As the leaves turn golden and the air crisps with the promise of autumn, it’s time to indulge in this season’s opulence. The arrival of autumn means one thing – the perfect time for a short break to relax and unwind when the kids get back to school and the darker nights draw in.
As the summer’s warmth wanes, it paves the path for autumn’s one-of-a-kind charm and ambiance that makes autumn everyone’s favourite time of year.
With the mild temperatures providing a wonderful opportunity for walking, and the woodlands putting on a dazzling display, autumn is one of the most delightful seasons to enjoy a staycation.
For some of the best autumn escapes to unwind and recharge, check out the globally renowned Galgorm Collection, Northern Ireland’s premier collection of unique hotels, bars and restaurants, and enjoy those magical moments that make will make you fall in love with autumn.
Galgorm
(Spa days from €80 per person & overnight stays from €225 based on two people sharing)
Situated just 30 minutes from Belfast is Northern Ireland’s premier luxury hotel, Galgorm. Promising laid-back luxury and a world-class spa offering, Galgorm is the perfect retreat to relax, indulge and focus on your wellbeing as you head into this new season.
Whether enjoying a balmy riverside bathing experience, a refreshing detox therapy session, or simply taking a crisp walk throughout 380 acres of lush parklands, Galgorm offers the ideal autumn escape to be able to enjoy the great outdoors.
Cozy up in the Thermal Spa Village to chase away the autumn chill
Galgorm’s serene Thermal Spa Village is the perfect place to unwind and shake off the stresses of the day. Robe up, download the Galgorm Collection app and access the map for the Thermal Spa Village which will take you on a journey of serenity, relaxation and wellbeing in one of the best outdoor spas on the island of Ireland.
In one of the resort’s many saunas, sanariums, aroma steam rooms, or heated cabins, you can retreat from that distinctly autumnal nip in the air to emerge fully refreshed and ready to take on the new season.
Succumb to the tranquility of the Thermal Spa Village where you can enjoy a range of indoor and outdoor spa facilities designed to offer a truly authentic Irish spa experience and with a stay in a Deluxe Guestoom, indulge in a private bathing experience, Mud Rasul or Galgorm Detox Therapy treatment to take your body to a state of totally toasty relaxation this Autumn.
The Spa at Galgorm has it all – from hot tubs and vitality pools to the halotherapy salt cave and Celtic Sauna, it is no wonder it was crowned ‘Best Spa Facilities’ at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2023 and named Resort Spa of the Year at the World Spa & Wellness Awards 2022.
Experience the ultimate relaxation at your autumn retreat, where comfort and serenity await in a private Cottage Suite
Set on the serene grounds of the resort, the luxurious Cottage Suites offer a blend of countryside comfort with all the finest touches you would expect. With a choice of one, two or three bedrooms, the Cottage Suites are the perfect option for those who want to get away from it all and reconnect with nature.
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or enjoying an autumn staycation, you have the option to wine and dine in one of the onsite restaurants or in the comfort of your own space as each Cottage Suite has its own contemporary kitchen and luxurious dining area – the perfect space for intimate entertaining.
And with all lodging accommodation now available as dog-friendly, there’s no reason why your four-legged friend should be left out of the fun during your autumn escape.
Gather your inner circle for a luxurious autumn rendezvous at the Linen Merchant’s Residence
Located just a short walk away from the hotel, the Linen Merchant’s Residence offers comfort, privacy, and luxury for up to 10 guests in this striking property, making it the perfect location for a relaxing autumn retreat.
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply getting together with friends, you have the option to wine, dine and entertain in the comfort of your own space. The property itself has all the amenities you need for entertaining, including its very own outdoor hot tub and sauna, where you can lay back and relax as you take in the sounds, smells and colours of the season that surrounds you. The great news is your pets don’t have to miss out on all the fun as the property is dog-friendly.
Enjoy a hearty meal in Galgorm’s selection of world-class restaurants
Galgorm’s premier range of on-site restaurants offer something for everyone to refuel following a fresh walk on a misty autumn day.
