The best spa hotels in Ireland are Galgorm, Adare Manor, and The Europe; however, Ireland’s spa break offering has evolved massively over the last decade, with a wealth of luxurious retreats now catering to every type of relaxation seeker.
Spa breaks in Ireland can be hit and miss – often, you’ll find a hotel that claims they have a ‘great spa’ when it’s really just a pool with fancy lightning…
Then there are the spa resorts in Ireland, like Galgorm (and Centre Parcs!), that have completely disrupted Ireland’s spa hotel scene.
Why trust this guide: It only contains places that The Irish Road team has collectively visited on 2 or more occasions and that we’re confident you’ll love.
The very best spa hotels in Ireland
This guide highlights the best spa retreats in Ireland, offering a mix of 4- and 5-star hotels for a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation.
Note: if you book a hotel through one of the links below we may make a small commission that helps us keep this site going. You won’t pay extra, but we greatly appreciate it.
1. Galgorm (Antrim)
You’ll find one of the most unique spa breaks in Ireland tucked away in a 450-acre park in Ballymena – Galgorm!
Galgorm boasts a thermal village that’s home to a Celtic Sauna Infusion, a snow cabin, a sanarium, a river house, snail shower, hot tubs and much more.
If you’re looking for spa resorts in Ireland for a break with friends, there are log cabins, huts and cottages that can take groups.
- Spa features: Riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, steam rooms and saunas
- Hotel features: Championship Castle golf course, gin bar + numerous dining options
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
2. Adare Manor (Limerick)
Next up is Adare Manor – one of the best spa hotels in Ireland if you have cash to splash!
Set within 840-acres of parkland in Adare in Limerick, this is one of the stand-out 5 star hotels in Ireland.
Famous for outstanding service, extravagant rooms and a lavish interior, Adare Manor is also well known for offering one of, if not the, most luxurious spa breaks in Ireland.
- Spa features: Private manicure and pedicure rooms, a relaxation pool and hands-on treatments
- Hotel features: Golf course, numerous dining options including a Michelin star restaurant and countless on-site activities
- How much a night costs: Read all about it
3. The Europe (Kerry)
Overlooking the world-famous Lakes of Killarney, The Europe is one of the best places to stay in Ireland if you’re fond of a view (or if you want a luxury base for the Ring of Kerry).
This is one of Kerry’s most extravagant 5-stars and it boasts an equally lavish ESPA luxury spa along with decadent rooms with lake and mountain views.
The Europe offers one of the best spa breaks in Ireland for those looking to combine chill time with exploring as many of Killarney’s top attractions are minutes away.
- Spa features: Thermal suite, outdoor vitality pool, indoor pool and relaxation areas
- Hotel features: Horse riding, numerous restaurants and bars + glorious gardens
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
4. Dromoland Castle (Clare)
Few castle hotels in Ireland are as revered as Clare’s Dromoland, located in Newmarket on Fergus.
This 5-star is set amidst the stunning Clare countryside where it is steeped in both history and elegance.
A stay at Dromoland costs a pretty penny, but if you’re looking for a unique and very memorable night away, few spa breaks in Ireland compare!
- Spa features: 6 treatment rooms, amber and quartz crystal bed, the whisper room relaxation space and pool
- Hotel features: Championship golf course, gardens + several outstanding dining options
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
4. Monart (Wexford)
Monart Spa is widely regarded as the best spa hotel in Ireland for couples. In fact, a few years back in was awarded ‘Runner-up Best Spa Retreat Worldwide’.
This is a five star destination spa with one sole aim – enhancing the well-being of its guests.
Oh, and the best part? It’s one of a tiny number of adults-only spa resorts in Ireland!
There’s a large spa area here with 15 rooms, Michelin-recommended dining and large grounds to saunter around, too.
- Spa features: 15 treatment rooms, sauna, steam room, salt grotto, infra-red suite, hydrotherapy pool + more
- Hotel features: Michelin recommended restaurant, garden lounge + 100 acres to explore
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
6. The Cliff House (Waterford)
The Cliff House in County Waterford has long established itself as one of the best spa hotels in Ireland and you’ll find it perched on the side of a cliff overlooking Ardmore Bay.
The spa here offers spectacular views (as does the dining area) and the hotel also boasts a one Michelin-star restaurant.
With just 39 rooms, the Cliff House is by no means big, however, it packs a punch far beyond its size when it comes to overall experience.
