Every year when we edge closer and closer to January we start thinking about how we’re going to accomplish a “new year, new you” transformation, and sometimes getting away and taking a break is all you need.
Away from the buzzing lights of the city, the busy streets and the crazy noise – Galgorm Resort & Spa in Ballymena, Co Antrim is a haven of relaxation.
I arrived late at night to the resort – which is tucked away within 163 acres of stunning parkland, and as we drove up to the reception I was mesmerised by the Rive Maine flowing through the estate – the sound of the river is constant and it really feels like you are in the middle of nowhere.
Staying here is a completely unique experience – on the outside you are smack bang in the middle of nature, surrounded by wooden cabins, trees and water – on the inside you are treated a luxury experience with grand pianos, your choice of multiple restaurants and bars and large bedrooms.
The most unique part of the Galgorm experience is the Thermal Village. This is the best place to relax, rejuvenate and forget about your troubles.
The first night we arrived we were treated to the Dutch Riverside Hot Tub experience.
Picture this – a roasting hot Hot Tub situated right by the river, looking out onto parkland – while being served champagne and chocolates…heaven.
It started hail-stoning while we were outside enjoying our hour of heaven but it didn’t even bother me because the experience was so good.
The Thermal Village is all located outside by the river, so as you move on to your next experience you are still walking around outside in the middle of nature at it’s best.
We then went for the Celtic Ritual Sauna – which is a must do for anyone going to the resort.
Unique: This is a must-do while you’re here
Originating in Finland and now practised world-wide this is Galgorm’s unique presentation on the Aufguss sauna ritual which heightens the effects of the sauna by using water enriched with essential oils.
You also have your very own Sauna Master – who uses a large towel to agitate the air, fanning everyone with different senses and heat… it’s a hard one to explain but a very relaxing experience.
Afterwards you are then brought into a relaxation room where you can lie down and your guide talks you through a breathing exercise and focuses on relaxing all your muscles.
And relax: I nearly fell asleep doing this
With the sounds of the river flowing throughout the experience it’s easy to let go and completely focus on relaxing your mind.
After that we were brought to the Orangery, where you can relax with refreshments (or a glass of Prosecco) on one of their chair swings, or resting beds available.
I stayed for just one night in Galgorm and before dinner I was already completely revitalised and relaxed.
For dinner we headed to the resort’s Italian restaurant Fratelli’s, where we both enjoyed some gorgeous Italian food and of course; a bottle of Merlot.
Stunning: Galgorm is the perfect getaway
Delicious: We ate at Fratelli’s Italian
After dinner we relaxed in the hotel bar listening to music and treated ourselves to a Baileys before bed.
The next morning I woke up feeling so refreshed, I never wanted to leave.
We checked out the grounds before driving back to Dublin, and I spotted some stunning cottages and cabins you can also rent at the resort.
Cabins: You can lock yourself away at the resort
Serenity: You can rent cottages too
While we were there there was also a wedding taking place in The Great Hall, and it really is the ideal location for a magical wedding.
As we drove away my heart sank because I knew I was leaving behind the perfect getaway.
Next time I’ll have to stay for a week…
For more details check out www.galgorm.com
