If you’re in search of the best spa hotels in Ireland, the guide below should save you some time.
Ireland’s spa resort scene has seen its fair share of change in recent years with many Irish spa hotels investing heavily in their facilities.
However, while many spa breaks in Ireland pack a punch, just as many fail to live up to expectations (yet still charge an arm and a leg!).
In the guide below, you’ll find a clatter of the best spa hotels in Ireland, with a mix of luxury stays and pocket-friendly escapes.
The best spa hotels Ireland has to offer
The map above will give you a sense of some of the spa breaks in Ireland in the guide below (the map was too small so we could only fit a handful of them on it…).
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 really do appreciate it.
1. Monart (Wexford)

Photos via Monart on FB
Monart Spa is widely regarded as the best spa hotel in Ireland and you’ll find it a stone’s throw from Enniscorthy.
This is a five star, adults-only destination spa with one sole aim – enhancing the well-being of its guests. The spa thermal suite takes you directly to nirvana with its green outlook from the hydrotherapy pool.
There’s a sauna, steam room, salt grotto and more to deep cleanse pores and begin the chill-me-out-sharpish process.
Fifteen treatment rooms stand ready with a full menu of beauty therapies, not to mention the Spa Cafe and the blissful dark and light relaxation rooms.
Our verdict: A stay here isn’t cheap, but as it ranked in the top 1% of all 5 star hotels in the world by Tripadvisor, you know you’re getting what you pay for!
2. Adare Manor (Limerick)

Photos via Adare Manor on FB
Nestled in the picturesque village of Adare in Limerick, Adare Manor is one of the stand-out 5 star hotels in Ireland.
The hotel is known for having a hefty price tag, but it’s famous for outstanding service, extravagant rooms and its lavish interior.
The spa at Adare Manor is a sanctuary of rest and relaxation and it was the first spa hotel in Ireland to offer customised facial and body treatments featuring 111SPA/CLINIC.
You can avail of private manicure and pedicure rooms, a relaxation pool and hands-on treatments delivered by expert therapists.
Our verdict: We’ve never heard anyone that has stayed in Adare Manor do anything but rave about it. This is one of the best spa hotels in Ireland if you have the cash to splash!
3. Dromoland Castle (Clare)

Photos via Dromoland Castle on FB
Few castle hotels in Ireland are as revered as Clare’s Dromoland Castle, located in Newmarket on Fergus.
This 5-star is set amidst the stunning Clare countryside where it is steeped in both history and elegance.
Amenity-wise, Dromoland boasts a championship golf course, glorious gardens and a highly regarded spa facility.
You’ll discover six treatment rooms, an Amber and Quartz Crystal Bed, a Whisper Room and plenty of relaxation space along with an indoor pool.
Our verdict: Like the two hotels above, Dromoland costs a pretty penny. However, if you’re looking for a unique and very memorable night away, few spa breaks in Ireland compare!
3. Galgorm (Antrim)

Photos via Galgorm on FB
I’d argue that no spa breaks in Ireland can remotely compare to Galgorm in Antrim – this is more resort than it is hotel.
Here you’ll find a 163-acre park that’s home to the rushing River Maine, 48 deluxe rooms and suites and an award-winning spa and Thermal Village.
At Galgorm, you can look forward to riverside hot tubs, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, steam rooms, saunas and more amidst the tranquillity of Mother Nature.
They’ve also opened up log cabins, shepherd’s huts and cottage suits, perfect for groups of friends looking for top spa hotels in Ireland that can accommodate groups.
Our verdict: There aren’t many spa resorts in Ireland and Galgorm has carved out a niche for itself offering a service that’s hard to compete with!
4. The Johnstown Estate (Meath)

Photos via The Johnstown Estate on FB
The Johnstown Estate doesn’t get half the credit that it deserves (aside from in its online reviews – they’re all exceptional!).
You’ll find this Georgian mansion in Enfield, where it offers 18th century, 4-star luxury to those looking for a dash of R&R.
The hotel is home to an award-winning spa where the team has crafted a range of signature treatments. Your visit here begins when you stroll into the rooftop and indoor thermal suite.
You can chill here for a bit, hopping in and out of the hot and cold therapies, before moving outdoor and kicking back on a heated lounger. There’s also relaxation lounges and a spa cafe (with cocktails!).
Our verdict: Although it gets thousands of rave reviews online, The Johnstown Estate is still somewhat of a hidden gem when it comes to spa breaks in Ireland. A great escape a stone’s throw from the capital.
5. The Cliff House (Waterford)

