First Minister Arlene Foster welcomes Galgorm's newest tourism investment as guests are safely welcomed back.

First Minister Arlene Foster welcomes Galgorm's newest tourism investment as guests are safely welcomed back.

Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa destination, Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, has unveiled its new, dramatically enhanced Thermal Village and Spa provision, representing an investment of more than £2 million into the popular Resort’s tourism credentials.

Work on the expansion project commenced in March this year after closing its doors in line with government safety restrictions.

The newly-reopened Resort now boasts a suite of new attractions for spa guests, including a 10 metre infinity pool on the shores of the River Maine, a 200m2 Palm House relaxation area encompassing six heated loungers, and a brand new Salt Room for halotherapy experiences.

With over 90 per cent of its Thermal Village and Spa offering located outdoors, Galgorm has also installed two group hot tubs and saunas, three additional private hot tubs with waterfall views and six brand new riverside cabanas.

First Minister, Arlene Foster, welcomed Galgorm’s return and its continued tourism investment:

“A world leader for local tourism, Galgorm is undoubtedly a premier destination and, with more people choosing to vacation at home this summer, this investment into its award-winning spa facilities is timely and welcomed.

A major player in the local, national and international tourism industry, Galgorm has continually demonstrated their commitment to Northern Ireland, leading and innovating with the supported development of its team in skills and best practice training.

As our tourism and hospitality industry focuses on rebuilding, it is encouraging to see one of the best-known businesses continue to invest and innovate, bolstering the recovering economy and cementing its reputation as a world-class destination.”

The new Spa expansion project is the latest venture in Galgorm’s investment into the Resort. Over the last decade, the premier estate has undergone a £60 million transformation and there are further plans to invest an additional £20 million by 2025.

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome the First Minister to Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort to see the dramatic transformation of our Thermal Village & Spa and to experience first-hand all of the comprehensive safety and hygiene measures we have in place for the health and wellbeing of our team and guests.

As an internationally renowned luxury resort, we are continually seeking ways to enhance the guest experience, and with the closure of The Resort in March, we had the opportunity to further invest and expand.

In addition, and as a priority, we focused on implementing safety measures throughout the Resort and we are delighted to be among the first hotels in the UK to receive the coveted AA COVID Confident Mark for our commitment to safety.

It’s fantastic to see the Resort reopen for business and guests safely enjoying our new amenities and world-class facilities. For staycationers choosing a relaxing break at Galgorm, the experience really is unrivalled, and we look forward to welcoming existing and new guests through our doors this summer. We thank everyone for their continued support.

We are also delighted to announce that all existing jobs will be protected with the creation of 40 additional jobs throughout The Collection.”

In addition to the £2 million investment throughout The Resort, Galgorm Collection has recently completed the £2.5 million first phase at The Rabbit, formerly known as The Templeton.

For more information please visit

www.galgorm.com.

Luxury resort expands offering with nature-inspired wellness retreat and enhanced in-room spa facilities.

Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa resort Galgorm has announced a £3 million investment - unveiling a major guestroom refurbishment programme and plans for a nature-immersive Forest Spa Garden. These significant developments further enhance the resort’s world-renowned Thermal Spa Village and reinforces its commitment to investing in Northern Ireland’s growing tourism sector.

£2 million has been invested to renovate Galgorm’s six junior suites - which are now complete with private hot tubs on the balconies overlooking the River Maine - and to refurbish 45 superior rooms which are due for completion by July 2025. The upgrades blend modern luxury with Galgorm’s timeless aesthetic, enhancing guest comfort while elevating the spa experience.

Set to open in autumn 2025, a new Forest Spa Garden represents an additional £1million investment, designed to offer guests a deeper connection to nature. Located across the River Maine and opposite the existing Thermal Spa Village, this tranquil retreat will be nestled within the resort’s woodland area and feature four luxurious relax cabanas, three private hot tubs, a sauna, and serene forest walkways. A bespoke bridge will seamlessly connect the new Forest Spa Garden to the main spa, creating a fully immersive wellness journey.

Colin Johnston, Managing Director, Galgorm Collection, said:

“These investments allow us to push boundaries in creating exceptional guest experiences. The junior suites’ private balcony hot tubs offer guests a spa retreat within their own room, while the Forest Spa Garden introduces an entirely new way to relax and reconnect with nature. Our guests both from home and overseas can expect even more from Galgorm, and this latest chapter reflects our vision for world-class hospitality here in Northern Ireland.”

