiet even when there’s other people present, and the outdoor hot tub is reason enough to get up early. Nothing quite compares to spending a crisp, sunny, autumn morning plunged in a warm sea of rejuvinative bubbles. In fact, looking out over a grey, rain-drenched, Dun Laoghaire, I think I’ll mentally transport myself back right now.

Determined to find some deep relaxation, after one of the best sleeps I’d had in ages followed by the necessary Full Irish Breakfast, I had the pleasure of enjoying a Baborganic massage. For those who aren’t familiar, Babor is a skincare range originating in Germany that prides itself on their organic (tying in nicely with BrookLodge’s organic ethos) natural ingredients and compatibility with all skin types. All of the key active raw materials are sourced straight from the Alps, so no yucky chemicals here. I chose to have the Glacier Crystal Touch Massage and let me tell you, it is the business. Prepare for complete and total relaxation as your body is warmed up head to toe before the cold crystals are massaged into the skin to promote circulation, release unwanted toxins and do away with pent up tension. Were it not for the ceiling above my head, I’d have floated off towards the mountains.

Once I’d brought myself back to Earth, it was time for a healthy, all organic lunch out in the gardens as the September sun warmed our faces. Surrounded by relaxed faces and stunning scenery, could I really be so close to the hustle and bustle of the big smoke? Once tea was finished, it was time for a stroll around the grounds, taking in the tiny chapel, the pretty bridge and the calming green lawns, as BrookLodge’s legion of chickens went about their business under our feet, more than happy to say hello. And don’t miss the gorgeous, friendly collie you’ll find napping by the fire in the cosy, candlelit lobby.

If it’s a chance to take your foot off the gas, set yourself back to zero and feed your mind and body with the wellness it deserves, this organic oasis is well worthy of your time. In fact if you’re keen to get down there soon, they’ve just introdced the 30-20-10 offer which means you can enjoy any 30 minute treatment for the paltry price of 20 Euro (Sunday to Thursday). And you can also get €10 off any one hour treatments or €10 off any product. Hurrah!

B&B rates are available from just €60 pps. Call 0402-36444 or email [email protected] to avail of this residents only offer. T&C’s apply. And don’t forget to pay the award winning Strawberry Tree restaurant a visit.

http://www.brooklodge.com/

@CarolineForan