Photos via The Cliff House on FB
The Cliff House Hotel in County Waterford is another of the luxury spa hotels Ireland has to offer and you’ll find it clinging to a cliff overlooking beautiful Ardmore Bay.
Although the Cliff House is small in size (there are just 39 rooms) it packs a sizeable punch when it comes to overall experience.
The spa here offers spectacular views (as does the dining area) and the hotel also boasts a one Michelin-star restaurant.
Aside from the pool that looks like it blends into the sea, there’s also ‘Bathing Therapies’ where you’ll plonk yourself in a fancy outdoor bronze bath and steep yourself in Irish peat and ginger to sooth away those aches and pains.
Our verdict: The Cliff House has long established itself as one of the best spa hotels in Ireland. A stay here isn’t cheap, but this place provides a very unique seaside escape that’ll leave you hankering for more.
6. Killeavy Castle Estate (Armagh)

Photos via Killeavy Castle on FB
Another of the lesser-known spa breaks in Ireland is Armagh’s 4-star Killeavy Castle Estate which sits at the centre of 350 acres of mixed farm and woodland.
A stay here treats guests to a blend of modern luxury and old-world charm, with the ancient castle features colliding with modern luxuries.
When you arrive to the spa at Killeavy, you’ll first take a pre-treatment consultation before getting stuck into the ‘main event’. After, make your way into the water therapy area while soaking up views of the walled garden.
You’ll then move to the sauna and steam rooms to detoxify the body before heading into the outdoor hot tub. Polish off the day in the hotel’s 2 AA rosette fine dining restaurant
Our verdict: Facilities and experience aside, Killeavy make a great base to explore from, with Slieve Gullion, Carlingford and Rostrevor right on its doorstep!
7. Ashford Castle (Mayo)

Photos via Ashford Castle on FB
The 800-year-old Ashford Castle is another property that’s widely regarded as one of the best spa hotels in Ireland.
The castle is the former home of the Guinness family and it was Ireland’s first Forbes five star spa retreat.
Overlooking the tranquil waters of Lake Corrib, Ashford Castle is the ideal spot if you’re visiting with someone that wants nothing to do with saunas and treatments, as there’s a host of activities on the estate.
While you wallow in the relaxing steam room or enjoying an invigorating hammam experience, your significant other can play golf, kayak or try their hand at clay shooting.
Our verdict: If you’re looking to mark a special occasion, few spa hotels in Ireland will transport you back in time and deliver a stay as indulgent as Ashford
8. The Shelbourne (Dublin)

Photos via The Shelbourne on FB
The Shelbourne has been a luxury hotel landmark in Dublin for 200 years and is arguably the most iconic of the many 5 star hotels in Dublin.
Overlooking St. Stephen’s Green, it boasts exquisite guest rooms, fine dining, a cluster of bars and lounges and, of course, the ultimate luxury spa.
Spread over three floors, this luxury spa in Dublin has 7 treatment rooms with plush but homely surroundings.
The Shelbourne provides signature treatments and beauty rituals designed by world renowned brands. Think body wraps, scrubs, thermal facilities, swimming pool and an opulent relaxation room.
Our verdict: If you’re looking for a luxury spa escape in Dublin at the heart of the action, few hotels compare!
9. The Europe (Kerry)

Photos via The Europe
If you read our guide to the best places to stay in Ireland with a view, you’ll be familiar with this next hotel.
Overlooking the world-famous Lakes of Killarney, The Europe is one of Ireland’s most extravagant 5-star hotels with an equally lavish ESPA luxury spa.
Combine the exquisite spa treatments with golf, horse riding, fishing, walking and gym activities to complete your holistic luxury spa experience.
Qualified therapists deliver a full range of spa treatments using all-natural ingredients. There’s even a private spa suite for two for the ultimate couple’s massage.
Our verdict: If you’re looking for spa breaks in Ireland close to endless things to do, you’ve everything from the Ring of Kerry to Killarney National Park on your doorstep here
10. Castlemartyr (Cork)

