Wellness & Spas

The best spas in Ireland for 2024

Grounded in nature, Ireland’s wellness offering proves increasingly bountiful
The best spas in Ireland for 2024

Steeped in culture and home to lush fertile countryside and some of the most dramatic coastline imaginable, it’s hardly surprising that Ireland’s spas are holding their own on the world stage. With mineral-rich waters, hand-harvested seaweed and native peat being a big part of the Irish tradition, the country’s wild Atlantic Way which follows the country’s Western perimeter, is home to some truly outstanding hotels and retreat destinations, while inland and along the Eastern shoreline a clutch of high-end destinations are taking their rightful places on the world stage. But dramatic views aside, when it comes to choosing a spa in Ireland, it is the people – their skills, empathy and care – that truly sets these destinations apart.

  • The Merrion hotel in ireland
    Ruth Maria Murphy

    Spa at The Merrion Hotel

    Best for: sophisticated urbanites

    Exuding period charm, award-winning cuisine and one of the best contemporary Irish art collections around, The Merrion Hotel continues to rate amongst the top boutique hotels in the world. Located just steps from the city’s cultural, shopping and entertainment attractions, including the National Gallery and legendary St Stephen’s Green at the top of Grafton Street, it is the perfect place to explore the capital city.

    Tucked away on the lower ground floor, the soft lighting and neutral colour palette of the cosy Spa & Health Club offer a much-needed respite from city life. With six treatment rooms, a pool, sauna, steam room, gym and hair salon, the spa offers face and body treatments featuring British skincare brand ESPA, along with the cult results-driven Biologique Recherche from France – think rejuvenating and lifting facials, deep tissue massages, scrubs, Indian Head massage and deeply nourishing hair and scalp treatments – all delivered by the expert hands of spa’s immensely-talented therapist team, Do take some time to cosy up in an Aran blanket in the warm relaxation room after your treatment.

    The hotel and spa packages are worth checking out, as is the art-inspired Afternoon Tea with audio guided tour of the famed Art Collection. Plant-based enthusiasts are also in for a treat here with a delicious seasonal vegan afternoon tea and a dinner menu inspired by Irish vegan chef and author Holly White. Kate O'Brien

    Address: Merrion Street Upper, Dublin 2
    Website: merrionhotel.com

  • Rainer Hofmann

    ESPA at The Europe

    Best for: Finding ease

    On the soothing shores of Killarney’s Lough Leane and framed by the snow-capped McGillycuddy Reeks mountains – a setting equally breath taking on cold frosty days as on warm, bright summer evenings, ESPA at The Europe is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, trusted therapists and utterly mesmerising location. Featuring thermal suites, outdoor vitality pools, shimmering steam rooms, glass fronted saunas, ice fountains, heated marble loungers, you could comfortably spend the day in a bathrobe, drifting between hot tubs and skin nourishing therapies, before snoozing in the cosiest relaxation pods yet as the sun starts to sink into the mountains. Places like this were designed for busy minds to find ease. The comprehensive offerings include facials, hot-stone massages, scrubs and so much more, all expertly delivered with that same warmth that the country is renowned for. More serious skin enthusiasts can avail of nutrient-rich LED-powered facials formulated to renew the skin from a cellular level. Bedrooms are spacious and comfortable with many capitalising on those immense views, with a range of restaurant options available catering to all guest needs. Kate O'Brien

    Address: Fossa, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland.
    Website: theeurope.com

  • Ruth Calder-Potts

    Breac House

    Best for: The ultimate escape

    This remote inn on the far edge of Ireland’s north west coastline is one of those rare ‘thin’ places of Celtic mythology - a place of healing and renewal where there is a mystery in the landscape and where the distance between heaven and earth collapses. With just four bright airy bedrooms, all with floor-to ceiling windows, Breac is dedicated to the finest local craft, food and culture, with oak floods and comfortable interiors designed by a curated clutch of Irish craftspeople.

    While not a ‘spa’ in the modern sense, Breac encompasses the essence of the spa experience in the most authentic way with all guests offered a nourishing seaweed bathing ritual (which can be followed with the local Sliabh Liag Gin distilled using seaweed harvested during the full moon). The cosy wood-fired sauna (for 2) overlooking the Atlantic is inspired by the ancient Irish ‘sweat house’ (using just stone, wood and water) and is the perfect spot to soak up the mesmeric views. The Wellwell shower just outside uses water from the well below to cool the body  – a press of the foot on the pedal and the freshest water imaginable instantly gushes upwards from the earth.

