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The birds are singing, the mornings are brighter and there’s a grand old stretch in the evenings. All that can mean just one thing – Spring has sprung at last.

And with those feel-good vibes in the air, it’s the perfect time for an indulgent rest and recharge to set you up for the action-packed months ahead.

Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel, located a 30-minute drive from Belfast, has all the options you need for some well-deserved “me-time” to blow away those winter cobwebs and put a spring firmly back in your step.

Recently named Best UK Spa at the AA Hotel Spa Awards and crowned Best Destination Spa 2024 in the prestigious Conde Nast Johansens Awards, there’s no better place to relax and unwind, whether you’re enjoying a riverside bathing experience, a rejuvenating detox therapy session or taking an uplifting walk through Galgorm’s 450 acres of luscious parklands.

From blissful spa trips and first-rate retreats to exceptional dining experiences and wonderful accommodation options, take some time to reawaken your spirit and embrace all the very best things this time of year has to offer with the award-winning Galgorm.

Deluxe Spring Escape

Embark on a truly enchanting spring escape at Galgorm, the perfect retreat to succumb to the season of rebirth, pamper yourself and focus on your wellbeing as you head into the new season. This delightful package includes a relaxing overnight stay in a Deluxe guestroom with guests granted access to the award-winning Thermal Spa Village from check-in to check-out, as well as being treated to a choice of private spa experience. To add to the allure of your evening, enjoy a complimentary mini bar and wake up to a delightful full Irish breakfast, making your one-night getaway an ideal spring escape. Enjoy this

Bed & Breakfast with Private Spa Experience

Spring break in a Shepherd’s Hut

Immerse yourself in nature with an overnight stay at one of Galgorm’s charming Shepherd’s Huts in the heart of Galgorm Wood. With a one-bedroom or two-bedroom Shepherd’s Hut at Galgorm, you can marvel at the energy and life of the season from your very own terrace, where you can lounge in the warm spring sunshine in the copper tub or enjoy the crackle of a comforting firepit as the sun sets on the horizon.

Each distinct hut is luxuriously appointed with all the features you could need for the perfect blend of countryside comfort making it a luxurious home away from home. Guests will also be granted access to relax in explore the Thermal Spa Village, exploring the world-class facilities. Treat yourself as the evening rolls in with a sumptuous meal at Gillies Grill, Fratelli Ristorante or Castle Kitchen + Bar, before enjoying a night cap curtesy of the complimentary mini bar back at your very own Shepherd’s Hut.

To put an extra spring in your step, why not opt for the

Shepherd’s Hut 1 Night Spa Escape

Get away from it all with a Cottage Suite stay

Set on the serene grounds of the resort, the luxurious Cottage Suites offer a blend of countryside comfort with all the finest touches you would expect. With a choice of one, two or three bedrooms, the Cottage Suites are the perfect option for those who want to get away from it all and reconnect with nature for a true spring awakening. Just moments away from the award-winning Thermal Spa Village with its range of indoor and outdoor spa facilities, guests can indulge in a true sense of tranquility amongst stunning scenery with the gentle sounds of the rolling River Maine in the background.

Opt for a

Cottage Dining Escape

And with all lodging accommodation now available as dog-friendly, there’s no reason why your four-legged friend should be left out of the fun during your spring escape.

Day Spa Relaxation in the forest

Embrace the serenity of nature at one of Galgorm’s Riverside or Serenity Tubs with a

Forest Bathing Experience

Membership of the Thermal Village & Spa at Galgorm is perfect to begin your journey of optimal health and wellbeing in surroundings of beautifully understated luxury. We caught up with some of our memberships to find out what membership means to them...

Membership of the Thermal Village & Spa at Galgorm offers access to one of the finest luxury Spa Resorts in the UK & Ireland where a holistic approach to wellbeing is our core focus. Annual membership is perfect for local residents as well as those visiting the Resort on a regular basis. We caught up with a number of our members to find out what membership at Galgorm means to them.

"As a member what makes the Spa Village special to me is simple, the vision to continuously redefine your health and well-being experience and the excellent team of people who provide first class customer service. There is nothing better than a spa visit to relax and recover after a busy day whether with a little exercise, a therapy room or even a bit of both."

"I am nearing the end of my first year as a member of Galgorm Spa. It has been a great year.

From the moment you walk through the door to the Spa, you feel like you are escaping the real world for a while and have the luxury of all the fantastic facilities at your finger-tips while interacting with staff that are always friendly and professional. 

The facilities, including the gym, swimming pool, and thermal area have enabled me along with the personal trainer's guidance to improve my level of fitness and get back in shape.

The member’s social events are a treat on the calendar allowing you to get to know new people develop new friendships.

I would thoroughly recommend membership to the Spa" 

"I have been a member of Galgorm Spa for a number of years now. I find the tranquil environment, coupled with the luxurious facilities and surroundings, create the perfect setting for relaxation. It is the ideal place for catching up with friends over a coffee.