Family favourite Fratelli oozes rustic Italian charm with a contemporary edge where guests can expect a warm welcome as you are served traditional pizza and pasta dishes with a modern twist. With a focus on simple and comforting yet quality cookery, children can ditch the wellie boots, hats and scarves for their very own apron and chef’s hat, as Fratelli’s Little Boars offering allows them to get involved and create their own pizzas. The family favorite restaurant also allows kids to eat free from Monday – Friday, 5pm – 7pm.
Set on the grounds of Galgorm, the distinct warmth and ambience of Castle Kitchen + Bar makes it a popular choice for guests and locals alike. The seasonal menu fuses an eclectic mix with modern dining twists, daily chef specials and house-made desserts, Castle Kitchen + Bar offers a unique dining experience set to ignite your taste buds from lunch, through to dinner and with an ‘early-birdie’ promotion running from Monday – Friday from 5pm -7pm, guests can enjoy a two-course meal from just £22.95. For those who like to indulge in an after dinner tipple, make your way to The Barn, Galgorm’s latest bar and entertainment venue, perfect for a cocktails with friends or catching live sport on the big screen. Live Entertainment Friday – Sunday.
And at the end of the day settle down for some craic at McKendry’s Bar & Lounge with live entertainment every evening. A whiskey lover’s heaven, McKendry’s boasts over 300 whiskey blends from 21 countries, sure to put some hairs on your chest this autumn.
For more information or to book online please visit www.galgorm.com, email [email protected] or call 028 2588 1001.
The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat
(Spa days from €90 per person & overnight stays from €225 based on two people sharing)
882 Antrim Road, Templepatrick, Ballyclare, Co. Antrim, BT39 0AH
Further into the heart of County Antrim sits The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat. Just 10 minutes from Belfast International Airport, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is the region’s most hyped attraction.
Named in the Irish Independent’s ‘FAB 50’ Top Stays in Ireland 2021, as well as the AA Hospitality Awards’ Hotel of the Year 2022 for Northern Ireland, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is an idyllic haven located in the picturesque village of Templepatrick and perched over a stunning lake, making it the ideal sanctuary from which to marvel in this fall.
With premier spa facilities, residents and day spa visitors alike can make the most of all that autumn has to offer, by soaking up the serene surroundings of the outdoor pool, complete with a showstopping disco ball.
Day Spa in style this autumn and soak in the lakeside views at The Spa
Perched over a stunning lake surrounded by trees and an abundance of wildlife, the outdoor spa offers the perfect opportunity to get back to nature in an environment of sophisticated luxury.
With Autumn Day Spa experiences available from €120pp, offering full spa access, a one course spa lunch, and a choice of two 30-minute treatments including a taster facial, back massage, head, shoulder & neck massage or pomegranate scrub and foot wrap, guests are guaranteed to leave with the feeling of pure relaxation and zen.
Although the summer months are now behind us, destress and reset for the new season ahead by chilling out in a unique Balearic inspired beach experience, pamper yourself with an indulgent massage, and sip on some autumn-inspired cocktails in the pool.
Cosy up in your fluffy robes and flip flops to enjoy unique experiences such as a private duo clay ritual, an interactive healing spa experience designed to energise, hydrate and detoxify the skin as part of your accommodation experience.
The Rabbit is the first hotel on the island of Ireland to have an exclusive lakeside heated pebble beach, so you can enjoy a feeling of pure relaxation and comfort. Indulge in the Rabbit’s bespoke menu of spa treatments that have been carefully curated to provide pure relaxation and zen as you burrow down this autumn.
Make your staycation memorable this autumn with a short break at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat
This fall, surround yourself in the detoxifying and purifying effects of The Rabbit’s unique Roman bath, Swedish sauna, salt chamber, and hot tubs, before burrowing down in one of the hotel’s quirky rooms for a unique spring staycation – from snug rooms to comfy boudoirs complete with outdoor bathtubs, you’ll not want to leave.