- Spa features: Indoor infinity pool, outdoor heated Jacuzzi, stone baths, sauna, steam room + more
- Hotel features: Michelin star restaurant + outstanding views
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
7. Center Parcs (Longford)
Although it’s arguably better-known as one of the top family breaks in Ireland, Longford’s Centre Parcs is home to an award-winning spa experience.
Tucked away in the forest, the spa here offers 21 different experiences across 4 spa zones and includes everything from a heated outdoor spa to saunas and steam rooms.
There’s also the option of visiting for a day-spa break if you don’t fancy spending the night!
- Spa features: Outoor pool, saunas, chill-out spaces, steam rooms, hot tubs + more
- Resort features: Ireland’s largest water park + endless activities
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
8. Ashford Castle (Mayo)
The next stop in our guide to the best spa hotels in Ireland is Cong’s 800-year-old Ashford Castle.
The former home of the Guinness family, it was Ireland’s first Forbes five star spa retreat.
Overlooking the tranquil waters of Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle was founded in 1228 by the de Burgo family and you get a sense of its past in every corner of the impressive property.
Spa wise, you’re in for a treat – they recently won their 8th award for ‘the best spa hotel in Ireland’ at the World Spa Awards and their spa underwent a multi-million investment in 2023.
- Spa features: Pool, 5 treatment rooms, a Turkish bath, steam room, and serene terrace
- Hotel features: Historical setting, beautiful grounds and gorgeous old world interior
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
9. Castlemartyr (Cork)
Next is one of the better-value spa hotels in Ireland, especially when you consider it’s a 17th-century 5-star hotel with a 2 Michelin star restaurant!
Cork’s Castlemartyr is located on 220 lush acres that encompass streams, a lake, and an 18-hole golf course along with a large spa area.
This resort is also one of a small number of spa hotels in Ireland that’s dog friendly (there’s pet-friendly accommodation on site!).
- Spa features: 7 treatment rooms, 4 mani-pedi stations, vitality lounges + pool
- Hotel features: Golf course, 2 Michelin star restaurant + impressive grounds
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
10. Powerscourt (Wicklow)
Next of is the the most famous of the spa hotels in Wicklow – Powerscourt. Set on a 1,000 acre estate, it’s home to 198 rooms, 2 golf courses and an outstanding 30,000 sq.ft spa.
This 5-star features Palladian-style architecture, every luxury you desire and rooms (most of them, anyway!) with views of the Wicklow countryside.
If you just want to relax, you can easily check-in and chill in the hotel for the duration of your stay.
If you want to explore, this is one of the best luxury spa hotels in Ireland when it comes to nearby attractions.
- Spa features: Pool, Hannan Suite, thermal suites + more
- Hotel features: Large scenic estate, wide range of dining options + leisure club
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
12. Muckross Park (Kerry)
Kerry’s 5-star Muckross Park provides the perfect balance of 18th century opulence and 21st century comfort.
Few luxury spa breaks in Ireland boast a setting like Muckross – it’s located on 25,000 acres within the national park and it’s a 30-minute spin from the Dingle Peninsula.
The hotel is home to the award-winning ‘Gothic-inspired spa’ which delivers a whole-host of luxurious experiences and treatments to guests.
- Spa features: Vitality pool, chill area, vitality suite, spa garden, hot tub + more
- Hotel features: Numerous restaurants (including the 2 AA Rosette ‘Yew Tree’) + extravagant rooms
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
13. Lough Erne Resort (Fermanagh)
The award-winning Lough Erne Resort in Fermanagh is one of the best-known spa hotels in Northern Ireland and it’s set amidst 600 acres of tranquility.
This award-winning 5-star boasts a Thai-inspired spa, a championship golf course, several dining experiences, luxurious rooms and a stunning lakeside setting.
If the budget is there, spring for one of the Lakeview Rooms. You can chill in your room while soaking up the sights and sounds of the Fermanagh lakelands.
- Spa features: Infinity pool, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, light therapy sauna + more
- Hotel features: 3 exceptional restaurants, 36-hole golf course, gym + on-site activities
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
14. The Marker Hotel (Dublin)
Although there are countless spa hotels in Dublin, one reigns supreme – The Marker on Grand Canal Dock.
Now, a note, first – when people see city-based hotels in guides to the best spa hotels in Ireland, negative comments tend to follow, but bear with me.