Photos via Castlemartyr on FB
5-star Castlemartyr Resort is a grand 17th-century country mansion on the site of an even earlier castle in East Cork.
The resort is located on 220 lush acres that encompass beautiful streams, a lake, and an 18-hole golf course.
Castlemartyr offers a spa with 10 treatment rooms, delivering ESPA and Germaine de Cappucini products via a series of treatments.
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!).
Our verdict: Castlemartyr is one of the better-value spa hotels Ireland has to offer, with mid-week stays from around €209 (prices may change)!
11. Powerscourt (Wicklow)

Photos via The Powerscourt Hotel
Set on a scenic estate in County Wicklow, this world-class property boasts elegance and luxury by the boatload.
Powerscourt is home to 194 rooms, two golf courses, a signature restaurant and an outstanding 30,000 sq.ft spa by ESPA.
Visitors can soak up views of the Sugar Loaf Mountain and the surrounding valley, or book in for a facial, a body massage or a number of signature treatments.
You can also relax on a lounger while looking out at the gardens or take a dip in the dimly lit pool before sampling the best of Irish contemporary cooking in the Sika Restaurant.
Our verdict: While there are several spa hotels in Wicklow, Powerscourt reins supreme. It’s proximity to endless things to see and do are the icing on the cake!
12. Lough Erne Resort (Fermanagh)

Photos via Lough Erne Resort on FB
The award-winning Lough Erne Resort in Enniskillen in Fermanagh is one of the best-known spa hotels in Northern Ireland.
Its 120 luxurious rooms and suites are the perfect place to unwind and destress for a couple of nights.
There are 10 lofty Thai-inspired treatment rooms at Lough Erne and your journey to chilled-out begins with some unwinding at the Crystal Aroma Steam Room.
You can then move on to the Light Therapy Sauna and the Tropical Rain Shower before heading in for your treatments. There’s also an indoor pool and multiple dining experiences to choose from.
Our verdict: There’s stiff competition in Northern Ireland when it comes to spa breaks. If you have a decent budget to play with, you won’t go wrong with a stay here!
13. The Marker Hotel (Dublin)

Photos via Marker Hotel on FB
When people see city-based properties featuring in guides to the best spa hotels Ireland has to offer, they tend to kick-up.
However, while Dublin’s Marker Hotel doesn’t have the most scenic surroundings, it delivers an exceptional spa break away from the hustle and bustle.
Guests here can awaken their senses in the 23-foot infinity pool before relaxing in the Jacuzzi, sauna and eucalyptus-infused steam room.
There’s award-winning massages, advanced skincare treatments (including Rejuvapen micro needle treatments) and a number of dining options (including a rooftop bar).
Our verdict: While the location is by no means picturesque, you’ll step inside a world of decadence and delight at what is one of the best spas in Dublin
14. The K Club (Kildare)

Photos via The K Club on FB
Just 35 minutes from Dublin, the K Club boasts a mix of old-world elegance mixed with an extravagant luxury spa in spectacular surroundings.
The K Spa is a sublime temple of modernity with its glass architecture, relaxing ambience and wide range of treatments.
This place is the perfect choice if you’re after luxury spa breaks in Ireland. Special packages include accommodation, fine dining and either a K Spa Signature Massage or Natura Bissé Skin Comfort Facial.
There’s a huge range of dining options here – begin with a tipple at the Blue Martini Cocktail Bar before nipping into 1 of 5 on-site restaurants.
Our verdict: The K Club is a solid option for couples, especially if one isn’t a fan of the whole spa buzz. They can play gold or explore the grounds while you pamper till your heart’s content
15. Park Hotel (Kerry)

Photos via Park Hotel Kenmare on FB
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 open fires, golf, a cinema room and a bar with Europe’s largest collections of whiskey.
Visitors to the Park Hotel can whittle away an afternoon at the Samas Spa where both the body and mind will receive their fair share of nourishment.
While the indoor pool is impressive, it’s the outdoor section that overlooks the woodland and bay that’s hard to leave.
Our verdict: Having stayed here recently, the Park is very pricey. However, service-wise, I haven’t stayed in an Irish hotel that compares. Although it’ll be a long time before I stay again, this is one of a few luxury spa hotels in Ireland I’d be happy to shell out for.
16. The Ice House (Mayo)