The thermal village, spa and swimming pool are state-of-the-art facilities which I thoroughly enjoy and use regularly. I also attend the fitness classes which are delivered by qualified instructors. In particular, I have found the Stretch Classes to be especially beneficial.

The staff are very attentive and friendly, contributing greatly to the overall ambiance of the Spa and provide a superb service to members."

"What being a member of “Galgorm Spa” means to me. From the minute you arrive the staff are always very pleasant and eager to assist. The Members’ Manager, Karen Clifford is extremely approachable and always goes out of her way to sort out any questions or queries I have ever had.

It is a great place to meet up and make new friends, as I have done.  You can either exercise or relax the choice is yours, from the gym, tennis courts, golf course or swimming pool. Alternatively just opt to have a snack in ‘Elements’, relax in the orangery, hot tubs, or steam rooms, the list goes on.

We have just had your annual Members night which is complimentary of Galgorm, it was a very enjoyable evening, a great opportunity to meet other members.

I would recommend Membership to everyone."

For more information or to begin your journey of optimal health & wellbeing, contact our Membership Executive here

NI Hospitality School Joins Forces with Private Business Securing 36 Jobs

Jobs Secured by Graduates in Ballymena via NI Hospitality School to Tackle Skills Development and Employment Deficit in Sector.

A TOTAL of 36 individuals from the Ballymena area are celebrating this week after graduating from the NI Hospitality School and securing full-time employment within local award-winning hotels. 

The NI Hospitality School was established in 2021, following collaboration between three Ballymena-based hotels – Galgorm Resort, the Tullyglass House Hotel and the Adair Arms. With courses delivered by Northern Regional College and South Eastern Regional College, the school was set up to provide opportunities for skills development, to address the challenges of recruiting staff and to highlight that a career in hospitality can offer a plethora of rewarding career development opportunities. 

Initially funded by independent charity, The Gallaher Trust, the NI Hospitality School has successfully attracted private sector funding from several high-profile organisations including Henderson Foodservice and Britvic Ireland, which is a demonstration of commitment from the wider sector. 

According to Eddie McKeever, Managing Director of McKeever Hotel Group and Chairman of the NI Hospitality School, the initiative has far exceeded its goal and is playing an essential role in elevating skills and helping to secure the sector’s future.

“At the NI Hospitality School, we recognise the significant challenges the industry faces, particularly around recruitment and developing a sustainable and highly skilled workforce,” explained Eddie. 

“Through targeted training and support, we’re working to bridge these gaps by equipping individuals with the expertise and confidence needed to maintain a thriving career within the hospitality sector. By creating opportunities for meaningful employment and continuous professional development, we’re ensuring that both employees and employers have the tools they need to succeed, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and dynamic hospitality industry in Northern Ireland. 

“I would like to pay homage to The Gallaher Trust, whose initial funding enabled the NI Hospitality School to come to fruition. The fact that we have now attracted funding from the private sector is evidence of the enhanced reputation and success of the school since it was established three years ago. A number of businesses within the private sector have recognised the importance of securing a pipeline of future talent and we are truly very grateful for their support. We are looking forward to the future of the school and to providing greater benefits to our participants and to the hospitality industry as a whole.” 

The NI Hospitality School encompasses a number of academies including a bar academy, a chef academy and a food service academy. 

Formerly a Chef, Skye Hanley aged 23 from Ballymena, is an NI Hospitality School food service academy graduate, who has pivoted her career and now works in a guest facing role as a Food and Beverage Assistant in Gillies Grill and Elements at Galgorm Resort. 

“Transitioning from working in the kitchen to a guest facing role has been a very rewarding experience,” she said. 

“The training I received at the NI Hospitality School gave me the confidence and skills I needed to thrive in my new role. Taking part in the course has shown me the wealth of growth opportunities that are available to me – I’m really excited for my future.”

If you’re interested in a career in hospitality and would like more information, visit:

https://www.nihospitalityschool.com/

Portavogie Prawn & Chilli Pasta

Serves 2

• 150g peeled Portavogie prawn meat
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 red chilli, de-seeded & finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced
• 2 tablespoon chopped flat leaf parsley
• 200g linguini

1) Heat the olive oil in the pan and fry the garlic and chilli over low heat for 2 minutes. Turn up the heat (be careful not to burn the garlic) add the prawns and cook for 2 minutes, until the prawns are pink.

2) Cook the Linguini in a large pan of boiling salted water until al dente. Using tongs, remove the pasta from the boiling water and add it to the frying pan with the prawns, along with 3 tbsp of the cooking water. Toss together and cook over a low heat for about 2 minutes.

3) Place the pasta between the serving bowls. Top with Parmesan and chopped parsley.

