Folklore-inspired spa debuts in 13th century Irish castle

Red Carnation Hotels’ Ashford Castle in Ireland has unveiled a new five-treatment room spa and gym, marking the completion of a two-year restoration and enhancement programme at the castle.

The Spa at Ashford Castle is inspired by the location and history of the iconic castle, parts of which date back to the 13th century.

“The opening of the spa is the final piece in the puzzle of the phenomenal restoration and renovation that Ashford Castle has undergone since we became part of the Red Carnation Hotel collection in spring 2013,” said general manager Niall Rochford.

A striking new bronze conservatory, designed by French architect Phillipe Bonino, houses an indoor resistance pool with views across the Lough Corrib and featuring see shell chandeliers. A Tree of Life mural, by South African mosaic artist Jane Du Rand, stretches across an entire wall of the pool area. Drawing inspiration from Irish folklore, the mural centres around an oak tree, which Celts believed was a cosmic storehouse of wisdom and whose acorns were considered good luck.

Decorated in muted greys, earthy greens and creams, the spa also has a hammam, steamroom, manicure and pedicure area, relaxation suite and outdoor terrace with views over the lake.

Treatments include hot stone massages, aroma and marine therapy, facials, scrubs and wraps. Product houses are Voya, Elemis and Red Carnation Hotels’ BAfrica, which was previously exclusive to the collection’s South Africa properties.

The spa also includes PureFlow Fitness sessions, a procedure designed to enhance the body’s blood flow to make the brain more alert, combat fatigue and help improve endurance, performance and recovery.

The castle features 350 acres of landscaped gardens, rolling hills and woodland for additional wellness exploration, as well as golf, falconry, fishing, tennis, horse-riding and cycling.