Photos via The Ice House on FB
Located on the Wild Atlantic Way in County Mayo, the Ice House is one of a handful of spa resorts in Ireland that tends to go viral online frequently.
This is thanks to its award-winning Chill Spa which has outdoor jacuzzis, Cedarwood Seawood Baths and chill out areas overlooking the river.
In the spa, you’ll discover an extensive range of treatments along with a steam room and an aromatherapy dry heat room.
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.
Our verdict: The Ice House is one of the more unique spa hotels in the west and its position on the river provides views to accompany your stay. It’s also on the North Mayo coast, close to plenty to see and do!
17. Fota Island Resort (Cork)
The 5-star Fota Island is one of the best spa hotels in Ireland when it comes to value-for-money, especially if you’re bringing the kids.
The resort is home to Ireland’s only wildlife park, which should help keep them occupied for a couple of hours.
Guests can choose from 60 rejuvenating spa treatments along with 18 treatment rooms, so expect holistic relaxation and pampering by the bucketload.
There’s also three championship golf courses, luxury dining experiences and a mix of accommodation options, including self-catering lodges.
Our verdict: If you’re looking for spa breaks in Ireland where kids can also be catered for, few do it like Fota!
18. G Hotel (Galway)

Photos via G Hotel on FB
The G is one of the more popular hotels in Galway and it makes a great base to explore the city’s many delights.
The hotel’s interior was originally designed by Philip Treacy, the highly regarded milliner. The interior is what better writers than myself would describe as ‘chic’, with a very fashionable and quirky vibe to it.
The spa at the G is spread of two finely designed floors and it’s here that you’ll be transported from the hustle and bustle of the city to a world of pampering.
There’s 12 treatment rooms, a thermal suite and a vitality hydro pool along with rock saunas, heated loungers and more.
Our verdict: If you’re looking for spa breaks in Ireland a stone’s throw from endless restaurants, attractions and pubs, a stay at the G makes a great weekend getaway!
19. Muckross Park (Kerry)

Photos via Muckross Park on FB
Kerry’s 5-star Muckross Park provides the perfect balance of 18th century opulence and 21st century modern comfort.
The hotel is finely positioned on 25,000 acres of grounds within the national park which you can explore on foot or by bike.
The hotel is home to the award-winning ‘Gothic-inspired spa’ which delivers a whole-host of luxurious experiences and treatments to guests.
The pool area here (over 16s only, you’ll be happy to hear!) feels like something you’d have seen in a Roman emperor’s home thanks to its impressive architecture.
Related read: Few spa breaks in Ireland boast a setting like the Muckross Park. They are, quite literally, in the park, making it a great base to explore Killarney from!
20. Redcastle Hotel (Donegal)

Photos via Redcastle Hotel on FB
The oceanfront Redcastle Hotel and Spa in Donegal is the perfect base for those looking to explore one of the most picturesque corners of Ireland.
You’ll find it in on the incredible Inishowen Peninsula, where it’s a stone’s throw from many of Donegal’s top natural attractions.
Those that visit Redcastle can opt for all of the usual spa treatments while also enjoying mighty views of the surrounding landscape from the pool.
Our verdict: There are several top spa hotels in Donegal, however, Redcastle’s location on Inishowen makes it hard to beat!
21. Kilronan Castle (Roscommon)

Photos via Kilronan Castle on FB
Set in a grand historic castle with a lake and expansive grounds in County Roscommon, Kilronan Castle combines a thoroughly Irish experience with a relaxing spa break.
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.
Blissful spa treatments include collagen facials, massages, reflexology, detox wraps and a King of the Castle spa treatment for men.
After your chill time, 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.
Our verdict: This is one of the best spa hotels in Ireland price-wise. For example, a Saturday in June costs from €239 which, considering the standard of the property, is great value-for-money!
22. Kilkea Castle (Kildare)