Marinated Heritage Tomato Salad, Ewings Smoked Salmon, Torn Sourdough, Fennel, Mint Pesto

Serves 2

• 100g smoked salmon
• 200g mixed ripe heritage tomatoes, sliced into even sizes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
• 1 bulb fennel, finley sliced
• 100g sourdough, torn and lightly toasted
• 80g fresh mint
• 50g toasted pinenuts (keep 1 teaspoon back for garnish)
• 1 garlic clove
• 125ml olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Edible herbs and flowers

1) Place the tomato pieces into a bowl and coat with the oilive oil, sherry vinegar and season with sea salt, black pepper and half a teaspoon of caster sugar. Allow to marinade at room temperature for one hour before eating.

2) To make the pesto, place all ingredients into a food blender and blitz until smooth. This can be placed into a refrigerator in a sealed container until needed.

3) Slice the smoked salmon into ribbons and finely slice the fennel on a mandolin.

4) To serve put a spoonful of pesto in a bowl and toss the shaved fennel in pesto, layer up all the ingredients, and finish with the remaining toasted pine nuts, herbs and flowers.

Valrhona Jivara Chocolate & Salted Caramel Sponge

Afternoon Tea Week is here and we’re letting you in on one of our sweetest secrets, the Valrhona Jivara Chocolate & Salted Caramel Sponge! Crafted in-house by our pastry chefs and a guest favourite from our new Afternoon Tea menu, this chcoclate sponge heaven treat is best enjoyed with a freshing brewed cup of tea, or for an extra celebration, a glass of champagne! 

Yield: 25 individual cakes (25g each)

Components:

• Chocolate Sponge Cake Batter

• Salty Caramel Topping

• Jivara Chocolate Glaze

• Caramel Crisp Garnish

Chocolate Sponge Cake Batter

Ingredients:

• Unsalted Butter – 195g

• Fine Sea Salt – 5g

• Caster Sugar – 118g

• Vanilla Essence – 8g

• Egg Yolks – 78g

• Light Brown Sugar – 48g

• Plain Flour – 156g

• Cocoa Powder – 39g

• Baking Powder – 2g

French Meringue:

• Egg Whites – 118g

• Caster Sugar – 30g

Method:

1. Cream butter, caster sugar, salt, and vanilla until pale and smooth.

2. Whip yolks with light brown sugar until ribbon stage (approx. 45°C), then fold into the creamed butter.

3. Sift and fold in dry ingredients (flour, cocoa, baking powder).

4. Prepare meringue: whip whites and gradually add caster sugar until stiff peaks form.

5. Fold meringue into batter in three stages, keeping the mixture airy and smooth. Reserve for assembly.

Salted Caramel Topping

Ingredients:

• Caster Sugar – 150g

• Water – 38g

• Liquid Glucose – 10g

• Warm Cream – 70g

• Vanilla Bean – ¼ pod, split & scraped

• Unsalted Butter – 105g

• Fine Sea Salt – 0.5g

Method:

1. Combine sugar, water, and glucose in a saucepan. Cook to a dark amber caramel (approx. 180°C).

2. Deglaze with warm cream infused with vanilla bean, stirring carefully.

3. Remove from heat, stir in butter and salt until smooth.

4. Emulsify with a hand blender until glossy and homogeneous.

5. Chill until thick enough to pipe but still soft.
   
   

Assemble & Bake

1. Preheat oven to 160°C.

2. Pipe 25g of chocolate batter into mini moulds.

3. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cakes spring back lightly.

4. Cool cakes completely on a wire rack.

Finishing Touches

1. Using a piping bag with a fine round or flat nozzle, pipe long, delicate strips of the Salty Caramel Topping across each mini cake.

2. Optionally, dip the sides or top in Jivara chocolate glaze and garnish with caramel crisp pearls.

3. Allow to set at room temperature before serving.

The Gallaher Trust has today announced the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School offering enrollers the chance to gain a hospitality qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.

The Gallaher Trust has today announced the launch of the Northern Ireland Hospitality School offering enrollers the chance to gain a hospitality qualification and secure guaranteed employment with one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels.

Over the next three years, The Gallaher Trust will invest almost £260,000 in supporting the Northern Ireland Hospitality School, a brand new educational centre focused on providing hospitality training and a pathway to employment for those seeking a career in the industry.

Backed by City & Guilds, the school will offer a six-week Level 2 Award in Professional Bartending (Cocktails) course delivered in partnership with the Northern Regional College.

Upon successful completion of the course, newly qualified bartenders will be guaranteed employment at one of Northern Ireland’s top hotels; Adair Arms Hotel, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort or Tullyglass House Hotel. With an estimated 72 jobs available over the next three years, the hospitality partnership represents a combined investment of more than £1.3 million into local employment.

Ian Paisley MP, Chair of The Gallaher Trust, said:

“I’m delighted to launch the Northern Ireland Hospitality School and confirm a significant jobs boost for the local area today. The Gallaher Trust is an independent charity committed to promoting job creation and skills development and providing support for disadvantaged adults in the Ballymena community.