The new Forest Spa Garden will be open to all overnight and day spa guests, whilst also aimed at specifically providing an accessible wellness experience for guests staying in Galgorm’s newly opened Forest Dens, the resort’s unique eco-friendly accommodations which have quickly become a popular choice for those who want to combine luxury with an experience immersed in nature. This new development ensures that Forest Den guests can enjoy the same high standard of Galgorm’s Thermal Spa Village facilities close to their accommodation, offering convenience without compromising on luxury.

The Forest Dens, featured in The Irish Independent’s Fab 50 list of Ireland’s best places to stay in 2025, provide a distinctive combination of nature and comfort, with a private garden terrace, outdoor shower, wood-fired bath, and private sauna, nestled under a canopy of trees for the ultimate secluded retreat.

This latest investment forms part of Galgorm’s broader £40 million expansion strategy to 2027, reinforcing its role in growing and futureproofing Northern Ireland’s tourism and hospitality industry. The resort, the flagship property in the Galgorm Collection portfolio, has already seen over £60 million invested since 2010, whilst the hospitality group also recently announced it had acquired Galgorm Castle Estate in Ballymena and Roe Valley Resort in Limavady for a combined £28 million, committing an additional £22 million to enhance the properties and estates over the next five years. Galgorm Collection opened the £15m Rabbit Hotel & Retreat in Templepatrick, Co. Antrim in 2019, and in 2021 acquired and revamped The Old Inn in Crawfordsburn, complete with £2.5m outdoor Treetop Spa and enhanced accommodation and dining facilities.

Colin added;

“As international travel continues to rebound and domestic tourism flourishes, our focus remains on delivering premium, experience-led hospitality across our entire property portfolio. We are proud to contribute to the vibrancy of Northern Ireland’s tourism offering and look forward to welcoming even more guests from domestic and overseas markets to experience everything Galgorm has to offer.”

Galgorm’s Thermal Spa Village, a highlight of the resort, continues to attract international recognition, with recent accolades including Best Spa Experience 2025 at the prestigious Condé Nast Johansens Awards, Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa at the 2024 World Luxury Awards, and Best Luxury Riverside Resort in Northern Europe at the 2023 World Spa & Wellness Awards.

For more information or to book a stay in a Galgorm Forest Den please visit

https://www.galgorm.com/accommodation-lodges.html#forest-dens-with-boho-backyard

To book a Superior Room visit

https://www.galgorm.com/superior-king.html

https://www.galgorm.com/junior-suite-with-hot-tub.html

The time to think about your skincare routine is not for the week before your wedding, in fact it is ideal to prep a few months out. Ideally 3-4 months prior to the wedding, you want to prioritise your routine. This is how you are going to achieve that bridal glow!

From deep hydration, thorough cleansing, and exfoliation, these all play a crucial role in the optimum health of your skin.

Regular facials can help to combat specific concerns like acne, pigmentation, or dullness, or you can opt for our noninvasive skin treatments that will not only treat skin concerns, but help to brighten, tighten, and lift the facial contours, with the help of our Elemis Biotec 2.0 machine.

Alongside professionally driven facials, it is important that you maintain of your skin with a strict routine at home, on the lead up to the big day. This will not only benefit the professional strength treatments you will have done but will preserve your skin’s radiance and health in between each session. Think of it like going to the gym for your regular fitness sessions. They will have no great effect if you do not continue your healthy approach at home with your nutrition and wellness.

Cleansing:

Cleanse twice per day! Cleanse in the morning and at nighttime. A nighttime cleanse is essential to remove the built-up debris from the day. So that your next products in your routine can work to their full potential. It is also important to cleanse and prepare the skin in the morning, as without knowing it your skin will eliminate toxins while you sleep, and your body goes into repair, so you need to ensure you wash these off before applying your products and SPF.

Pro Choice- Elemis Pro Collagen Energising Marine cleanser, for dry, dull skin. To help break down dean skin cells, whilst also providing moisture, reveal bright, luminous, hydrated skin.

Exfoliating:

This is a crucial step in healthy glowing skin. While dead skin is not visible to the naked eye, this is what will make your skin appear dull and lack luster. Perform an exfoliation twice per week for optimum results.

