The wellness updates you need to know now …
The InterContinental, Dublin
The Spa at InterContinental Dublin is an under-the-radar urban oasis where guests can relax in the heated pool, jacuzzi and relaxation suite, as well as enjoy the privacy of its spa terrace. Available into June is a special ESPA Summer Glow Therapy that includes a detoxifying salt and oil scrub to smooth and clarify the skin, and an Optimal Skin ProFacial with a soothing facial massage and eye treatment using rose quartz crystals to reduce puffiness. All told, it’s 85-minutes of pure bliss. @intercondublin
The Chancery, Dublin
A sense of serenity permeates The Chancery due to its contemporary design aesthetic combined with local artisanal features such as Philippe Starck furniture and reclaimed Connemara marble. There’s also a wellness hub with mini pool, sauna and treatment room with Jo Browne natural skincare collections. A further addition is its new hot tub terrace suites – an ideal way to reset after exploring the city. @thechanceryhoteldublin
Powerscourt Hotel Resort, Wicklow
One of the best value overnight stays is the Serenity Escape at Powerscourt Hotel Resort, bookable until the end of June. This wellness retreat includes two sessions in its impressive thermal suites featuring a crystal-lit steam room, heated tépidariums and Himalayan Salt Suite, designed to support respiratory health and skin clarity. A further tonic is a wander around the grounds that provide great inspiration for garden enthusiasts. @powerscourthotel
Samsú Cabins, Westmeath
Want to go analogue? Irish company Samsú, founded by Rosanna Irwin, has unveiled its second off-grid cabin just 60 minutes outside of Dublin. CUCU is designed to help the “always on” switch off. Rosanna, a self-confessed workaholic and technology addict, explains; “In a world where everything is designed to keep us stimulated, CUCU is designed to do the opposite. It’s a space that gently encourages you to slow down, rest and be present.” Carefully considered details include its intentionally atmospheric architecture, custom roll-top copper bath and private sauna to help guests settle into a slower rhythm. There’s also an analogue kit including a phone lockbox, film camera, cassette player, journals, sleep sprays, dumb phone and a map of the surrounding area. Overnight stays are cosy and include a king-sized bed with luxury linens, logs for the fire, locally roasted coffee and a three-hour session in the forest sauna. @samsucabins
Arunachala, Laois
Just opened, this striking and secluded building was created by renowned architect Michael Rice, who was inspired by the principles of sacred geometry to create cocoon rooms to soothe the senses. As Ireland’s first wellness centre informed by Ayurvedic principles, this is the place to book for traditional therapies and assessment, yoga retreats, therapeutic massage and wellness workshops. @arunachala.ie
No 1 Pery Square, Limerick
Located in Limerick’s historic Georgian Quarter overlooking People’s Park, No 1 Pery Square has launched a “Therapist in Residence” programme in its Heritage Spa – a collaboration with wellness expert Sharon Collopy of The Gentle Lifestyle. Sharon uses a mix of therapies such as breathwork, guided mindfulness, foot or facial reflexology, Reiki, aromatic Indian head massage, Hopi ear candling and more for a full-spectrum experience to leave you feeling lighter, clearer and restored. One of the unique elements of this programme is its personalised Wellness Map offering simple, sustainable practices to carry forward. @oneperysquare
Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, Killarney
For an interesting detox, the new IDome treatment at Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa takes place on a special MLX i3Dome treatment bed during which infrared, plasma and light therapy work together to rejuvenate. There’s also a Spa & Body Wave experience that works through stereo headphones offering mindfulness and meditation. Alongside these new treatments, spa therapists are undergoing specialised oncology training, enabling them to adapt treatments for guests undergoing or recovering from cancer-related care. @aghadoeheights
The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney
Inspired by the landscape of Killarney National Park, the new reception area at The Europe sets the scene for guests who have full access to the 50,000 sq ft ESPA spa, one of the most impressive in Ireland. A must-do is to explore the landscape on one of the hotel’s Haflinger ponies. Walking and cycling routes through Killarney National Park are accessible directly from the hotel grounds too. @theeuropehotelandresort
Shanbally House & Gardens, Tipperary
This Victorian estate restored by the Duggan family is set on 200 acres of private farmland and gardens, where wellness retreats are a focus. Owner Kate Duggan says; “From the beginning, the vision was to restore not just a house, but a working landscape where heritage, wellness and sustainability are part of everyday life.’’ The estate’s organic farm cultivates over 120 medicinal plants alongside a range of vegetables. Guests can enjoy guided walks and herbal workshops, in addition to long-table dinners and chef-led gatherings for private events. @shanballyhouse
Ballymaloe House Hotel, Cork
Ballymaloe House Hotel has a new woodland sauna that fits snugly into the forest setting and comes with thoughtful touches – well water, a glass of water kefir and a sheltered porch area. Pair the sauna session with a dip in the outdoor pool close-by, which is now open all year – perfect for the warmer months to cool off or in the colder weather to escape the sauna for a quick plunge. @ballymaloe_house
