This year, Spabreaks.com launched The Elysium Collection – a collection of gold standard spa hotels. Epitomising the best spa experiences, here are the luxury spas in Ireland and Northern Ireland that joined the collection…

Galgorm Spa and Golf Resort, County Antrim – Ireland

By now, Galgorm is a renowned hotel and spa, known for excellence across the board. But that’s not going to stop us from talking about it. Everything from the scenery to the five star standards, design and food make it exceptional. The result is a fusion of luxury and wellbeing that’s really very unusual. Amongst our favourite features are the location, which the hotel and spa take full advantage of with views from the rooms. Also, the restaurant, and the River House, which is raised on stilts by the River Maine and is where spa guests enjoy classes. Equally, the experiences they create around the location, like the Beltane Experience where you relax around a sunken fire with friends before enjoying a dip in the 12 person hot tub.

Aghadoe Heights, County Antrim – Ireland

This award winning hotel and spa really capitalises on the most spectacular location. The spa looks out to panoramic views of Lough Leane and the Kerry countryside, which are reflected in the materials that make up the purpose-built sanctuary. Equally, here it’s the talent and intuition of the therapists that deserves commendation. Their spa therapists have won multiple awards for their talent, empathy and dedication to delivering the best spa treatments, tailored to the individual.

Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland

A vast destination looking out towards the Mountains of Mourne and the rolling sand dunes of County Down, Slieve Donard dates back to 1898 when it already had a reputation for its forward-thinking approach to wellbeing. Today, amongst its stand-out features are the elements that make it so self sufficient and reduce its carbon footprint, for example its own bakery, vegetable gardens, pigs, laundry, and power plant. 

Killeavy Castle Estate, County Armagh – Ireland

Literally your chance to stay in a castle, there’s a delightful fusion of old and new at this hotel and spa in Ireland. Guests can choose to stay in the beautifully restored Killeavy Castle, which dates back to 1836. It’s available for exclusive hire in all its glamorous gothic glory. Or for smaller occasions, in the main hotel or The Gatelodge, which takes up to six guests.  Meanwhile, set against the majesty of the mountains and the sweeping beauty of the Ring of Gullion, the spa has been purposefully designed. It is the ultimate retreat with a beautiful water therapy area, walled garden and Elemis and Caudalie spa treatments.