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 β just 30 minutes drive from Belfast International Airport β my to-do list and deadlines immediately dissipated.
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. 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.