    The food is delicious. The locally sourced breakfast served on a hand-crafted wooden tray is delivered through a Japanese-inspired hatch beside the room entrance. Lunch is super-nutritious home-made brown bread served with local artisan meats and cheese and chutneys, neatly packed in handmade backpacks, to be enjoyed while exploring the deserted white sandy beaches and craggy coastline. Dinner is left to guests own devices.  Use this time to fully slow down and nourish the soul which, after all, lies at the heart of the best spa experience. Kate O'Brien

    Address: Horn Head, Lurgabrack, Dunfanaghy, Co. Donegal, F92 YC56
    Website: breac.house

  • Ashford Castle, Co. Mayo

    Best for: all-out indulgence

    Once home to the Guinness family, Ashford Castle is nestled on a thriving, 350-acre estate in Cong, Co. Mayo, on the country’s Western fringes. This centuries-old castle has long enjoyed a peerless reputation as one of the country’s finest. Nearby lies the rural village of Cong (of the 1952 film The Quiet Man fame). Ashford showcases the best of traditional Irish craftsmanship and opulent interior design, with glittering Waterford and Donegal crystal chandeliers and antiques and artwork peppered throughout - all subtly balanced by modern conveniences, delicious food and warm Irish hospitality.

    Located in a former conservatory, the decadent pool features a white-and-gold tile mosaic entitled “Tree of Life” that is best admired when propped poolside on the marshmallow-soft loungers. Using reputable global brands including Natura Bisse, Elemis and Ireland’s own VOYA seaweed products and treatments the spa offers a comprehensive menu of cleansing and nourishing facials, massage and scrubs, with the results-driven Natura Bisse Diamond Life Infusion Facial being hugely popular with guests. This ultimate skin renewal comprises triple cleansing, deep exfoliation, hands-on massage and a restorative mask to revitalise and nourish tired skin. Outside, enjoy woodland falconry jaunts, horse and bike rides, archery, tennis, salmon fishing along the River Cong and golfing on the hotel’s nine-hole course, working up a healthy appetite for dinner at the celebrated George V Dining Room. Kate O'Brien

    Address: Ashford Castle, Leaf Island, Cong, Co. Mayo, Ireland
    Website: ashfordcastle.com

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    Brooks and Co Spa, Glasson Lakehouse, Co. Westmeath

    Best for: millennial spoils

    Set within the boundaries of Glasson Lakehouse – an industrial-chic cabin in the lush midlands especially popular with younger generations seeking a break with friends or significant others – the luxe Brooks and Co Spa is one of the cosiest hideaways in the country. With five generously sized treatment rooms, the spa is warm and inviting, with low wood beamed ceilings, sinkable armchairs and the best massage beds and towels yet (you need to try them to believe it). Ground Wellbeing products and treatments are centre stage here. The creative genius of Irish spa aficionado Peigin Crowley, Ground is deservedly having its moment on the global spa stage as the products overflow with the very best natural, ethical ingredients (with emphasis on locally sourced where possible). The oils are divine, so allow time for their far-reaching benefits to truly soak in post treatment in the snug botanical-themed relaxation room overlooking Lough Ree. Then make for your (pre-booked) hot tub session, complete with a glass of prosecco or rosé, or enjoy a dip in the outdoor year-round heated pool. Restful sleep comes easy in the large comfy beds. Kate O'Brien

    Address: Lakehouse, Killinure, Glasson, Co. Westmeath, N37 HX45, Ireland
    Website: glassonlakehouse.ie

  • PAUL LEHANE

    The Spa at Adare Manor, Co. Limerick

    Best for: decadent decompression

    Nestled in 840 acres of parkland, this elegant Neo-Gothic country pile, (obtained by Irish property magnate and racehorse owner JP McManus in 2014) continues to draw the tourists. The Tom Fazio-designed golf course (home of the 2027 Ryder Cup), the stately, super spacious bedrooms and the residents-only spa, located on the castle’s lower level are major draws.
    Featuring cult British brand 111SKIN (a firm favourite of leading dermatologists and plastic surgeons), the advanced cosmeceutical formulas work in tandem with cutting-edge technologies to balance, refine and sculpt the skin. The potent 90-minute Energy Sculpting Face Lift combines deep cleansing with EMS and radiofrequency, with bespoke facial massage and multi-masking that visibly lifts and refines the skin with immediate results. While there, avail of the Infrared sauna (believed to help boost skin health and enhance circulation) while enjoying views of the River Maigue. Across from the castle, The Padel Club offers two custom-built indoor padel courts, a gym, yoga studio and 17-metre pool with sauna and steam room. And for those wanting to perfect their golf swing before tee off – choose from the 174 golf courses available on demand in the Sports Simulation Room. Kate O'Brien

    Address: Adare, Co. Limerick, V94 W8WR, Ireland
    Website: adaremanor.com

  • The Spa at Cashel Palace, Co. Tipperary

    Best for: luxurious lounging

    Set at the foot of the legendary Rock of Cashel, the palace was originally built for the Archbishops of Cashel & Emly in 1732 and was home to high-ranking clergy for over 200 years, before being meticulously restored into a luxury hotel in 1959. Luxurious and decadent in every respect, with opulent artworks and chandeliers, the hotel has hosted the likes of Princess Diana, Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy and continues to entice celebrities with its unique setting, excellent seasonal cuisine, comfortable spacious rooms and amenities. 