Photos via Kilkea Castle on FB
I spent a night in Kilkea Castle in Kildare before they opened their now-hugely-popular spa, and it was a very memorable stay.
The hotel is set amidst 180 acres of ancient woodland, rivers and finely manicured gardens and, while it’s generally what’s outside that counts, it’s the interior at Kilkea that packs a punch.
Kilkea is one of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles and a monumental amount of cash has clearly gone into bringing it to its current standard.
Spa wise, you’ll find a host of treatments to choose from, a thermal suite with a mix of hot and cold experiences, an indoor pool and a swim resistant area along with steam and sauna cabins.
Our verdict: Having stayed here previously, I can vouch for the hotel being top-notch. Judging from the reviews online, the spa delivers the same level of experience!
23. Wineport Lodge (Westmeath)

Photos via Wineport Lodge on FB
Similar to the Ice House, Wineport Lodge is another of the spa resorts in Ireland that’s no stranger to going viral online.
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.
However, the show-stoppers here are the outdoor hot tubs that sit right by the lake and that can be booked in advance.
There’s also all of the usual spa treatments on offer, from cedar wood signatures to reflexology and everything in between
Our verdict: The lakeside setting, dining options and outdoor chill zones make this one well-worth considering!
24. The Dingle Skellig (Kerry)

Photos via The Dingle Skellig on FB
You’ll find the 4-star Dingle Skellig Hotel a handy walk from Dingle Town in the Kingdom of Kerry.
The hotel is finely located on the shores of the beautiful Dingle Bay, which means you’ll get to enjoy magnificent views throughout the hotel.
The Peninsula Spa is home to a Finnish Sauna, a steam room and an extensive list of treatments from VOYA.
One of the stand-out features here is the outdoor hot-tub that overlooks Dingle Bay. A fine place to plonk yourself to soak up the views.
Our verdict: If you’re looking to explore the Dingle Peninsula, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better base!
25. The Shandon (Donegal)

Photos via The Shandon on FB
The 4-star Shandon hotel in Donegal overlooks the breathtaking Sheephaven Bay. You’ll find it a handy drive from Dunfanaghy and the incredible Horn Head.
Inside the spa, you’ll find a luxurious range of heat and cooling experiences that’ll help cleanse and relax the mind, body and soul.
There’s also a vitality pool, heated loungers, state of the art lifestyle showers, foot spas, a sauna and plenty more.
The highlight of the Shandon’s spa is the Canadian hot tub where you can kick-back and admire views of the Donegal coast.
Our verdict: Depending on where you’re leaving from, The Shanon can be a fair distance to drive to. However, the area that surrounds it is home to a host of adventure opportunities, making it well-worth travelling to!
26. The InterContinental (Dublin)

Photos via The InterContinental on FB
The InterContinental brand is known for its worldwide luxury and this 5-star retreat is no exception.
Secluded in two acres of finely landscaped gardens, this hotel is surrounded by embassies and luxury townhouses in Ballsbridge, minutes from Dublin city centre.
Reputedly one of the finest five-star hotel spas in Dublin, it promises luxury massages along with skincare and body treatments using ESPA products.
Four treatment rooms, a lap pool, a gym and a heated whirlpool are complemented by spa treatments and massages designed to restore balance and harmony to body, mind and soul.
Our verdict: If you’re looking for a night away in the capital, or if you live in Dublin and fancy a treat, the cash you splash here will be well spent!
Spa hotels Ireland: Where have we missed?
Although we’ve included many of the best spa hotels Ireland has to offer in the guide above, I’ve no doubt that we’ve missed some.
Have you been on a spa break in Ireland recently that you’d recommend? Let me know in the comments section below.
FAQs about the best spa resorts in Ireland
We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What are the best-value spa hotels Ireland has to offer? to ‘Which are the best spas in Ireland if money is no option?’.
In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.
What are the best spa hotels in Ireland?
In our opinion, the best spa resorts in Ireland are Monart, The Cliff House, Johnstown Estate, Galgorm and the excellent Dromoland Castle Hotel.
What are some luxury spa breaks in Ireland?
There are plenty of luxury spa hotels in Ireland. Arguably the most notable is Monart in Wexford, however, Kenmare’s Park Hotel, Dublin’s Shelbourne and Cork’s Castlemartyr are all luxury spa breaks in Ireland.
Dara
Thursday 15th of October 2020
The Heritage, Killenard. Spa is top class.