With a choice of overnight packages ranging from The Getaway to The Full Works, you can truly treat yourself to a totally tranquil retreat, availing of access to the spa, breakfast the following morning, a private duo clay ritual, and a delicious three-course meal in the restaurant.
And if you’re looking for dog-friendly accommodation, you’re barking up the right tree as the Comfy rooms with outdoor bathtubs are dog-friendly meaning you can make staycation plans that you pooch can be part of this autumn.
Relax in a snug setting and enjoy a country-inspired dining experience
A stylish, bold space makes the perfect place for relaxing, drinking and socialising.
Indulge in the epitome of autumn luxury at The Rabbit, where you can savour exquisite evening meals in the Rabbit restaurant, sip artisanal cocktails crafted by the in-house mixologist, or cosy up by the fire and relish some casual dining in Hunter’s Bar.
For those who don’t like to leave their beloved pooch behind, bring them along to the dog-friendly Hunter’s Bar where they can keep you company as you enjoy a refreshing drink and a lite seasonal bite, and meet The Rabbit’s resident dog Florence who always loves to make new furry friends.
For more information or to book online, visit www.rabbithotel.com, email [email protected] or call 028 9443 2984.
The Old Inn, Crawfordsburn
15-25 Main Street, Crawfordsburn, Bangor, Co. Down, BT19 1JH
(Bed & Breakfast stays available from €190)
Nestled in the charming village of Crawfordsburn, located just 10 minutes from Belfast, the Old Inn is perfect for a uniquely rural retreat this autumn, with the hotel overlooking stunning views of a beautiful country park.
With a history dating back to 1614, The Old Inn is one of Ireland’s most historic inns, and recognised for its unrivalled dining experience, it’s a firm favourite with foodies. Now with the TreeTop Spa – an addition to the historical property which earned the hotel its place in the Irish Independent’s #Fab50 Top Irish Stays for 2022, The Old Inn is the ultimate rural, gourmet retreat to dine and relax this fall.
Embark on an autumn culinary journey, with the Old Inn’s Autumn Gourmet Getaways
Step into the ultimate rural retreat; from the moment you walk in you are met with a crackling, inviting fireplace welcoming you through the door. After you’ve settled in, make your way to the Treetop Spa for a truly indulgent experience.
Begin your spa journey by enjoying some outdoor bathing in the stunning and relaxing hydrotherapy pool, before detoxifying the body and mind in the sauna and steam room. For that intimate spa experience, chill out with your plus one in the bubbling hot tub as you take in the unrivalled forest views stretching out to the North Down coastline and finally, unwind on the heated waterbed in the relaxation cabana or heated marble loungers whilst you relax in luxury in The Conservatory by the woodfire stove as classical music plays softly.
Once you have worked up an appetite, why not inspire your taste buds with a homely meal. There’s a reason The Old Inn, with a rosette for culinary excellence, has been recognised as an AA 4 Star Silver hotel, with foodies across the island of Ireland flocking in their droves to the gourmet destination.
After dinner, make your way to the 1614 Bar and cosy up by the fire as you sip on a nightcap, enjoying the company of the locals before retiring to your room for a silent night’s sleep. Of course, no stay would be complete without breakfast to send you on your way.
Catch up in the cosy corners and grab a light seasonal bite in the 1614 Bar
The 1614 Bar at the Old Inn exudes a relaxed vibe, with cosy corners by the crackling fire – the perfect place to heat on a crisp, cold day. Following an invigorating adventure searching for conkers in the Country Park or an energetic coastal walk to the nearby towns of Holywood or Bangor, grab a moment of rest from the crisp autumn air and relax with your canine companion nestled at your feet.
For those out and about exploring Crawfordsburn from Monday to Friday, indulge in the mid-week lunch special, offering a main course and a drink for just £16.14 in homage to the inn’s heritage. The hearty menu showcasing the best seasonal produce has something for everyone to enjoy. Furthermore, for those who praise themselves on their general knowledge, join in on the fun with the locals at the new pub quiz, taking place on the last Tuesday of every month.
For more information or to book online, visit www.theoldinn.com, email [email protected] or call 028 9185 3255.
