Since the arrival of exotic spa treatments to our shores, Killarney's top hotels have embraced the concept with a passion and with seven spa options on offer; it is arguably the 'wellness and wellbeing' capital of Ireland. The words beauty, peace and tranquility are normally applied to Killarney itself but thanks to its superb range of spas, the words also appropriately describe the experiences awaiting visitors to these establishments.
The Spa at Aghadoe Heights
Resting on the hilltop overlooking the magnificent splendour of Lough Leane and the rugged Kerry mountains the award winning 'Best Hotel Resort Spa of the Year 2008' in Aghadoe is a special and spiritual place. Experience the intense relaxation of their thermal suite, with heated mosaic loungers, steam cabins and multi sensory showers. The nurturing hands of their award-winning therapists provide a variety of top to toe treatments, which are guaranteed to soothe, rebalance and invigorate your body, mind and soul. For reservations Tel: 064 66317 66, or go to www.aghadoeheights.com.
The Angsana Spa at The Brehon
It was the very first of its kind in Europe when it launched in 2004 and now due to overwhelming demand, The Angsana Spa at The Brehon, Killarney has opened 'Angsana at The Penthouse' with an additional relaxation room and three new spa treatment rooms. This spa offers an extensive range of holistic, non-clinical treatments and massages to refresh and revitalise the spirit, mind and physical being. Each therapist is trained at the Spa Academy in Phuket, Thailand. For reservations Tel: 064 66239 80, or go to www.thebrehon.com.
The Cloisters Spa at the Muckross Park
The stunning vitality pool includes hydro baths, where massage jets will gently relax your body, then feel revived in the ice fountain and themed showers, de-stress on the thermal loungers and relax in the herbal sauna and Arabian rasul. Enjoy the tranquility in their relaxation suite where four-poster loungers overlook the Blue Pool River. Their products include Aromatherapy Associates, Dr. Perricone, Ytsara and Decleor Men Essentials. For reservations Tel: 064 6623456 or go to www.muckrosspark.com.
ESPA at The Europe
A great way to see Killarney and its surrounding area is to cycle it. There are many cycle routes and paths and all levels of cyclists catered for from Cycling around The Killarney National Park to The Ring of Kerry Cycle Route. Another great challenge is to cycle through The Gap of Dunloe. From Killarney town centre cycle to Ross Castle and take the magnificent boat trip across the lakes to Lord Brandons Cottage. The trip takes in beautiful views of the mountains and meeting of the waters. From Lord Brandon's Cottage cycle through The Gap of Dunloe to Kate Kearney's Cottage.
The Spa at The Killarney Park
The Spa encompasses eight private, custom-built treatment suites, a specially designed relaxation room, hydrotherapy suite and a caldarium. Inside their treatment suites, serenity reigns supreme as you partake in an array of Elemis and Eve Lom treatments. Having become cocooned in your own world, venture into and sample the pleasures of their health and fitness club as well. For reservations tel: 064 66355 55, or go to www.killarneyparkhotel.ie.
Molton Brown Spa at the Killarney Plaza Hotel
Therapies reflect the feeling of the seasons; 'spring' treatments focus on renewal, 'summer' treatments on radiance, 'autumn' treatments on replenishing our resources, and 'winter' treatments on regenerating. Experience Molton Brown's signature Earth, Fire and Water Serail Therapy and The Gulfstream Underwater Therapy. Relax in your own secluded suite, while the warm underwater jets massaged every nook and cranny in your body. For reservations tel: 064 66211 00, or go to www.killarneyplaza.com
The Zen Day Spa at Randles Hotels
Uses exceptional Spa products from the elite Kerstin Florian range (to suit both men and women). Coupled with luxurious treatment rooms and personal service, we invite you to unwind, de-stress and indulge. Indeed, now the Zen Day Spa pampers mothers to be as the renowned Mama Mio maternity range has arrived. It is the first Killarney spa offering a complete product and treatment range for expectant mothers. The products are a favourite with celebrities such as Victoria Beckham and Christy Turlington. For reservations Tel: 064 66353 33, or go to www.randleshotels.com.