'My honest review of Galgorm spa in Northern Ireland'

'When we arrived at Northern Ireland's favourite luxury spa destination, my to-do list and deadlines immediately dissipated.'

Travel bucket lists are definitely back on but staying close to home is still a desirable option for many. Could a luxury spa break just across the pond in Northern Ireland be the perfect bridge between a staycation and flying further afield? We visited Galgorm to find out.

When we arrived at Northern Ireland's favourite luxury spa destination in Ballymena – just 30 minutes drive from Belfast International Airport – my to-do list and deadlines immediately dissipated. The gorgeously gushing River Maine comes into view as you drive up the winding path to the main house and it's instantly eye catching: wide and rocky with mature trees on one side and manicured gardens with hot tubs dotted along the banks on the other. The sun glistening also helped.

Greeting us on arrival was the concierge dressed in traditional tweed, in keeping with the 19th century decor and original antique furniture inside the main entrance. Staff can't wait to be of help and everyone seems delighted to talk to us and share information about how we can get the most out of our stay (tip, download the Galgorm app).

What's the vibe?

Each area of the hotel and spa has its own feel and character: traditional period-antiques grace the lobby for a grand look; The Conservatory, where breakfast is served, is bright, airy and dressed in classic, elegant furniture; the Gilles Grill, for dinner and live music, has a gastro-pub vibe; and the Thermal Spa Village is designed with laid-back luxury.

The Thermal Village is the main attraction for Galgorm so be prepared to slip immediately into downtime. There are lots of couples and small groups meandering around in brown robes. Whether you cross paths in the lift or hot tub, people are friendly and open to chat. There are also quieter spots to be found if you explore the gardens and surrounding forest.

What are the rooms like?

Our room was spacious enough to kick back, relax and feel right at home in. Snacks, spring water and mini-bar were all complementary, which we loved. Beyond the bed there was a sofa and lounge area and a Juliette balcony overlooking a stunning wide view of the river and gardens. From here we also had a good viewing spot of part of the Thermal Village, which is where we spent most of our time.

Tell me everything about the Galgorm spa experience!

The Thermal Village is a lot bigger than it first seems. In the centre there are two large indoor pools, both with stunning glass walls with natural light pouring through. Lay back on a water-bed or infra-red heated lounger and enjoy some much-needed calm.

Outside there are trellised garden paths leading to many inviting hot tubs. The gardens sprawl wide, featuring several zones: The Alpine Garden where cute chill-out chalets and sauna cabins await, the plant-packed Palm House for tea or a cocktail and the Heated Experiences by the Hydrotherapy Pool. If you're in a couple, small group (or even alone), you can treat yourself to a private riverside hot tub with the Forest Bathing Experience.

The late opening hours (until 10pm) at the The Thermal Village feels special as you can enjoy a cheeky after-dark dip. Don't miss the Salt Cave, the Celtic Sauna and The River House with feature glass walls bringing you and the natural landscape closer together. There was nothing better than letting go in a sauna with a stunning forest view in front of you.

Sounds incredible. What's a top treatment to try?

The spa menu has nine treatments and the latest is the OTO CBD Signature Treatment. Already one of the most popular, it's a body massage and facial delivered on a bed of tiny quartz stones.

After a warming foot soak and a chat with the therapist about the CBD properties of the massage oil you’ll choose, the treatment starts with an exfoliating skin scrub and a bold all-body cooling compress. The massage uses bamboo rollers for a firmer touch, which feels unique, combined with the therapist's nimble, wave-like fingers and palms. The effect is a fluid and dreamy dance around your body. A mini bamboo roller is brought out for the facial, but with a lighter touch, and the head and scalp massage that follows is the perfect tension-releasing end.

Post-treatment we enjoyed sorbet and tea in the orangery relaxation room, boasting real life citrus trees and bursting with natural light thanks to more floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

What about the food?

Our days started with a feast; not just the usual cooked fare in The Conservatory, but interesting offerings such as locally-sourced honeycomb, homemade flapjacks and a range of cheeses, fish and meats.

The robes-only Elements spa cafe is a great spot to punctuate your day with a glass of bubbly and a panini. Dinner and drinks was lively at the Gilles Grille where even vegans and vegetarians are well looked after. If you have time, we recommend a short drive to The Castle Kitchen and Bar for modern, relaxed dining (and killer vegan brownies).

Anything else?

Of course we sampled the gym too. Impressively well-stocked with functional fitness and cardio equipment from concept2 rower and ski-erg to pull-up rig and barbell and weights. I was in my element!

I recommend booking the two-night package as it took us a full day to just settle into Galgorm, get our bearings and acclimatise to spa life. It was a tall order, but we managed it.

Galgorm, Ballymena, Co.Antrim, Northern Ireland www.galgorm.com

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