Heat up, cool down, meditate and… breathe
Check in to a wellness retreat at Green Holiday Cottages (4*), a group of cottages at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. Whether you come here just to get away from it all or to take part in their weekend retreats, you'll immediately feel your stresses melt away in these surroundings. This scenic spot sits in a secluded riverside setting near the fishing village of Kilkeel and has access to a number of walking trails in nearby fields. Both Kilbroney Forest Park and the gardens of Castlewellan are within driving distance, while the Mournes themselves provide the fantastic backdrop for those attending the Pilates and Wellness Retreat at the cottages. Not only can you enjoy the ecotherapy on offer at this retreat and connect with nature, but you’ll do so in the company of like-minded people who you will eat and spend some down time with. Food is locally sourced with a focus on fish and vegetarian ingredients.
Further southwest, close to the border and city of Newry, Killeavy Castle (4*) offers top-class treatments and exceptional food in beautifully manicured surroundings in the Ring of Gullion. The castle’s water therapy area with hydro pool, exercise pool and views of the surrounding hills is a great way to reenergise your body before taking to the laconicum to heat and purify toxins. After heating up, you’ll want to cool down under the aroma mist and drench showers before getting a blast of fresh country air in the outdoor hot tub or tylarium.
You might want to learn to breathe again and that’s exactly what you’ll take on at the Awaken Your Senses experience at nearby Xhale. Owner and founder, Ann Ward, has practised meditation for over twenty years and she now creates and curates immersive, mindfulness experiences and retreats using meditation and nature. She will take you on a journey into the soul and help you develop tools to quieten your mind. You’ll also have the chance to take part in some Shinrin-yoku which is Japanese for ‘forest-bathing’.
Take part in a rejuvenating meditative retreat at the historic Elmfield Estate. Jane Shaw, an international educator and psychologist, invites you to the 'Journey Into Stilness' experience where you will immerse yourself in nature, practice mindfulness, and enjoy a locally-sourced meal. Leave feeling recharged, restored and reconnected.
Treetop Spas and Roman baths
Perched above Crawfordsburn Country Park, the Treetop Spa at The Old Inn offers guests unrivalled forest views for a peaceful rural retreat. Begin your spa journey by enjoying hot outdoor bathing in the pool and hot tub, followed by detoxifying, and cleansing the body and mind in their sauna and steam room and cosy up on the heated waterbeds in the covered cabana. Unwind on heated marble loungers whilst you relax in luxury in The Conservatory, stay warm by the woodfire stove as classical music plays softly. A haven of tranquillity and relaxation, the Treetop Spa is a luxurious and exclusive experience.
At The Rabbit Hotel and Retreat in County Antrim, no trip is complete without a trip to The Spa, which exudes a mix of sophisticated luxury and Bohemian glam boasting luxurious facilities, a beach bar and treatments for guests to enjoy during their stay. Relax in the aroma steam room, soak in the Swedish sauna and hot tubs, take a dip in the Roman bath and enjoy the views from the heated pebble beach.
Zen and the art of soaking in a seaweed bath
The award-winning Zen Day Spa is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Newry and specialises in advanced non-surgical skin and body treatments as well as spa treatments. Their facials will have you looking the part for your trip to lovely Newcastle and a good poaching in the Soak Seaweed Baths. Feel all your troubles ease away in your very own steam cabinet before submerging your tired body in the golden goodness of the mineral-rich local seaweed and hot seawater bath.
While you're nearby, the Montalto Estate and its captivating gardens and beautiful walks are well worth the visit. Make sure to pass through the enchanting Orchard sitting within a wildflower meadow and take your time to look around before heading up to Belfast for a night of indulgence.
Head for Strangford Lough to enjoy a special sunrise experience which "will leave you more energized than the strongest cup of espresso you can imagine". Truly find your zen as you start your day by paddling to an island as the sun comes up, enjoying a hatha yoga session on the lawn in an idyllic setting and then enjoy a tasty breakfast before paddling back to base. Suitable for beginners, the sunrise standup paddle boarding & yoga experience is definitely one to try.
City retreats fit for a bishop
Just outside Belfast city centre and in the plush surrounds of Holywood sits the majestic Culloden Estate and Spa (5*). Originally built by the Bishops of Down as a summer retreat, this stunning hotel sits on a slope overlooking Belfast Lough and boasts the most exquisite decor. They have the service and facilities to match, and you’ll have plenty of indulgences to confess by the time you’ve left this place. Not that we’re judging, so jump right in and treat yourself in the hotel spa.