The idea for the Northern Ireland Hospitality School came from a group of passionate industry professionals who wanted to fill a gap in the market for people looking to change or start their career in hospitality and, after years of planning, it’s fantastic to see the school open and ready for its first intake of enrollers.

For us, facilitating a pathway to employment is key to the school’s success and we’re thrilled to be working with three of Northern Ireland’s leading hoteliers to provide guaranteed jobs alongside first class skills training with education and delivery partner Northern Regional College all of which will meet the tenets of the Trust.”

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has also given some support and their Chief Executive,

Anne Donaghy added:

“After a challenging year for the sector, and for those employed in the hospitality industry, today’s announcement is a positive step forward in working towards recovery and generating new career opportunities. It’s also a fantastic boost for the local economy and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to supporting education and employment.”

Ashley Douglas, Northern Regional College Lecturer, said:

“We’re thrilled to partner with the newly established Northern Ireland Hospitality School and deliver a fantastic new training programme for those keen to pursue a career in hospitality. The new City & Guilds course offers a real mix of training, from basic bartending to the art of mixology, sales techniques and finance training to personal development.

We’re also excited to welcome the first intake of 12 enrollers in May, with a view to placing successful candidates into employment by late June. With no formal entry requirements, the course is accessible to everyone that can demonstrate a passion for delivering excellence and offers a fantastic opportunity for those interested in a career in hospitality to get a first foot on the ladder with a top Northern Ireland employer.

With further course intakes planned for late 2021 and into 2022, I would encourage anyone interested in applying for the course to visit 

nihospitalityschool.com

Galgorm Resort & Spa are delighted to have been crowned Ireland's Luxury Spa Village at the World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards 2017.

World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Honour 2017 Winners

Galgorm Resort & Spa are delighted to have been crowned Ireland's Luxury Spa Village at the World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards 2017.

The scene is set; it’s a warm, exotic summer’s evening in Vietnam, the sun begins to set over the bustling and intriguing city of Hanoi, excited participants gather at the event of the year, the event that will later that night honour them as the crème da la crème of the luxury wellness and fine dining industries. Champagne flows, canapés travel on beautifully decorated trays to guests, and the air of anticipation grows. Proudly hosted by the spectacular JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi, who with a red carpet welcome invite over 180 guests from more than 50 countries to a dazzling evening of luxury, glamour, and style.

“Over 100,000 votes brought our winners here tonight; 100,000 times the public voiced their opinion on who of the 1,000 entrants are deserving of these accolades. Tonight we honour the staff of these fine establishments, who through their immeasurable service delivery have brought success to the proud brands of which they are a part.” says Marna Lourens, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Spa Awards.

Setting the basis for service industry standards around the globe, the World Luxury Spa Awards and World Luxury Restaurant Awards pride themselves on providing true recognition to luxury spas and restaurants in their relevant categories during its annual voting phase. Votes are garnered through various marketing channels from guests, showcasing yet again the true value of service excellence.

“The most coveted award on the evening is our Global Spa and Global Restaurant of the Year awards. Each year the task to determine these top establishments begins after voting has closed and we announce to our winners if they have been successful. We are six senior managers who take weeks to decide, as voting is not the only criteria we look at to bestow this prestigious award. A multitude of factors come in to play; brand, location, overall guest satisfaction from online reviews, services and facilities, design, and even menu offerings whether spa or restaurant. It is important to look at each establishment as an individual as well, some are on an island, some are in cities or in a desert, it is not always possible to compare apples with apples when defining luxury. This year the focus was on unique design with a touch of classy elegance, and we were as such proud to award Global Spa of the Year to Harnn Heritage Spa at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort and Global Restaurant of the Year to Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Both of whom encompass the ethos of luxury and supreme service.” says Joanna Evans, Marketing Communications Manager for the World Luxury Awards.

The evening was as glamorous as one would expect from a JW Marriott brand hotel; a delectable 6- course fine dining menu adorned each table throughout the night and was paired with fine wines and champagne from Moët et Chandon. Entertainment fitting of the destination included a Dragon Dance, a Vietnamese based string quartet performance by Độc Cầm - Toxic Quartet, and a local Ao Dai Dance, all of which added to the evening’s Asian flair.

“The food tonight was exceptionally impressive and has been during our entire stay at the hotel. Executive Chef Brendon Partridge and his team receive full honours from the World Luxury Awards and all our guests for the tireless effort of crafting these delicious plates of exquisite foods we received this evening,” says Linda Cooper, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Restaurant Awards. “I am proud to know that the awards they themselves received tonight are so well deserved.” 

Galgorm achieves gold status with Green Tourism and Green Meetings Gold certification for meetings and events.

Northern Ireland’s award-winning luxury hotel, Galgorm, has been recognised for its sustainability standards by Green Tourism.