Pro Choice- Elemis Pro Collagen Ti-Acid peel is an anti-wrinkle exfoliant. Actobionic, Asiatic and Mandelic acids, help to lift away dead skin cells while hydrating the skin for a renewed appearance. Not only does it remove dead skin, but it is also clinically proven to improve fine lines and wrinkles.

Serums and oils:

Using serum in your routine is like adding protein powder into your morning porridge. Serum is a super charger for the skin! Depending on the skin’s needs there will be a specific serum for you. My favourite serums will always include Hyaluronic Acid or Vitamin C.

Hyaluronic Acid is known as the hero of skincare ingredients, to hydrate and plump the skin out, reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Whereas Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, protecting the skin from environmental damage and it can promote collagen production in the skin, helping rebuild your skins strength and structure (a built-in facelift).

Pro Heroes -

Elemis Rose micro serum is for those needing hydration and plumping effects. This is a dual phase formula of oil in serum. This will not only hydrate but replenish lost moisture. This product contains an ingredient called red algae which is proven to be x3 times as effective as hyaluronic acid. X3 the plump, x3 the hydration and x3 the glow!

Elemis Dynamic resurfacing super C serum, ideal for glass like, smooth, congestion free skin. With ingredients like red clover, which reduces the amount of oil produced in the skin and Swiss alpine to help the reduction in pigmentation, this serum gets to work and has been clinically tested to brighten and smooth the skin in as little as 5 days!

Moisturisers:

Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise! Whether you have dry, oily or combination skin, moisturiser is an essential product to incorporate into your routine. As we age, the oil glands in our skin begin to slow in production, therefore we begin to dry out. By moisturising daily, you can help to maintain the health of your skin.

When your skin dries out, it can cause many skin issues, such as irritation, flaking and more instances of breakout. This is because the oil glands try to counteract the dryness by overworking and can clog your pores and cause tiny infections and breakouts.

It is also a protection product, if we fill our pores with levels of hydration from the moisturiser, there is less chance of everyday pollutants building up in the pores, therefore less damage overall to the skin.

Pro Choice- Pro Collagen Marine cream SPF 30; the product where Elemis began! This moisturiser is clinically proven to reduce fine lines in 2 weeks, offering the skin 24 hours of hydration. It is a lightweight gel-cream, perfect for all skin types, with added protection from UVA and UVB rays.

If you are a 2024 bride and want to invest in your skin for the big day, book in for a skin consultation today with one of our skin experts at The Skin Clinic!

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

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.” 

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 

20 - 22 April 2026 | Galgorm Resort, Northern Ireland

The British Sauna Society is delighted to announce the return of the UK Aufguss Championships to the award-winning Galgorm Resort, taking place from 20–22 April 2026. This marks the second time the championships will be hosted at Galgorm, following a highly successful debut in 2024.

For 2026, the championship format expands in an exciting new direction, with the introduction of the Modern Classic Aufguss category, in addition to the existing Performance Aufguss Single and Team competitions.

This expanded format reflects the rapid growth of Aufguss across the UK and internationally, while opening the door to both established and emerging Sauna Masters to showcase a wider spectrum of creative, technical, and traditional skills.

Two paths, one championship

In Performance Aufguss, Singles and Teams will deliver immersive, theatrical sauna rituals combining choreography, music, storytelling, and advanced heat and aroma craftsmanship. Winners will go on to represent the UK at the Aufguss World Championships Finals at Satama Sauna Resort in September 2026. Runners-up will qualify for the Play-Offs at Thermen Bussloo in August 2026, offering a further route to the world stage.

New for the UK in 2026, the Modern Classic Aufguss category celebrates the roots of the discipline, focusing on traditional technique, ritual structure, and refined heat distribution. The winner of this category will qualify for the World Finals at Farris Bad later in 2026.

Both competitions will be judged by an international jury of certified Aufguss experts, ensuring the highest standards of fairness, professionalism, and alignment with global best practice.

“The introduction of the Modern Classic category alongside Performance Aufguss represents a huge step forward for Aufguss in the UK. It allows us to honour tradition while celebrating innovation, giving Sauna Masters at all levels the opportunity to grow, refine their craft, and compete internationally. We are thrilled to return to Galgorm, a resort that truly understands and supports authentic sauna culture.”