    Overlooking the colourful walled garden, the soft shades of taupe, pearl and mink in the spa instantly instil a sense of ease. Comprising three treatment rooms, plus one larger couples suite, the spa partners with Bamford, Valmont and Voya skincare (from Ireland’s Western coastline). While the therapy menu is extensive, the 90-minute Bamford Ritual is a highlight. This fusion of expertly delivered Japanese shiatsu massage, tension relieving Swedish massage, heated chakra stones (for gentle abdominal massage), Indian head massage and a gentle hydrating facial is destined to soothe and nourish body and mind. Guests can also avail of the extensive thermal facilities including Himalayan salt wall sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and indoor/outdoor pool. While there, submerge yourself in a native peat mud bath or try a hand-harvested Atlantic seaweed bath on the outdoor deck to retain that radiant mineral-rich glow. And as the sun starts to set over the soft Irish countryside cosy up by the crackling hearth in the Bishop’s Buttery, or the garden terrace (when the weather allows). Kate O'Brien

    Address: Main Street, St. Dominick’s Abbey, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, E25 EF61, Ireland
    Website: cashelpalacehotel.ie

  • Finn Lough, Co. Fermanagh

    Best for: forest bathing

    Finn Lough in Co. Fermanagh offers a non-traditional spa experience in Northern Ireland. The self-guided spa journey embarked upon in reusable aqua shoes and hooded towelling robes, spans a U-shaped private trail. Visitors are instructed to venture through the forest, stopping at a series of architecturally pleasing cabins along The Elements Spa Trail. Designed to create a sense of quiet calm, get lost (hopefully only metaphorically) in your silent surroundings over a two-hour session. A rustic, no-frills experience, visitors can choose between Day Spa escapism or making a night of it by opting for a Spa & Stay package, checking into a Bubble Dome or Lakeside Villa. Trail-goers are asked to leave their belongings in the changing room lockers before heading, twigs and stones underfoot, to the Float Room, your first stop. Located in a small, putty-walled room, float about in shallow water, realised by the power of Epsom salts. Next, feel the heat at the lakeside Finish Sauna, then take the plunge and swim in Lough Finn, surrounded by tall rushes. Alternatively, you can cool off under an outdoor copper shower. Inhale the scents of the forest at the Aromatherapy Sauna, a sensory experience utilising citrus fruits and herbs found locally. A hot(ish) tub helps relax muscles, after which comes the relaxation room, with views of the forestscape and plenty of reading materials. Building on this holistic experience, a comprehensive indoor spa will open at Finn Lough in 2023, housed in a large, centrally positioned geodome.

    Address: 37 Letter Road, Aghnablaney, Enniskillen BT93 2BB
    Website: finnlough.com

  • SÁMAS Spa, The Park Kenmare, Co. Kerry

    Best for: haute-holistic hangs

    Sandwiched between the Ring of Kerry and the Ring of Beara peninsulas, The Park Kenmare rests amidst unspoilt, verdant scenes. London-based BOS Studio (whose founder is Ireland-born Bryan O’Sullivan) has redesigned the ground level of the hotel, namely The Dining Room and Drawing Room, in a medley of woods punctuated with delicate glasswork and finished in a pleasing palette of mint green and rose to create a near ethereal space. At the far end of the hotel, the nurturing SÁMAS Spa presents another aesthetic entirely. The pared-back space places nature and connection at the centre of the spa-going experience, and unlike at other spas, guests are not required to reserve their specific treatment until arrival. Choose from eight Essence of SÁMAS body treatments, enriched by Bamford’s body and face offering, based on how you feel on the day. The SÁMAS Experience extends over three hours and includes the use of the thermal areas, complete with an aroma steam room, ice fountain, tropical shower, and outdoor infinity pool which overlooks the woods and Kenmare Bay. The Relaxation Room is primed for vegetating, aided by handcrafted, ash day beds, while the nearby stainless steel 25-metre swimming pool provides a leisure element for those needing an energy shift. A slew of complimentary activities – from yoga and hiking to breathing techniques – are also available.