Galgorm’s latest green credentials recognise the sustainable practices of the hotel across a wide range of areas spanning environmental initiatives, procurement processes, community projects, employee wellbeing and the hotel’s support of active travel initiatives.

Green Tourism champions sustainable business across the globe, promoting greener ways for businesses and organisations to operate, by offering advice on reducing energy use, saving water, waste disposal, ethical buying, community initiatives, biodiversity and more. Its awards certification programme recognises organisations that work responsibly, ethically, and sustainably.

In addition, the new Green Meetings standard recognises sustainable practices specific to meetings and events. This new standard further provides reassurance to clients and customers of Galgorm’s commitment to sustainability.

Speaking of the awards, Tara Moore, Head of the Sustainability Committee for Galgorm, commented: “We are delighted to achieve these awards from Green Tourism. They not only convey our commitment to sustainability, but also highlight the hard work, time, and investment from our wider team in this arena. We are continuing to invest in this area as a key pillar of our business going forward.”

Andrea Nicholas, CEO from Green Tourism, said: “In their application for these awards, Galgorm demonstrated an exceptional commitment to sustainable practices. They are leading the way in the hospitality industry in Northern Ireland, as the first hotel to have achieve this award. I have no doubt they will hold tight to this recognition, with many more promising initiatives to come.”

Last year, Galgorm unveiled a detailed plan of action to achieve carbon neutral status by 2030 in a bid to become the first premier hospitality group on the island of Ireland to go fully green as part of a new sustainability commitment.

Comprising the global award-winning Galgorm with its Thermal Village & Spa, the Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick and the Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, as well as two Belfast city centre restaurants, Fratelli and Parisien, Galgorm Collection’s new Green Policy 10-Point Plan will cement its position as one of the UK and Ireland’s most successful and ambitious hospitality leaders.

Galgorm announced plans today to create a suite of new accommodation and thermal spa options within its 380-acre County Antrim Estate which forms part of a £10 million investment that will create up to 50 new hospitality jobs 

Galgorm announced plans today to create a suite of new accommodation and thermal spa options within its 380-acre County Antrim Estate which forms part of a £10 million investment that will create up to 50 new hospitality jobs over the next two years.

This new investment marks the first phase of a £30 million project to further expand and enhance Resort and spa facilities by 2027 and is the latest move by Galgorm Collection to ensure the Resort’s position as a world-class international tourism destination, having already invested £60 million since 2010.

In addition to the expansion of the Resort, Galgorm Collection has also committed to the rollout of an enhanced benefits package for all eligible team members, including a £1 million investment into premium private health care cover over the next five years as part of its ongoing commitment to investing in its people.

The announcement was welcomed by Economy Minister Gordon Lyons on a recent visit to the Resort:

“I warmly welcome Galgorm’s expansion plans to increase its visitor capacity and provide an exciting, new travel experience. I’m delighted to see Galgorm Collection forging ahead with new opportunities to expand its offering and cement Northern Ireland’s position as a fantastic place to visit.

“My Department’s Tourism Recovery Action Plan aims to create a solid foundation for recovery and a return to the record breaking tourism figures of 2019. This announcement by Galgorm is evidence of the vital recovery already taking place within this important and much valued sector.”

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“Over many years, we have invested heavily to establish Galgorm as an award-winning international and world-class tourism destination, and we remain firmly focused on investment and innovation to secure our global position. This latest £10 million project will see up to 50 additional accommodation units added to the Resort over the next two years, which will increase our workforce and expand the Estate’s footprint.”

New for 2021 is the addition of a range of bespoke Shepherd’s Huts with the first now open to guests keen for a unique stay within the great outdoors. Representing an investment of £2.5 million, the area is earmarked for further expansion, housing up to 18 huts by summer 2022.

Nestled deep within the newly created ‘Secret Meadow’, the one-bed huts are equipped with all mod cons including a feature stove and a mini kitchen with hob, microwave, fridge, freezer, kettle, toaster, and coffee machine for a cosy woodland retreat. Each hut comes with its own outdoor bath and fire pit on the terrace, perfect to experience the healing and restorative benefits of the surrounding forest.

Expanding upon its existing Cottage Suites, work will commence on a £2.5 million project to add 23 new high spec one-bed cottages. Cleverly designed with everything guests need for a comfy stay, Cottage Suites are located within the serene grounds of the Resort and offer luxurious seclusion whilst in close proximity to the main Resort.

Plans are also in place to add five magical treetop hideaways set amidst the forest grounds, with the first opening next year in a £1.5 million investment.

“There has been a real surge in demand for outdoor experiences and pursuits as staycationers and visitors alike seek a connection to nature and the great outdoors. We’re delighted to expand our offering in this space with the launch of a suite of unique accommodation types and a host of new outdoor pursuits at the Resort. From fishing and falconry to cycling, hiking, clay pigeon shooting, and horse riding, guests can now enjoy a stay with a difference but with the same luxury and premier hospitality that Galgorm is renowned for”, added Colin.