Not too much further down the road, nestled amidst the serene beauty of the countryside, Clandeboye Lodge Hotel offers a luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle. This tranquil retreat is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature. Revitalise your body in a luxurious room on your own terms. With an exclusive 15% off in-room spa packages between January and March 2025, now is the ideal time to indulge in a well-deserved break.
Fermanagh and Tyrone get you to your happy zone
A slightly more upmarket but nonetheless nature-based retreat are the suites at Finn Lough (5*) in Fermanagh. These guys like to mix it up a little when it comes to providing accommodation and you can expect to find waterside cottages and lakeside lodges as well as quirky bubble domes in this wonderful space. With outdoor jacuzzis and spa treatments available at the Forest Spa Trail, you can take it easy while your fellow travellers go fishing or take a pedal craft and explore the wonders of Lough Erne.
Of course, no visit to this part of the world would be complete without a visit to the award-winning Corick House Hotel and Spa (4*) in Tyrone. This spot is nestled away in the secluded Clogher Valley and is a tasteful mix of old and new. With no fewer than eight luxurious treatment rooms and a wealth of luxury treatments on offer you’ll soon discover why it was awarded the coveted Spa Hotel of the Year at the 2019 Irish Hotel Awards.
Corralea Activity Centre, also in County Fermanagh is an ideal place for nature lovers, social gatherings or memorable day experiences. At the Forest Eco Spa, relax and enjoy the views of Lough Macnean in their Outdoor spa which includes a Nordic sauna, wood-fired hot tub and relaxation pod.
Calm on the Causeway Coast
Admire the epic views of the Gortmore Cliffs and waterfalls while you kick back in the Seaside HotBox on Benone Strand. For the thrill seekers, the wild Irish sea invites you to take a dip and feel the adrenaline pumping through your veins, before you enter the peaceful serenity of the sauna.
At the nearby Crindle Stables, horses are your guide on the magnificent two-and-a-half-hour Beach Ride. You’ll get to know your trusty steed, learn to stop, steer, trot and canter before riding along the wonderful Downhill Beach for a date with the setting sun.
You can finish it all off with the Mussenden Unwind - Fire & Feast. This unique experience offers a mix of foraging and fine dining followed by a dip in the ocean all under the watchful eye of the Mussenden Temple. Then dooze off in the enchanting treetop lodges of Burrenmore Nest (5*) and be captivated by the forest views as you gaze out the panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows. You will be lulled to sleep by the peace and tranquillity of the woodlands.
At Wildbay Retreats enjoy deep healing holistic therapies and richly nurturing in-house cooking at this restorative location along the Causeway Coastal Route. With unique, luxury, mindfulness retreats, through merging holistic practices including meditation, gentle yoga, walking, and exploration. Whether you wish to embrace a new experience, relax into the moment, or find a renewed sense of purpose, their retreats are for you and are suitable for all levels.
Revive and thrive is the mantra for your wellness adventure in Northern Ireland and with so many ways and places to treat your mind, body and spirit, there’s plenty of reasons to come back for even more of the really good stuff.
The Byre is a 2 bedroom cottage which can sleep up to 4 people. The Byre has a lowered cooking and food preparation area in the kitchen so it suitable for someone who has limited mobility and who may require the use of wheelchair.
Kilbroney Park Forest features riverside walks and an arboretum. There is a two-mile forest drive which showcases panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. There is also a Play Park with children's play area and tennis courts, an Information area and a café all on site.
Castlewellan Forest Park boasts a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27 km of mountain bike trails, nature play perfect for the kids, an on-site multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, making it a must-visit for all ages.
Welcome to Killeavy Castle Estate, the perfect antidote to the modern fast paced world. Named winner of the Luxury Castle Hotel (Europe) Award at the prestigious World Luxury Awards 2021, it’s the ideal place to escape and unwind, and is located just 10 minutes outside Newry City.
Deepen your Mindfulness Practice through forest bathing in the magic of the Ring of Gullion.
The Old Inn is like home away from home, with personable service and an easy-going atmosphere. Guests can kick off their shoes and get comfortable in a guestroom that suits their mood, or amp up the luxury with suites that come with their own private hot tub. Check out the brand new Treetop Spa which is a haven of tranquility, relaxation and exclusive for hotel residents only.
Located lakeside in Templepatrick, just 20-minutes from Belfast City and 10 minutes from Belfast International Airport, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat was named Best Place to Stay in Northern Ireland for 2024 by The Times & The Sunday Times. The AA Four Star hotel promises to give you all the creature comforts you love housed in beautifully designed spaces with a few quirks along the way.