— Deborah Carr, UK Aufguss Lead, British Sauna Society

A destination event for guests and competitors

The combined format is expected to bring fresh energy and depth to the championships, creating a compelling experience for spectators and spa guests, while providing a richer competitive platform for Sauna Masters at every stage of their journey. Alongside the competition itself, visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere celebrating contemporary sauna culture, ritual, and wellbeing.

Crucially for competitors, the 2026 championships will also feature attractive cash prizes, adding further incentive for ambitious Sauna Masters to step onto the national stage and test themselves against the UK’s best.

“The UK Aufguss Championships are always an incredible experience, and Galgorm is a fantastic setting for such a high-energy and creative competition. It’s a really fun event to be part of, with an amazing atmosphere, and as reigning UK champion, I’m really looking forward to returning, defending the title, and seeing what the next wave of Sauna Masters brings to the competition.”

— Zak Moore, Reigning UK Aufguss Champion

A valuable business investment for saunas and spas

The championships also highlight the wider value of investing in Aufguss within spa and wellbeing businesses. Spas that actively sponsor and support their teams to train and compete consistently report significant commercial and cultural returns. Investment in high-quality sauna ritual programmes has been shown to drive stronger member retention, increased guest satisfaction, and deeper engagement with thermal spa offerings — reinforcing sauna as both a cultural centrepiece and a powerful business asset.

“We are delighted to welcome the UK Aufguss Championships back to Galgorm in 2026 and to once again host the British Sauna Society within our Thermal Spa Village. Sauna has always been at the heart of our wellbeing offering, and Aufguss plays an important role in how we deliver immersive, authentic thermal experiences for our guests. Following the success of the championships here in 2024, it’s a privilege to provide a setting where world-class sauna mastery, tradition and innovation can be experienced at this level.”

— Tara Moore, Associate Director of Spa Operations, Galgorm Resort

Tickets and entry.

Galgorm Resort are offering day and overnight packages starting from just £85 - more details, as well as participant information for competitors, are available via the British Sauna Society website.

To book tickets, plan your visit, or find out how to enter:

www.britishsaunasociety.org.uk/uk-aufguss-championships

Historic hotel The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, has confirmed it will open a new outdoor spa offering exclusively for residents from 1 December following a £2.5 million investment to bring Galgorm’s renowned world-class hospitality and spa offering to the historic property.

Luxury historic hotel The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn, has confirmed it will open a new outdoor spa offering exclusively for residents from 1 December following a £2.5 million investment to bring Galgorm’s renowned world-class hospitality and spa offering to the historic property.

Perched above Crawfordsburn Country Park, the new Treetop Spa at The Old Inn offers guests unrivalled forest views stretching out to the North Down coastline and will see the addition of a range of new experiences including a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, sauna, hot tubs and relax space set within its tranquil grounds, offering residents an enhanced hospitality experience.

Occupying a prominent 1.5-acre site in the heart of Crawfordsburn village - just 20 minutes from Belfast – the iconic thatched-roof property is one of the UK and Ireland’s top hotels. With a rich history dating back to 1614 The Old Inn is primed for a new chapter of growth with Galgorm Collection at its helm.

Since acquiring the property in April last year, Galgorm Collection, which owns the world-renowned Galgorm and a number of other properties across Belfast and Antrim, has already invested more than £1 million in refurbishing the property to its exacting, first-class standards.

This has included revamping its cosy 1614 bar and refurbishing its 120-seater Old Inn restaurant which offers diners a brand new menu that marries homely classics with modern dining, featuring French-inspired dishes, seafood and salads.

Galgorm Collection is also upgrading all 32 guestrooms as part of plans to revitalise and upgrade the historic destination, in line with other Collection properties.

Individually styled and luxuriously appointed, The Old Inn offers five room types - petite, carriage, highway, junior suite and suite – with some of its premier room offerings already refreshed.

The Old Inn Suite now boasts its own private balcony complete with outdoor hot tub overlooking the Treetop Spa whilst the first of its Junior Suites also completed a makeover to include

bespoke finishing touches including a free-standing copper bath to complement the chic French-inspired furniture.

The property’s premier cottage accommodation set within the hotel’s grounds – and famed for being the honeymoon spot of world-famous local author C.S. Lewis – now comes complete with its own secluded outdoor hot tub for the ultimate tranquil forest bathing experience.