The award-winning Thermal Spa Village will further expand by two acres in a £2.5 million project to add new hot and cold outdoor experiences, a second outdoor riverside pool to further expand the authentic Irish Spa experience within a stunning woodland setting.

An additional £100,000 has also been invested in a brand new Spa Suite. Complete with its own jacuzzi, sauna and private access to The Spa, the suite offers breathtaking views of the River Maine and provides guests with their own slice of serenity for the ultimate relaxation escape.

The Linen Merchants is the latest addition to the Resort’s residency accommodation which offers accommodation for up to 10 guests, along with an outdoor private hot tub, private garden with BBQ, two lounges, and a spacious kitchen; the ideal option for a family get-together.

Tourism Northern Ireland Chief Executive John McGrillen said:

“Today’s announcement by Galgorm is yet another positive sign for the tourism and hospitality industry and points to future growth and recovery of the sector as a whole. Galgorm Collection has continued to innovate and build on its established reputation as a world-class spa and golf resort over the last decade and I am delighted to see these ambitious new expansion plans progress. This investment will connect guests and visitors with Northern Ireland’s great outdoors, showcase our natural landscape and focus on building and maintaining environmentally friendly accommodation that will support the sustainable tourism economy of the future.”

For more information please

visit www.galgorm.com

Whether engaged or simply wistfully dreaming of what your ideal Wedding Day will be like, it’s almost certain you have considered the minor detail of potential venues. Choosing a destination is no easy task and couples are now more than ever spoiled for choice when it comes to venues; barns, castles, hotels, even music halls, the list goes on! While aesthetics play a major role, have you considered the onsite amenities, customer service and accessibility for your guests? To assist you with your decision making we have pulled together just a few reasons why you should consider a full-service resort wedding.  

1. Convenience

It is safe to say that every couple hopes to reminisce in years to come on the day they invited their nearest and dearest to celebrate the moment you said “I Do’. Savour quality time with your loved ones, particularly those who have travelled great distances, by having one central location for your guests to stay. With 125 rooms including suites, deluxe, superior and standard rooms as well as self-catering cottages, shepherd's huts and log cabins, Galgorm offers accommodation to suit each and every type of guest. Afford yourself the peace of mind that with fewer moving pieces, there is less chance of mistakes being made. 

2. Ceremony Rooms

Why not try somewhere more unusual for your wedding ceremony? Galgorm is home to two stunning and equally unique venues offering a magical backdrop for a civil ceremony or exchange of vows. Hosting your ceremony and celebrating your wedding reception mere yards away from one another minimises the moving pieces and allows your guests to virtually forget about their car keys for the day, focusing entirely on embracing your fairytale romance. Make the most of the time you have saved travelling between venues and have your wedding photography complemented by the stunning grounds of Galgorm. Our selection of trusted suppliers are specialists at delivering those lesser-known Galgorm shots guaranteed to wow time and time again, all seasons considered. 

The traditional Phantom House nestles against the backdrop of ancient rolling woodland and gently flowing waterfalls, boasting original stonework, Aga fires and a private balcony overlooking the river. The Ghost House offers a completely magical setting, adorned with elegant drapes, and twinkling candles. Both locations offer outdoor options for the brighter seasons and are the ultimate in timeless romance.  

3. On-site Pampering

During the final few days in the run-up to the main event, the last thing you wish to be doing is frantically traveling from A to B all in the name of pre-wedding pampering. Relax and unwind in the serene surroundings of Ireland’s first award-winning Thermal Spa Village. Gather your thoughts as the flurry of excitement builds and take some time to embrace a moment of tranquillity in the most beautiful, calming surroundings our our three different spa gardens. If it's time for two you desire, relax and unwind post-wedding with a private Bathing Experience. Nestled among the olive trees and apple orchard of the Walled Garden or alongside the River Maine. 

4. Stress-Free Planning

More often than not, your dream Resort can offer a range of all-inclusive packages, particularly beneficial when organising a wedding from afar. At Galgorm, our team of highly experienced Wedding Planners have devised a number of packages that draw on the experience of selective and highly respected experts in their field. After all, planning is part of the experience so ensure you soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the fun stuff while rest assured that every detail is being taken care of. 

5. Experienced and Devoted Staff

Last, but certainly not least, rest assured that from the moment you inquire about hosting one of the most memorable events of your life, each intricate detail will be taken care of in a manner of sheer professionalism, with each member of staff devoted to ensuring a successful event. Your Resort will be no stranger to hosting weddings and yet you will feel as though your celebrations are as unique as your love for one another. 

Galgorm Collection has confirmed a renewed commitment to supporting local community group Cullybackey Community Partnership and has pledged funding of £15,000 over the next three years to assist the group in enhancing the Cullybackey area. 

Galgorm Collection has confirmed a renewed commitment to supporting local community group Cullybackey Community Partnership and has pledged funding of £15,000 over the next three years to assist the group in enhancing the Cullybackey area. 

