Experience the unforgettable
Wind down and allow stress to melt away, with a stay at the award-winning Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort
With tranquil surroundings, genuine hospitality and a serene spa experience, it is no surprise that Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort in Ballymena, Co Antrim was awarded ‘Global Luxury Spa Hotel of the Year’ in 2018 at the prestigious World Luxury Hotel Awards.
“In the past 10 years, The Resort has invested over £35 million, with plans for further expansion of over £14 million over the next 3-5 years,” says Colin Johnston, General Manager. “The major extension will include an additional 64 bedrooms, an exclusive rooftop spa, additional spa garden and executive lounge.”
The Resort is already home to a selection of guest rooms and lodges, and the jewel in the crown; the unique Thermal Spa Village, which is the first of its kind in Ireland. A commitment to unveiling unique experiences, such as the Serenity Garden & Celtic Sauna Infusion, cements their reputation as one of the UK and Ireland’s leading spa destinations, being named one of the six best spas in Ireland in the 2019 Irish Independent Reader Travel Awards.
A smorgasbord of heated and cool spa experiences awaits, including saunas, steam rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, snail shower, heated loungers and famed snow cabin. Perched on the banks of the River Maine, with an unmistakeably scenic woodland backdrop, an hour in one of Galgorm’s eco-friendly wood-fire tubs is simply blissful. When you have worked up a hunger, Elements Spa Cafe house refreshing drinks, indulgent snacks and nourishing nibbles for those feeling particularly virtuous.
Remarking on the latest additions Colin explains, “We have just introduced The Skin Clinic alongside a fully equipped Fitness Suite and blow-dry bar to really elevate our Spa experience.
“Galgorm offers an unparalleled golf experience. It is ideally located to play some of the world’s best links courses including Royal Portrush, home to the 148th Open only 30 minutes from The Resort, and our Championship Parkland Golf Course. Galgorm Castle is home to the European Tours NI Open.”
Hidden gems
Within close proximity of both Belfast airports and the stunning Causeway Coastal Route, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort is not only the perfect base from which to explore the region’s most renowned attractions, but also some lesser-known gems. Both the region and the Resort itself offer many authentic and unique experiences to make your stay a memorable one.
Less than an hour from the Resort is the spectacular coastal walk, The Gobbins. This iconic cliff path brings visitors to the edge of the Irish Sea to experience the dramatic coastline. Other local immersive experiences worth a visit include Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best preserved medieval castles in Ireland, the award-winning Whitehead Railway Museum and the opportunity to try your hand at the traditional skill of blacksmithing at the Hot Milk Forge.
Elegant dining
After a day in the Spa and exploring the region, guests can expect a meal that is just as indulgent as the spa treatments, with Head Chef Chris Rees at the helm. The Resort’s 3 AA Rosette River Room Restaurant was named the Best Luxury Hotel Restaurant at the World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards 2018.
The River Room restaurant uses seasonal ingredients sourced from the Resort’s own kitchen garden, as well as local artisan suppliers. Guests can also enjoy an array of cuisine from authentic BBQ smokehouse cuisine at Castle Kitchen + Bar, traditional Italian in Fratelli or the homely ambience of Gillies which offers entertainment seven nights a week. For the sweet tooth, why not enjoy a decadent afternoon tea in The Conservatory, which houses Ireland’s largest gin collection.
Travellers may think they need to jet set abroad to find the ultimate in relaxation and wellbeing, but it is in fact right on their doorstep. Whether it is for that magical wedding location or simply that well-deserved and overdue getaway, escape to Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort for an experience like no other.