3 Dreamy Irish Waterside Wellness Breaks to Escape To

As we slowly ease out of winter, there’s no better way to rest, recharge, and rejuvenate than with a luxurious spa break by the water.

Whether you crave a romantic private thermal spa experience, an outdoor soak as the sun sets, or fine dining with a view, these waterside havens are the ultimate winter wellness escapes.

Finn Lough: a romantic retreat

The setting: Tucked away on the shores of Lough Erne, arriving at Finn Lough feels like stepping into a hidden sanctuary. Following the lush trails through the forest, we find our River Cabin, perched on the edge of a natural spring, with floor-to-ceiling windows bringing the outside in. A deep tub sits overlooking the water, the perfect spot to unwind.

The cabin feels both earthy and luxurious, enveloping us in natural materials, while technology like discreet speakers and electric blinds are seamlessly integrated. It’s peaceful here, and in the morning, breakfast is delivered for us to enjoy in the cabin – a real treat.  

The spa: The Elements Trail Spa offers a private self-guided tour through a series of cabins in the forest, combining hot and cold therapy, while the Shoreline Spa offers a Finnish sauna and private hot tubs along the water’s edge.  

The treatment: We pass through a large dome relaxation lounge, where we’re led to our private outdoor hot tub at the Shoreline Spa.

Settling into the hot bubbling waters, we watch the sun set over Lough Erne with a hot chocolate and rum cocktail in hand, feeling completely at ease. A softly lit path leads to a Finnish sauna, and for the adventurous, there’s an exhilarating option of plunging into the cool lake waters before retreating back to the warmth.  

Don’t miss: An evening at The Barn is a must – locally sourced and seasonal produce create delicious sharing plates to enjoy together. Finish with a wander over to The House Bar, find a cosy corner. By Jennifer King

The Ice House Hotel: magic in Mayo 

The setting: Located right on the edge of the River Moy in Ballina, we arrive at the Ice House Hotel late at night, and only absorb the full beauty of our location at sunrise the next morning, when we pull back the curtains on our floor-to-ceiling windows.

It’s like a watercolour painting come to life, with layers of rust-tinged trees reflecting against the calm river waters, a scene interrupted only by a huge variety of native birds swooping past.  

The spa: Indoors, thermal suite staples like the lush aromatherapy room and steam room soon get us relaxed, but it’s the outdoor amenities that are a real treat, including hot tubs with picturesque river views.

The treatment: Outdoor bathing therapies are something the Ice House does well, and my buddy and I opted for the detox seaweed bath, made using organic, hand-harvested Atlantic seaweed.

We giggled like two giddy kids as we slid into the warm, slimy waters and then relaxed into the experience, enjoying a refreshing sorbet as well as herbal tea as we took in the views and regularly topped up the hot water. It was bliss.  

Don’t miss: For some tasty pub grub and local banter, stroll up to Quay West, just minutes from the hotel.  

By Nathalie Marquez Courtney

Lough Eske: a Donegal dream  

The setting: Approached by a long, tree-lined driveway, the facade of Lough Eske Castle still retains the original castle walls from when first built in 1861. As impressive as this is, the lasting impression of our arrival was the warm Donegal welcome from the team. 

Our home for the weekend was one of the new Donegal Suites which featured a four-poster bed, fireplace, and roll top bath and lots of lovely soft furnishings from Donegal artisans and makers including Magee 1866 and McNutt’s. 

The spa: A short stroll through the gardens took us to Cara Organic Spa where we enjoyed a morning relaxing in the thermal suite. A wonderful recent addition are the new hot tubs located in the castle’s walled garden. 

The treatment: The relaxing ESPA back, neck and shoulder massage was the perfect way to unwind and recharge. 

Don’t miss:  We took the scenic route to one of Ireland’s best kept secrets, Sliabh Liag. Europe’s tallest sea cliffs have incredible views across Donegal Bay. A stroll through the beautiful woods of Lough Eske Castle on Sunday morning was the perfect end to a wonderful weekend break in Donegal. By Patricia McCrossan