Situated just outside Cullybackey village, Galgorm has been a long-standing partner to Cullybackey Community Partnership since establishing the Resort in 1998, working with the group to facilitate community initiatives, including opening up access to the surrounding countryside to the public through dedicated paths and walkways around the Resort.

This latest funding announcement will support the group to deliver a range of community initiatives.

Paul Christie, Chairperson of Cullybackey Community Partnership said:

“As a major tourism destination and local employer, Galgorm is an important part of the fabric of our community. I’m delighted to accept this funding and continue our relationship with the Resort to help regenerate the village.

As part of the Resort’s latest investment and upgrade of the property, it was necessary to restrict access to the pathways around the area which were enjoyed by local walkers and ramblers alike. I welcome Galgorm’s commitment to reconnect the community with the landscape and provide enhanced public facilities through the creation of a scenic pathway from the Resort to Galgorm Castle, which they are currently planning with other local partners.  

Similarly, I’m thrilled to announce that this generous funding will be used to support local community projects that will bring about most benefit to the village. Corporate social investment can bring about great benefits for both the investor and for the community and I hope that others might also consider similar investment.”

Colin Johnston, Managing Director of Galgorm Collection said:

“We’ve enjoyed a fantastic, long-standing relationship with Cullybackey Community Partnership for many years and we greatly value their input and feedback into ongoing investment and enhancement of The Resort.

As a business deeply committed to our local community, I’m pleased to commit £15,000 over the next three years to support the Partnership in its aim to further revitalise the village and deliver vital community-led initiatives for the benefit of everyone. We’re proud to be part of such a vibrant and connected community and we look forward to seeing these projects roll out over the coming months and years.”

For more information, or to put forward a community project idea, please visit Cullybackey Community Partnership on Main Street Cullybackey, phone

02825882281

cullybackey@nacn.org

As proud hosts of Ireland's first MLX Quartz Bed, Catherine gives us the need to know details on the ancient Greek concept of psammo therapy...

As a digital marketer, the majority of my working days are spent behind a luminous screen scouring the internet. A fairly hazard-free role you could say, and to some extent would be correct. However, it is not entirely without its repercussions (and I’m not talking about the flurry of dog memes all vying for my attention in any one afternoon). Bad posture and neck strain come part and parcel of desk-based roles. An early morning stretch and limber up for the day ahead regularly results in the sort of cracks less akin to that of someone in their early twenties. That was of course until a friend had suggested a massage. Really? I thought to myself. It all seemed a little self-indulgent and perhaps not something I truly needed or could justify treating myself to for that matter. After some persuasion (quite frankly, not a lot), I stand corrected. My name is Catherine and I am a Spa convert.

Enter the MLX Quartz Treatment Bed. “What’s that?” I hear you proclaim. Much like myself, when I was introduced to the concept, I was instinctively intrigued by this term that my colleagues had spoken so highly of. Derived from the Greek concept of psammo therapy, or hot sand therapy, the MLX Quartz is the modern take on a century-old approach to delivering the utmost in physical and holistic relaxation. 

As it’s eponymously named component would suggest, Quartz beds are something of a luxury; a rare and restorative highway to relaxation. So with this in mind, once I had made my decision to book in for a full body massage, I knew I had to experience first hand for myself, just how truly special such treatments are. After all, Galgorm proudly house the first MLX Quartz Bed on the island of Ireland! 

Fast Forward to Tuesday…

Having completed my pre-treatment questionnaire and feeling refreshed following a lemon & ginger tea (made all the sweeter by the accompaniment of two luxurious truffles), I was soon introduced to my Therapist. Now, as a self-confessed spa amateur, I can’t help but confess to being somewhat apprehensive of the treatment. Oh, how wrong I was! Upon meeting my Spa Therapist, the wonderful Zoe, any preconceived ideas of awkwardness were swiftly dispelled.

Upon entering the treatment room I was firstly amazed by the treatment table which houses the alpha quartz sand. Instantly I knew this would be something of a luxury and with the scent of essential oils in the air, instant relaxation ensued. A quick chat with Zoe revealed the format of the treatment which would include singing bowls and poultice. Stay with me on this one…

Now, you may be wondering how comfortable laying on a bed of quartz sand can be and I am here to confirm that it is truly a dream. Once laying upon the protective polyurethane layer the warmth of the hot sand instantly relaxes as your therapist intricately moulds the quartz sand around your body in order to support the contours of your body. In my cosy, relaxed state I was immediately transported to a warmer climate, cocooned on a warm sandy beach (albeit minus the factor 50). If this state of relaxation was only the beginning I was surely in for a treat. 

