‘I’ve visited many spas as an editor, this is the best in Ireland right now’
If you're in need of a luxurious reset, Galgorm Resort should be top of your list. Just 30 minutes from Belfast, and two and a half hours from Dublin, it’s nestled within 450 acres of serene parkland, with the enchanting River Maine weaving through its grounds. It has 125 guestrooms, including unique accommodations like Log Cabins and Forest Dens where we stayed and an unparalleled Thermal Spa Village – the first of its kind in Ireland.
Our Forest Den accommodation was a short ten-minute walk from the hotel, overlooking the river. These cosy, pine-sheltered cabins are newly opened and beautifully decorated – perfect for those seeking tranquillity and privacy, away from the hotel. The special bit is that each den is complete with its own private “boho backyard” featuring a wood-fired hot tub and sauna. You light these yourselves, with wood and fire lighters provided, but they do require a degree of patience (we waited over 90 mins). My recommendation is that you open a bottle of wine and lean into watching the river flow by while you wait for it to warm.
The jewel of Galgorm is undoubtedly the Thermal Village, a sprawling spa complex so vast that we had to consult a map on multiple occasions. Having visited many spas over my time as an editor, I can say with confidence that Galgorm is the best spa in Ireland right now. I even booked it for my best friend’s hen for later this year.
Situated across three gardens (Alpine, Riverside and Walled) are multiple saunas, hot tubs and quiet, private areas overlooking the river. There is a snow cabin, a Celtic Sauna, a River House relaxation space, indoor and outdoor pools, a Vitality Pool, cabanas, a Salt Cave, a plunge pool and experience showers. There are also treatment rooms and a calming spa restaurant. You will have no difficulty finding your own perfect, tranquil area in which to unwind… your only issue will be seeing it all. The good news is that the Thermal Village is open until 10pm and access is available to day guests as well as residents of the hotel.
When we were torn away from the Thermal Village, we ate very well during our stay, visiting Fratelli’s restaurant on our first evening and the River Room for breakfast the following morning. Fratellis is an Italian-style establishment featuring simple and satisfying dishes covering pasta, pizza, steaks and seafood. Breakfast in the River Room was heavenly, with sunlight streaming through the conservatory overlooking the river, the food as well as the service was excellent.
Galgorm is special. It’s ideal for a romantic getaway or a girls’ weekend. Bring whoever you love and want to while away an afternoon with, sipping bubbles in a fluffy robe. I’m already looking forward to returning.
Dominique McMullan was a guest of Galgorm Hotel and Resort.
A one night stay in a Forest Den with Bed and Breakfast in Sept 2024 is currently €355.45.
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