Soak offers customers a unique experience, a place to be spoiled or to simply ease the body and soothe the mind. Relax in a silky hot seaweed bath in our award winning bathhouse or Revive with a sensual spa treatment in our bespoke treatment rooms.
Montalto Estate in Ballynahinch is a mystical and enchanting estate, set in magnificent natural surroundings. Visitor experience includes access to the estate's beautiful gardens; historic walks and trails and an exciting play area where children can engage, explore and learn.
Standing high on the wooded slopes of the Holywood hills, overlooking Belfast Lough and the Co. Antrim coastline, is the magnificent Culloden Estate and Spa, one of the most prestigious 5 star hotels in Northern Ireland.
A place apart. Clandeboye Lodge is the warm welcome of Northern Ireland. The comfortable and cosy corner you won’t want to leave. Charm and service from dawn until dusk.
This artistic workshop involves all the senses and helps you find your inner creative voice. You’ll be working towards the creation of your own masterpiece, which once home will always remind you of your time spent on the beautiful Causeway Coast.
Crindle stables overlooks the beautiful Binevenagh Mountain. Our adrenaline filled and relaxing activities include themed fun days, bespoke experiences - nerf and unicorn, pony treks, Game of Thrones® locations beach rides and relaxing picnic treks.
Explore Northern Ireland with Crindle Bespoke at Crindle Stables, offering exclusive horseback rides in stunning landscapes. Whether a seasoned rider or first-timer, experience beaches, countryside, or private estates, with tailored options like picnics, dining, tea, whiskey, or photography. The Patterson family provides warm hospitality, making it perfect for elopements, family adventures, or bucket list experiences. No riding experience needed – just bring your sense of adventure!
Immerse yourself in the natural sights, sounds and tastes of the beautiful Causeway Coast. In the shadow of the beautiful Mussenden Temple, you'll be welcomed by Claire from Mussenden Sea Salt to an experience that marries the ancient with the modern, and which promotes reconnection with nature, awakening your senses and offering a sense of wellbeing.
Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.
Situated one mile from the Donegal/Fermanagh Border, Finn Lough offers the ideal setting from which to explore both counties. For those who are keen to stay put and relax there is plenty on offer within the 75 acre island resort.
The Elements Trail Spa is a journey for the senses. Book your two hours experience where you can enjoy the unique spa experience with bespoke spaces dotted around the waters edge.
The luxury Spa facility at Corick House offers guests a retreat from the stress of everyday life. Enjoy our relaxing thermal area, where you will delight in a state of the art hydro therapy massage pools with jets of therapeutic water.
Limber up as the sun comes up. Glide across the peaceful waters of Strangford Lough at dawn and greet the day ahead with a guided yoga flow.
Corralea offers a range of outdoor activities & self-catering cottages on the same site. All experiences are eco-friendly to safeguard the quality of the water and the peacefulness which surrounds Lough Macnean. Corralea is open all year round, although some of the activities are only available May-Sep.
Slieve Gullion Forest Park is in the heart of the Ring of Gullion. The Ring of Gullion is a unique geological landform – unparalleled elsewhere in Ireland or the UK – and was the first ring dyke in the world to be geologically mapped. The ring of low, rugged hills forms a ‘rampart’ around the heather-clad Slieve Gullion.
These treetop boutique lodges are surrounded by 82 hectares of forest park within the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, moments away from Benone Beach and the stunning National Trust Downhill and Mussenden Temple estate.
With tranquil walks through peaceful meadows and wooded glens and a stunning waterfall, Crawfordsburn Country Park provides a relaxing natural retreat.
"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea" (Percy French) The popular song has made the Mournes the best known mountains in Ireland. Distinctive and self contained, they are tucked away in the south east corner of Northern Ireland. Dominated by Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak, this area of outstanding natural beauty is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
The wonder of warm. The comfort of cold. Repeat for a natural rush. Unlock your natural happy with HotBox, the original Irish/Scandi sauna experience. Whether you choose HotBox Seaside or HotBox Countryside, this incredible experience will release a flood of endorphins that will sweep your mind and body with a world of good. With evidence humans have created and lived with different kinds of sweatboxes and saunas for millennia, you will realise how much you need HotBox in your life. You were made for this.
Benone Strand, multiple recipient of the European Blue Flag and Seaside Award, is a must-see when visiting the area. With seven miles of golden sand and a magnificent back drop of mountain and cliff scenery and stunning views.
Downhill is a golden sandy beach stretching from Downhill Cliffs in the east towards Magilligan Point. It's overlooked by one of Northern Ireland's leading landmarks, Mussenden Temple, and benefits from classic views of the Donegal Coast and beyond.
