Travel
A new natural retreat: Galgorm’s latest additions
Liz Earle revisits a Northern Irish wellbeing favourite – Galgorm.
Nestled in the heart of Northern Ireland’s lush countryside, Galgorm is a haven of tranquillity where luxury and nature intertwine seamlessly. The serene River Maine weaves its way through the estate, setting the tone for a retreat that nourishes both body and soul.
Galgorm’s commitment to wellness, comfort, and outdoor spa therapy is second to none. Newly reflected in a charming array of unique accommodations— Shepherd’s Huts and the newly introduced riverside Forest Dens—alongside its renowned Thermal Spa Village.
Inside Galgorm
Shepherd’s Huts: a rustic sanctuary
The Shepherd’s Huts are a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury. Perched amidst the resort’s verdant landscape, these bespoke accommodations offer a sense of seclusion that’s ideal for a digital detox or romantic escape. Each hut is thoughtfully designed, with a cosy wood-burning stove, outdoor copper bath, indoor plush furnishings and carefully curated amenities that create a home-away-from-home feel.
The private outdoor baths are a standout feature, inviting guests to soak under a blanket of stars. Imagine steaming water, the soft rustle of leaves, and the occasional hoot of an owl—a truly restorative experience that connects you to the rhythms of nature. The huts’ interiors strike a good balance between simplicity and comfort, with natural materials, earthy tones and every amenity needed, from Irish oatcakes and coffee pods to fresh milk (a big tick from me!) and an array of other liquid refreshments in the fridge.
Forest Dens: contemporary cocooning
For those seeking an even more secluded retreat, the stunning Forest Dens offer a super-chic alternative. Nestled deeper into the resort’s woodland with direct access to the riverbank, each one gives guests an immersive experience in nature. Scandinavian-inspired wooden design with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in.
The Forest Dens make a perfect romantic retreat, or even for a solo self-care getaway, with open-plan outdoor living spaces (mine even had an outdoor piano!), fire pit, a riverside hot tub, hammock, wood-fired sauna and outdoor shower. Inside the Dens, you’ll find a comfy bed and modern kitchenettes for self-catering. The private outdoor hot tub beside the river was the real winner for me – especially enjoyed on a starry night.
The Thermal Spa Village: a wellness wonderland
At the heart of Galgorm is the award-winning Thermal Spa Village, a sanctuary that redefines relaxation. Sprawling across the resort’s landscaped gardens, this wellness haven offers an incredibly extensive range of facilities designed to rejuvenate body and mind.
The River House, an airy retreat on the water’s edge, provides a space for yoga and meditation, while the communal riverside hot tubs and thermal pools are world class.
Signature experiences include the Snow Cabin, a crisp oasis of frosted air that invigorates the senses, and the Forest Sauna, which offers stunning views of the surrounding greenery. Guests can drift between these thermal experiences, letting stress melt away with each breath of eucalyptus-infused steam.
The main spa treatments are as luxurious as they are restorative, with a focus on natural, sustainable products. I trialled their new augmented massage, the Symphony of Touch, a fusion of human touch with Gharieni’s latest mind-body wellness technology. This involves a traditional (excellent) body massage matched by sounds of nature that mimic and follow the therapist’s moves – clever stuff.
Liz’s verdict
Galgorm is more than just a getaway—it’s a holistic escape that harmonises the beauty of nature with the comforts of contemporary luxury. Whether you’re cosying up in a Shepherd’s Hut, luxuriating in a Forest Den, or unwinding in the Thermal Spa Village, every moment is curated for your wellbeing. Even a brief stay here leaves you rejuvenated, reconnected and inspired to embrace a slower, more mindful pace of life.
From £180 per night.