Plans to reimagine the hotel’s private dining space are also in progress, with refurbishment expected to be complete by early 2023.

Colin Johnston, Galgorm Collection Managing Director, said:

“The Old Inn is one of Northern Ireland’s most historic hotels and we have carefully considered our refurbishment works to ensure we remain sympathetic to the property’s history and retain its much-loved charm whilst also giving it the ‘Galgorm’ treatment, bringing this in line with our other award-winning properties.

After centuries of providing warm hospitality to guests and travellers, the time is right to further invest in this iconic property to expand its offering and widen its appeal to attract more local, national and international visitors.

Galgorm Collection is focused on investing in the region to support tourism, jobs and the wider economy. We’re confident that The Old Inn’s new-look offering will deliver a new chapter of growth for us and for Northern Ireland.”

Since opening its doors last year under the guardianship of Galgorm Collection, The Old Inn has already received accreditations for excellence and was ranked #11 in the prestigious Irish Independent’s ‘Fab 50 Best Places to Stay’ in the island of Ireland.

Charlotte McClean, Manager at The Old Inn, commented:

“As we continue to progress our planned redevelopment works, I’m delighted to confirm that the new Treetop Spa will open to residents from 1 December. This has been a long-awaited project and we’re already experiencing strong demand for bookings with guests eager to enjoy an exciting new outdoor spa offering within a stunning landscape.

Located next to a breathtaking country park and picturesque coastline, The Old Inn is the perfect rural retreat for guests keen to relax and connect with nature. We’re also excited to welcome our wonderful neighbours, who are the lifeblood of the property, to enjoy a new-look offering, with new seasonal menus available in our restaurant and our cosy 1614 bar undergoing a refresh to also welcome dogs for the first time.

It’s an exciting time for The Old Inn and we’re committed to providing a premier hospitality experience for all of our guests joining us from near and far.”

Galgorm is renowned for creating world-class hospitality experiences throughout its award-winning properties in Northern Ireland. Previously crowned Global Luxury Spa Hotel of the Year, Galgorm was most recently awarded Best Luxury Golf Resort and Best Luxury Golf Resort Spa in Europe and Best Head Chef in the Region by the World Luxury Spa Awards 2021. The Resort also picked up Best Spa Experience within the UK and Ireland at the Condé Nast Johansens UK, Ireland, Europe & the Mediterranean, Awards for Excellence 2021 and was crowned Resort Spa of the Year at the World Spa & Wellness Awards 2020.

Most recently, Galgorm was named Ireland’s Best 4* Spa Experience at the Hotel & Catering Review Gold Medal Awards 2022 in recognition for its excellence in hospitality and also picked up a silver award for Ireland’s Best Four-Star Resort. The property also picked up two gongs for its hospitality offering at the 2022 Bar of the Year Awards.

For more information, or to be among the first to experience the new Treetop Spa at The Old Inn, please visit theoldinn.com

Galgorm has announced an exciting partnership with ELEMIS, offering guests an extensive range of high-performance products and treatments exclusive to Galgorm’s spa.

As a leading luxury British skin wellness brand, ELEMIS is globally recognised for harnessing the power of natural ingredients and scientific innovation. Each ground-breaking formula is rigorously tested to ensure transformative results. ELEMIS maintains an unwavering focus on skin, body, and wellness. 

Selected for its synergy with the ethos of Galgorm’s internationally acclaimed spa facilities, this new partnership combines advanced, premium skincare products and treatments with highly skilled professional therapists in a unique and luxurious setting. 

Noella Gabriel, Global President and Co-Founder, ELEMIS commented on the unique success of the brand and its new partnership with Galgorm:

“At ELEMIS, we know that healthy skin starts from within, and we are committed to unlocking the secrets of skin health. Our approach to skincare has always been results drive and wellness focused, backed by over 30 years of research and development. I am delighted to announce our new partnership with Galgorm, and I look forward to engaging with their renowned guests and customers with our range of products and treatments.

Tara Moore, Head of Spa Operations at Galgorm said:

“We are thrilled to partner with ELEMIS, it is a very fitting brand for us and will expand our already extensive range of advanced, premium skincare products and treatments. This new partnership underlines our commitment to staying at the forefront of the skincare industry so we can offer our guests the best and most effective skincare treatments in Northern Ireland.”