While the Marker doesn’t have the most scenic surroundings, its opulent spa takes you a world away from the hustle and bustle.
- Spa features: Infinity pool, sauna, steam room + award-winning treatments
- Hotel features: Rooftop bar, several dining options, gym + luxury rooms
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
15. The Ice House (Mayo)
Located on the Mayo Coast a short spin from Sligo, the Ice House is one of a handful of spa resorts in Ireland that tends to go viral online thanks to its award-winning Chill Spa.
Yes, this is the one with the outdoor jacuzzis, Cedarwood Seawood Baths and chill out areas overlooking the river.
You can watch the world drift gently by from the Riverside Relaxation Room or spend some time steeping in piping hot water in the outdoor hot tub.
- Spa features: Sauna, steam room, thermal suite + outdoor bathing
- Hotel features: 54° 9° Restaurant + rooms with river views
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
16. Kilronan Castle (Roscommon)
Set in a grand historic castle with a lake and expansive grounds in Roscommon, Kilronan Castle has been one of the top spa hotels in Ireland for many years now.
Look forward to four-poster beds and fine dining after a day in the spa where you’ll enjoy thermal suites, hot and cold vitality pools, saunas, steam rooms and your own chill-out suite with jacuzzi.
After relaxing, a host of gastronomic delights await. Try fine-dining in the Douglas Hyde Restaurant or relax with afternoon tea next to the piano in the Palm Court.
- Spa features: Thermal suites, vitality pools, hydro showers, saunas, aroma light-therapy + more
- Hotel features: Gym, pool, leisure centre, old-world setting and award-winning restaurant
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
18. The Shandon (Donegal)
There are plenty of spa hotels in Donegal, but the best I’ve stayed in in recent years is the Shandon, which overlooks Sheephaven Bay near Dunfanaghy.
Located a short stroll from Marble Hill Strand, the Shandon has a compact yet impressive spa that offers mighty sea views, a vitality pool, heated loungers and more.
One of the reasons this tends to be one of the more popular spa hotels in Ireland is thanks to its Canadian hot tub where you can soak up views of the Donegal coastline.
- Spa features: 8 treatment rooms, Salt Grotto, sauna, foot spas, lifestyle showers, pool + more
- Hotel features: Large leisure suite with pool, rooms with views + several dining options
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
19. Park Hotel (Kerry)
Located on the picturesque Ring of Kerry, the Park Hotel in the charming town of Kenmare combines history with heritage and luxury.
This swanky spot offers one of the ultimate spa breaks in Ireland’s countryside with its Samas Spa, open fires, cinema room and a very cosy bar to kick-back in.
Out of the handful of luxury spa hotels in Ireland I’ve stayed in in recent years, the Park was hands-down the best service wise. It wasn’t cheap, but I felt at-home from the minute I arrived in the car park.
- Spa features: Thermal suite, relaxation room, ice fountain, steam room, sauna, outdoor pool + more
- Hotel features: Old world elegance, numerous bars (including a Champagne bar), cinema, gym + AA Two Rosette Dining
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
20. Wineport Lodge (Westmeath)
Similar to the Ice House, Wineport Lodge is another of the spa resorts in Ireland that’s no stranger to going viral online (mainly thanks to its outdoor hot tubs!).
The Lakeview suites at Lough Ree offer impressive views of glistening Lough Ree as does The Glasshouse restaurant, where you’ll dine by the water.
The Lakeview Suites at Wineport are finely kitted out for comfort, with the show-stopper being the balcony that looks out over Lough Ree.
- Spa features: Infinity plunge pool, hot tubs + wide range of treatments
- Hotel features: Lakeview rooms, several dining options + water-based activities
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
21. Redcastle Hotel (Donegal)
Last but by no means least in our guide to the best spa hotels in Ireland is the oceanfront Redcastle Hotel and Spa in Donegal.
This is the perfect base for those looking to explore one of the most picturesque corners of Ireland with all of the delights of the Inishowen Peninsula a short spin away.
Sea views aside, this is arguably one of the best-value spa breaks in Ireland with a 2 hour spa experience starting at just €49 p/p.
- Spa features: Chill out areas, pool with sea views, treatment rooms, sauna + steam room
- Hotel features: Gym, restaurant with a view + bar
- How much a night costs: See latest prices here
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent much of the last 13 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 40 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.
Dara
Thursday 15th of October 2020
The Heritage, Killenard. Spa is top class.