Discover Cork on a Spa Break
By Bláthnaid King, January 29, 2024
If you’d like to fuse a relaxation and wellness experience with the fantastic selection of sites, shopping and entertainment Cork has to offer, here are some of our favourite things to do and spas to visit.
A few of our favourite things to do in Cork
Cork, Ireland’s largest county, offers plenty to locals and visitors alike. Known for great food, lively nightlife, and a beautiful coastline, there’s something for everyone who’s looking for a break.
Crawford Art Gallery
The Crawford Art Gallery, known to locals as The Crawford, is an impressive public art gallery and museum in the city centre. With over 3,000 works, you can view everything from 18th century painting and sculpture, to contemporary video installations.
The English Market
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love The English Market, which has been trading since 1788. It’s one of Europe’s oldest and best covered markets, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce. Enjoy delicious dishes from one of the many local stallholders, and take in the beautiful, bustling atmosphere and architecture.
Blackrock Castle Observatory
About 2km from the city centre is the Blackrock Castle Observatory. Set on the banks of the River Lee, this 16th century castle houses a science centre, observatory and restaurant. Outside the castle, is the start of the 7km Loch Mahon walking loop, which is an easygoing and scenic hike for those looking for time outdoors.
Scilly Walk
The colourful town of Kinsale has a lot to offer, and that includes walking trails. Follow Scilly Walk, a 6km trail that takes you from Kinsale village and along the stunning harbour, and optionally to Charles Fort before returning to the village. Walkers often catch a glimpse of sea life like seals, herons, and the occasional dolphin, as well as great views of the town.
Charles Fort
Charles Fort is a star-shaped military fortress that has stood firm since the 17th century. Overlooking the sea, the fort is not only beautiful, but filled with rich history. Whether you’re walking through the historic grounds, or taking in the gorgeous ocean views, it’s easy to see why this fort is considered a National Monument of Ireland.
Cork City Spas to visit
A pick of properties, perfect for those looking to unwind and relax without straying far from the city’s lively charm.
The Maryborough Spa
On the city’s doorstep, you’ll find The Maryborough Spa in Douglas provides a historical retreat nestled within beautiful 300-year-old gardens.
The spa combines the charm of its 18th-century origins with contemporary wellness facilities. Guests can unwind in the thermal suite, which includes a vitality pool, rock sauna, steam room, ice fountain, laconium, and lifestyle showers. The spa offers a range of ESPA treatments, all of which promise to leave you feeling calm, but quietly energetic.
The Spa at The Kingsley
Overlooking the River Lee, this spa is a sanctuary within the heart of the city. Only a short walk from Cork’s beautiful Fitzgerald Park and University College Cork’s historic grounds, it’s a great choice for those interested in tranquil walks through the city’s most beautiful areas.
It offers an extensive thermal suite, including a chromotherapy room, heated loungers, and tropical rainforest showers. The spa specialises in holistic treatments that cater to both physical and mental well-being, providing an urban oasis for those looking to detoxify and de-stress.
The Beautique at Hayfield Manor
The Beautique Spa operates on a philosophy of tailoring its treatments to all, including those with compromised health or those going through cancer treatments, making it a strong contender for visitors with specific needs. A flagship for GROUND Wellbeing products (Cork originated also) and it’s the first Elemis Spa in Ireland. It offers a personalised spa experience with bespoke treatments in a tranquil environment.
The spa features a relaxation lounge, indoor swimming pool, steam room, and sauna. The hotel, nestled within walled gardens in Cork City, provides an intimate and luxurious setting with its signature restaurant Orchids and a range of elegant accommodations.
Cork County Spas to visit
Outside the city, the spas offer a different kind of retreat – one that’s surrounded by the lush landscapes of Ireland’s countryside. Ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a more natural setting.
Kinsale Hotel & Spa
Located in the picturesque and historic town of Kinsale, this spa is a fusion of coastal charm, wellness and relaxation. Overlooking Oysterhaven Bay, it provides a serene setting for rejuvenation.
The spa boasts ten treatment rooms offering Elemis therapies, a relaxation room, pool, steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, gym, and a range of holistic treatments. Their selection of treatments combines elements from land, water and nature to heal, cleanse and refresh. Choose from a variety of luxurious therapies for the face and body to feel fully rejuvenated.
Castlemartyr Resort
In the quaint village of Castlemartyr, this 5-star resort’s spa is an award-winning wellness haven.
The Spa at Castlemartyr, offers a 24,400-square-foot wellness, spa and fitness centre, promising a space where you can leave your cares behind. Treatments here are crafted with ESPA products, blending natural ingredients for a deeply relaxing experience. Their range was carefully formulated to combine the therapeutic benefits of spa treatments, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy and skin care.
Fota Island Spa
On the serene Fota Island, this spa is a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity. It uniquely focuses on wellbeing –– offering a combination of therapies and ambience that energise and relax.
Ideal for spa-goers keen on spending time in nature, Fota Island Spa offers mature woodlands where you can breathe pure air and enjoy stunning views of the Resort’s natural landscapes.
The spa is home to Ireland’s only walking river, which is renowned for its assistance in healing sports and fatigue-related injuries. With eighteen treatment rooms and a hydrotherapy suite, the spa offers a holistic wellness journey in a setting of natural splendour.
If you’re interested in discovering more wellness venues, see all Spas in Cork here.