Galgorm’s internationally renowned retreat has been widely commended for its sustained commitment to excellence and its outstanding achievement within the wider international luxury spa and wellness industry, adding a string of new awards to its growing collection. 

It has been recognised recently by two global platforms, winning an unprecedented six awards at the prestigious 2023 World Luxury Awards, and securing the Best Destination Spa 2024 title at the recent Conde Nast Johansens Awards. 

ELEMIS treatments and products are available for booking and purchase at the Galgorm from today. Visit www.galgorm.com/residents-spa-treatments.html for more information.

Galgorm, Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel and spa resort, has announced the launch of a revolutionary spa treatment, which combines therapeutic expertise with state-of-the-art wellness technology to deliver a unique motion-to-sound ‘augmented massage’ experience tailored to individual client needs. 

The first spa treatment of its kind in Europe, the new Symphony of Touch treatment transforms the traditional wellness journey by blending advanced technology with the artistry of therapeutic touch, creating a deeply personalised experience that evolves in real-time with the movements of the therapist.

Built-in sensors within the therapy bed analyse the therapist’s movements and gestures, converting them into a live, dynamic soundscape - offering a seamless fusion of touch, sound, and relaxation that guides and enhances the treatment. The melodies and rhythms that are generated by the therapist’s movements create a bespoke, ever-changing musical interpretation and truly unique performance for each guest. 

This 21st-century massage experience redefines the art of massage, merging human touch with cutting-edge biofeedback technology to create an immersive and deeply restorative experience. The treatment is designed to heighten sensory awareness, allowing guests to reach a deep state of mindfulness and tranquillity. 

Tara Moore, Head of Spa Operations, Galgorm Collection, commented;

“At Galgorm, we are committed to pioneering new spa experiences that transform health and wellbeing. The Symphony of Touch is unlike anything guests have encountered before - blending human energy with innovative technology to create an unparalleled sensory journey. 

“We are thrilled to be the first spa resort in Europe to introduce this treatment, offering our guests a truly exceptional and immersive spa experience that will melt away their tensions, help them to escape the stresses of everyday life as they focus on the harmonies that surround them, and leave them feeling completely rejuvenated and at peace.”

The new augmented massage technology at Galgorm is supplied by premium wellness technology provider Gharieni, which has more than 30 years of innovation and German engineering at its core. Gharieni boasts Galgorm as its flagship spa in Europe, thanks to Galgorm’s long-standing reputation for introducing cutting-edge wellness innovations to its spa offering.

In addition to the new augmented massage treatment, Galgorm also offers a pioneering Detox Therapy experience, which through advanced light and heat technologies works to recharge energy reserves, remove toxins and inflammation from within the body, boost metabolism and even lower stress levels. In 2024, it launched a non-invasive Sound & Soul Therapy treatment that combines natural vibrations and binaural sound to guide brainwaves into relaxation, meditation and focus.

Tara continued;

“We have a longstanding and successful partnership with Gharieni, having worked with them previously to launch our innovative Sound & Soul therapy, which through the delivery of sound frequencies into the body, and facilitated by Gharieni’s innovative RLX Satori Wellness Lounger, enhances body-mind synchronisation.

“Our renowned OTO CBD Signature Treatment, which includes a full body massage aimed at activating the endocannabinoid system through the use of OTO CBD oils, takes place on a Gharieni treatment bed of heated quartz sand, to cocoon the body for ultimate relaxation. 

"As Galgorm continues to push the boundaries of wellness innovation, the augmented massage as the latest addition to our spa treatment menu reinforces our position as a leader in the luxury wellness industry, setting new standards for immersive spa experiences that combine the latest technology with world-leading spa expertise."

The ground-breaking Symphony of Touch augmented massage is an immersive 60-minute treatment available now to guests staying at Galgorm. It is also available to day spa guests as part of the Symphony of Serenity day spa package, which includes access to Galgorm’s renowned Thermal Spa Village, a spa lunch, and a choice of prosecco or a soft drink. 

For more information or to book the Symphony of Touch treatment, or the Symphony of Serenity Day Spa experience, visit

https://www.galgorm.com/residents-treatment---60-minute-symphony-of-touch.html