The Best Spa Hotels to Book in Ireland

On a hilltop overlooking Lough Leane, Aghadoe Heights occupies a calm-inducing space by the Lakes of Killarney and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains. The spa harnesses that tranquility, with a decor that mixes natural slate with a colour palette based on wild Irish flowers and grasses. The thermal suite has four heated cabins and multi-sensory showers, while spa treatments include wraps, reflexology, and bath rituals.

The award-winning spa at Ashford Castle delivers opulent five-star treatments, personalised and balanced for every guest. Visits to the invigorating hammam and steam room can be followed by time on the terrace, where you can admire the lake and ancient woodlands. Visit the relaxation pool, which sits in a bronze conservatory, to admire a renowned Tree of Life mural with nods to Irish-Celtic mythology.

A dramatic 23m (75ft) pool is the centrepiece of the stylish spa here. Coupled with a eucalyptus-infused steam room, spacious jacuzzi and gym, it’s little wonder the Marker is consistently name among the best spa hotels in Ireland. It exudes urban sophistication, with charcoal-coloured walls creating a peaceful respite from the busy city outside.

Lough Eske Castle, in County Donegal, provides a welcoming spot for R&R – particularly if you’re driving the Wild Atlantic Way. The Cara Organic Beauty Spa comprises seven treatment rooms, a thermal suite and an infinity pool. Enjoy the sanarium – a sauna with increased humidity – alongside spa rituals, which include facial and body treatments.

The Merrion, a beautifully restored Georgian townhouse in Dublin city centre, is an oasis of calm – beloved by celebrities and those seeking a five-star experience. The spa offers innovative gold-standard and wholly restorative treatments – skincare by Biologique Recherche and Espa, hair by Ciara Newman, Milltown Physiotherapy and bespoke programmes by personal trainers. The treatments are complemented by access to an exclusive pool and relaxation areas.

Ballyfin Demesne, at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, is often regarded as the most lavish Regency mansion in Ireland. The spa is equally opulent; the vitality pool has a variety of jets and bubble blasts to massage your muscles. There’s also a 14m (45ft) indoor pool overlooking the courtyard garden, plus treatment rooms staffed by trained therapists.

Considered one of the finest luxury hotels in Ireland, Cliff House has a spa to match, if not enhance, its reputation. It has a 15m (50ft) indoor infinity pool that seemingly merges with the Irish Sea. And should you want to go full Wim Hof, there’s a natural outdoor rockpool – though the al fresco relaxation terrace and jacuzzi are more gentle ways to chill.

Relaxation comes in many forms at Adare Manor, a regal estate built in the first half of the 1800s. Of course, there’s an elite spa offering a long list of treatments and a swimming pool. However, holistic wellbeing can also be found in the activities on offer – the Woodland Walk takes you past reflective pools and poets’ huts – and in the restaurant, where Michelin-starred dining should give you a warm glow.

In the woodlands of County Wicklow, south of Dublin, this property on the Powerscourt Estate is the perfect spot to escape the city. Spa rituals incorporate Espa products and include reflexology, facials and massages. The 20m (65ft) pool is illuminated with Swarovski crystal lighting, and the leisure club includes a thermal suite, sauna and serenity room. You can also try yoga, pilates and aqua aerobics.

Embrace the healing properties of nature with a stay at this award-winning spa hotel in west Cork. There’s a seawater therapy pool – the water comes straight from the Atlantic Ocean and is heated to a comfortable 31C (88F). There’s also a selection of thalassotherapy treatments, including a selection of baths. Should you rather be by the sea than in it, yoga sessions on the water’s edge provide a relaxing (and dry) experience.