Galgorm Resort & Spa

This sweet riverside escape is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s best hotels, combining refined hospitality with gorgeous rural surroundings. Despite being just 30 minutes from Belfast, the lush 163-acre haven is a world of its own. And when you’re sipping champagne in the hot tub, with the river rushing by, any qualms of everyday life melt away.

First impressions

The fresh countryside air is the perfect welcome to Galgorm. But the warm staff are a close second, with a doorman ready to welcome you in, helping this country house establish its luxury escape credentials.

Location

The hotel is located on the outskirts of Ballymena, just 30 minutes from Belfast and its two airports.

A famous filming location for Game of Thrones, the Dark Hedges, is just a 30-minute drive away. And the home of Irish poet and playwright Seamus Heaney is also 30 minutes away.

The Grounds

With 163 acres of mature woodlands and no other buildings in sight, it’s easy to forget you’re so close to the town. You can rent bikes or ride horses to explore the grounds for an additional cost.

Facilities and Services

Calling Galgorm a spa hotel doesn’t sit right – it’s a sprawling spa, with several areas – its gorgeous rooms are the cherry on top. Get five-star Elemis treatments, relax in a riverside hot tub, or cocoon in one of the many saunas. There’s so much to explore – including a snow cabin and a salt save – that it’s unlikely that you’ll see it all. But the Thermal Village is a must-visit – a mix-and-match of hot and cool spa experiences. The only way to leave here is relaxed.

There’s also a two-floor gym, an indoor pool, a 72-par championship golf course, and tennis courts.

Rooms

There are 125 rooms, including suites, deluxe rooms, and superior rooms. All rooms either face the spa or the river, and a few suites feature wraparound terraces and private hot tubs. There are also complimentary minibars, Dyson fans, GHD hairdryers, pod coffee machines, and snack boxes stocked with local goodies.

Galgorm averages a 90% occupancy throughout the year, so it’s no wonder the owners have thought of new ways to get everyone in. There are cosy self-catering lodges, including shepherd’s huts, forest dens, and log cabins – almost all with a private hot tub. The Sherpherd’s Hut Suite is particularly beautiful, with the River Maine rushing beside the hot tub.

Food & Drink

Galgorm’s Italian restaurant, Fratelli’s, is so loved that they opened another one in Belfast. The crab risotto is a crowd favourite, but any of their chicchetti dishes, the equivalent to Italian tapas, are deliciously fresh.

Grillies Grill is an intriguing mixed bag but it manages to pull it off. The kitchen slings out classic brasserie dishes, like burgers and steaks, as well as excellent Asian-inspired food. The Korean BBQ pork starter is a favourite. They do a great Sunday lunch, too. Oh, and there’s live music.

The River Room hosts afternoon tea, gin tastings, and a great breakfast, with views of the river and forest. There’s a good breakfast buffet, as well as hot dishes made to order, like a ham and cheese omelette. Or, you can opt for brunch at Elements, which serves elevated breakfast dishes.

There are a few excellent places for a drink too, including Mckrendry’s, which has the feel of a cosy Irish pub, and live bands at the Barn.

Is Galgorm family-friendly?

Yes, there are plenty of accommodation types for families to stay together, as well as family times in the pool. There’s also a range of DVDs and board games, and families can play tennis or ride bikes in the woods. Fratelli’s also get the kids involved in pizza making.

Is Galgorm accessible?

Bedrooms and guest areas are mostly accessible. There’s a motorised pool lift, 20 accessible parking spaces, and disability-trained staff. However, many of the spa areas are not accessible.

Is Galgorm dog-friendly?

Yes, Galgorm is dog-friendly. There are several dog-friendly lodgings here, including the forest den’s, log cabins, and shepherd’s huts.