Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Russell glow
chicken goujons and chips, followed by a visit to the Ciúin spa for some much-needed R&R.
After a quick consultation with the friendly staff, herself went off for a massage and facial treatment while I pottered about the various offerings in the hydrotherapy suite.
At this stage the stresses and strains of everyday life were miles behind me as I alternated dips in the jacuzzi with ten minute spells in the sauna, steam room or hammam.
A lot of care and attention has been put in to ensure the Ciúin spa is a proper sanctuary, a haven where weary minds and bodies can go to unwind and enjoy some tranquility.
Alternatively, for those who fancy a more vigorous afternoon, the gym is well-stocked, sleek and modern, while the swimming pool is the perfect spot for kids to burn off some energy.
Throughout our stay, I was struck by how there was something quintessentially Irish about the whole operation, whereby the atmosphere comes suffused with equal measures of charm, elegance and friendliness.
Nowhere was this more apparent than during dinner in the Conall Cearnach restaurant, where the vibe encapsulated all that is good about the Slieve Russell.
A pianist was tinkling away in the centre of the room, the understated melodies creating a warm ambience amid the chat, laughter and clink of wine glasses.
I ordered a plate of plump, juicy prawns to start and followed up with a hearty main of lamb that left me just enough room to indulge in some ice cream for dessert.
The food was of the highest standard and was matched by the flawless service, with the waiting staff embodying the best of Irish hospitality.
Speaking of which, we returned to the Kells bar for a nightcap, where we found the drinks were flowing and the craic was mighty, with everyone in the mood to make the most of their Saturday night.
A word to the wise, though; if you want to avoid a queue for a table at breakfast then it’s advisable to get down early. All that late-night revelry resulted in a log-jam when it came to fry time, as it seemed most of us needed an extra hour or two in bed.
We weren’t in any rush though, so our leisurely breakfast was followed by a leisurely stroll around the grounds to try to work off a rasher or two. It was a cool, crisp morning, just perfect for walking. But with the estate encompassing 300 acres, we barely scratched the surface of what is a gorgeous landscape.
Still, we saw enough to realise we needed to start planning a return visit. And with the journey there and back barely using up half a tank of petrol, there’s every chance it’ll be sooner rather than later.