    Address: Kenmare, Co. Kerry, V93 X3XY, Ireland
    Website: parkkenmare.com

  • Barry Murphy Photography

    The Spa, Salon, and Health Club at The Shelbourne, Co. Dublin

    Best for: city slickers

    Right in the centre of town, The Spa, Salon, and Health Club at The Shelbourne is a sanctuary for urbanites. With a separate street entrance to The Shelbourne Hotel, on the ground level you’ll clock the all-white Salon (the slickest portion of the space), which specialises in hair and nail services. An 18-metre swimming pool, thermal facilities, and gym (functional, if a little dated) are located on the same level as changing facilities downstairs. Upstairs, the decadent, high-ceilinged relaxation room faces out onto leafy St. Stephen’s Green. Follow through to one of seven smart treatment rooms, where alternative and specialised treatments are administered using ELEMIS and Irish-owned Ground Wellbeing. Spanning “facials to purifying body wraps, intense body scrubs, and intricate hand and foot care”, the spa menu is well-rounded. The 60- or 90-minute holistic treatment, The Shelbourne Ground Sleep Ritual, is the ultimate stress reliever. Exclusive to The Spa, it uses 100% natural aromatherapy oils and balms (in “potent aromas of organic geranium and jasmine”) to guide the mind and body into a deep, restful state and features some gentle breathwork – ask for Sade.

    Address: 27 St Stephen’s Green, Dublin 2, D02 K224, Ireland
    Website: theshelbourne.com

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    Well in the Garden at Cliff at Lyons, Co. Kildare

    Best for: natural delights

    Squirrelled at the rear of the Cliff at Lyon’s estate, it’s a short walk (past feted Aimsir, the hotel’s two-Michelin starred, all-island restaurant) to Well in the Garden, Cliff at Lyons’s spa. The two-storey Carriage House comprises five treatment rooms, which are cosy and simple, and a manicure/pedicure suite. Results-focused treatments use natural products, muscle power, and expert therapist know-how. Their Peat for the Feet treatment ‘uses organic peat sourced from the ancient bogs of Co. Laois’, while a Swedish massage here (choose from 30 or 50 minutes) can be relaxing or invigorating based on your needs – choose from muscle-warming body oil (a blend of rosemary and arnica) or a comforting body oil of rose and oakmoss. Long, gliding strokes are incorporated into this effective treatment, which ends with a head massage. Post-treatment, unwind in the high-ceiling relaxation room, decorated in the colours of its surrounds – taupe, pistachio, fern – in view of the burning fire.

    Outdoors, the Thermal Suite and Garden Room is a secluded area where you can bathe in a natural copper tub stewed with salts and essential oils; the effects of the skin-plumping organic seaweed bath achieve their maximum gloopy benefits when the seaweed is released from its netting. The Village Thermal (available complimentary to hotel guests) offers a selection of heat and bathing options, including barrel saunas and great big hot tubs set within a nicely planted space. The sounds of birdsong and rustling leaves further aid relaxation.

    Address: Lyons Road, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, W23 H3NP, Ireland
    Website: cliffatlyons. ie

  • Ballyfin Demesne, Co. Laois

    Best for: blissful beauty

    This magnificent country estate, surrounded by 614 acres of parkland, is cloaked in a hushed calm and possesses an almost meditative quality. Natural beauty abounds at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains with grottos, follies, and walled gardens sprinkled about the domain. A nine-year restoration has brought Ballyfin Demesne to its current, gleaming state and guests are invited to take a daily guided house tour at 4pm to learn more about the hotel’s history. With just 20 bedrooms, there is a real sense of intimacy at Ballyfin; the calming, blue-toned junior suite, Lady Caroline Coote, wins hearts with its canopied bed and views of the expansive, hand-dug lake.

    Your spa therapist will collect you from your bedroom and take you down to the spa, which is located on the lower level. One-night, full-board relaxation packages are available, and include a one-hour massage or facial. Exclusive to guests, the sizeable spa is flooded with natural light and colourful contemporary art. Ballyfin’s treatment brochure includes bespoke facials and a variety of a massages, from the relaxing to the tension-relieving. Treatments are fuelled by Pevonia and are tailored to the individual. There’s a 14-metre heated indoor pool, dressed with gold mouldings, which overlooks the courtyard garden; herbal teas and juices can be delivered to your preferred perch on request. Additionally, you’ll find a neighbouring sauna and low-lit vitality pool, which is ‘equipped with a mixture of air- and water-based features’, with ‘mounted hydro jets adding vigorous leg and back massage to your experience’. A small, fully equipped gym is just next door, and a personal training service is available on request for a charge. Other estate activities to get hearts racing include clay pigeon shooting, archery, horse riding, and falconry.

    Address: Ballyfin, County Laois, R32 PN34 Ireland
    Website: ballyfin.com