Om-Believable 

As a firm believer in the powers of meditation in mindfulness, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the treatment incorporated elements throughout with the introduction of two singing bowls. An odd sensation to begin with; once placed on my back Zoe struck the bowls, instantaneously sending vibrations throughout my spine as well as the room, with a sensation quite unlike anything I had previously experienced. This signified the beginning of the treatment and proved the perfect precursor to ensure I was in the utmost relaxed of states. At this point I couldn’t help but contemplate how dubious I had been before arriving for my treatment, this was exactly the respite from everyday life that we all require from time to time - and with that thought, the massage began. 

Utilising the most luxurious of oils, Zoe began the massage with her hands before introducing the heated Poultice which sets this treatment apart from it’s traditional massage counterparts. The two poultice or ‘stemps’ as they are sometimes referred to contained quartz sand, kept in place with cloth and heated to the desired temperature. The sensation from heated poultice alleviating knots and soothing muscular pain was nothing short of restorative. With this tranquil combination of cocooned warmth achieved from the bed, targeted relief from the poultice and the calming practice of massage techniques, it was a particularly mean feat to stay awake. The journey of relaxation continued as the treatment progressed from top to toe, before maneuvering to repeat the techniques on my front. The experience then concluded with a repositioning of the bed to a zero gravity position to facilitate the scalp massage, evoking a deep state of relaxation - as though I could have been any more at ease with the world. 

Slowly and with as much grace as could be expected from my dream-like hazy state, once the treatment had concluded, I was greeted with fresh towels and an ice cold glass of water before chatting to my therapist who informed me that my suspicions were correct and my shoulders housed a plethora of tension - who knew! Having just spent 90 minutes in heated environment, I was advised to drink as much water as possible to stay hydrated throughout the evening. Guided to the relaxation area of The Spa at Galgorm and feeling as though I could take on the world, the icy delights continued with a refreshing sorbet to round off my mid-week escapism. 

If the thought of this serene treatment intrigues you, book yours now;

- 90 Minute Signature Ritual - £125 Midweek / £140 Weekends 

- 60 Minute Back Therapy - £90 Midweek / £95 Weekends 

Galgorm today announced the launch of a brand new recruitment drive to hire more than 180 additional new team members for a range of hospitality roles for its hotels and restaurants in Ballymena, Belfast and Templepatrick.

Galgorm Collection expands workforce by 25% and commits additional £5m investment annually in wages ahead of hospitality sector reopening

Galgorm today announced the launch of a brand new recruitment drive to hire more than 180 additional new team members for a range of hospitality roles for its hotels and restaurants in Ballymena, Belfast and Templepatrick.

From chefs to bar tenders, spa therapists and managers, to facilities staff, housekeepers, drivers and night porters, the company behind the world renowned Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort said the roles will help to meet anticipated demand when the hospitality sector reopens in the coming months.

Galgorm Collection said it is investing more than £5m in annual wages creating the new roles, which include both full and part time positions and forms part of its advanced preparations for the full and safe reopening of its properties.

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“I am absolutely thrilled to confirm more than 180 brand new jobs and to commence recruitment for a wide range of hospitality roles across our collection of properties. This new initiative will expand our team by an additional 25 per cent and bring our total workforce to 900 team members. “

Today’s announcement confirms our commitment to further developing our world-class hospitality provision and reaffirms our confidence in the sector’s recovery. We are currently working towards an April start date for our first new team members and we look forward to the Executive confirming a reopening date for hospitality and tourism sector so that we can begin onboarding our new recruits and facilitating a return to work as soon as possible.”

The announcement was welcomed by Economy Minister Diane Dodds:

“I warmly welcome the jobs announcement made by Galgorm Collection today and their commitment to recovery. This is positive news and represents a strong foot forward in Northern Ireland collectively forging a path to recovery. The hospitality industry has faced unprecedented challenges over the last 12 months and our focus now is on ensuring a safe and sustainable reopening of the sector when the time is right. Galgorm has continued to demonstrate strong leadership for the industry and this announcement will provide a beacon of light for the rebuilding of the sector.”

Tourism Northern Ireland Chief Executive John McGrillen also welcomed the news:

“The closure of the hospitality sector across Northern Ireland has been sorely felt and the full impact of this still remains to be seen. Today’s announcement will provide a much-needed lifeline for many hospitality workers in an industry hard-hit by the pandemic and I hope this important announcement will help provide renewed confidence and momentum in working towards the sector’s recovery.”

The world-renowned and multi-award-winning Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, located in Ballymena, is set to hire an additional 94 team members across its accommodation, spa and restaurants. Recently named Best Spa Experience within the UK and Ireland at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2021 and crowned Resort Spa of the Year at the World Spa & Wellness Awards 2020, the new hires will bolster its 720-strong team and build upon its award-winning credentials.

In Belfast, 60 new team members will join Galgorm’s two city centre restaurants, the iconic 

Café Parisien

Fratelli’s

An additional 26 team members will be recruited to support the opening of Galgorm Collection’s newest venture, 

The Rabbit Hotel

For more information on the roles available and to apply, visit 

galgorm.com/work-with-us.html