Looking for a trip where nature and luxury are available in abundance? Mars Webb visits Killeavy Castle Estate Hotel and Spa – A Paradise Stay
Looking for a weekend getaway to celebrate my friend’s birthday, I wanted somewhere close to Belfast that offered a spa, served high quality food and really had something special about nature with great walks.
Killeavy Castle Estate Hotel was the perfect choice. Located on the eastern tip of Slieve Gullion in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, it is a peaceful and beautiful place, with magical forests and beautiful trails. For those who want a more vigorous activity, there are excellent hiking routes in Slieve Gullion.
It is located at the eastern foot of Slieve Gullion in County Armagh, Northern Ireland
A great drive up to the hotel and a warm welcome upon entering Killeavy Castle set the tone for a relaxing weekend. Sarah, from the front desk, took pride in showing the history of the building and gave us a tour before settling in line for our meal.
Prosperity in Abundance
In addition to walking and hiking trails, the hotel offers a variety of wellness activities, from forest bathing and yoga retreats to cycling, guided walks, and cooking experiences. There are also seasonal activities provided by the hotel.
Exceptional Comfort and Charm
At Killeavy Castle, attention to detail, comfort, and charm abound from the moment you arrive until you leave, making you feel genuinely welcomed and valued as a guest.
The hotel is steeped in history and has been cleverly and considerately restored. The main hotel, with 45 bedrooms, was originally a Mill and Coach House. The building has been beautifully renovated, attracting guests to take in the views of the Estate.
Historical elegance
Perched above the hotel is Killeavy Castle, a stunning Grade A listed building with Gothic glamor and exquisite interiors, including a beautiful dining room available for private hire.
The castle is self-contained with four bedrooms, a bathroom, and a lovely antique bath in one of the towers. Stone walls, hanging tapestries, rich fabrics, and luxurious four-poster beds add to the appeal.
Weddings are held in the Castle, separate from the main hotel building, making it ideal for wedding parties and other hotel guests who prefer not to be disturbed.
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Room for Rest
There are many nice places to sit and relax throughout the hotel. The decor is modern yet warm, thoughtfully mixing the walls of the old factory building painted in soft gray, burnt orange, and sage greens, complementing the surrounding landscape.
The main hotel has 45 bedrooms; We are spacious and contemporary, with well-stocked bathrooms featuring Rituals beauty products, coffee machines, and mini-bars.
Very large windows with views over the countryside
Celebrating a special birthday, the hotel graciously upgraded the rooms. Room 305 is beautiful, spacious, and offers beautiful large windows with views over the countryside.
As well as the main hotel and the castle there are other rooms in the grounds including Gatelodge, a Woodside Residence and a cottage and which are dog friendly – but check before you book.
Food for the Feast
The hotel has a bistro and a main restaurant. On our first night, we dined at Gullion At Killeavy, the main restaurant. Head Chef Darragh Dooley’s food is incredible.
We enjoyed the four course tasting menu, although a seven course tasting menu with wine pairings is also available. The Taste of The Estate menu is innovative, exquisite, and a truly special experience.
The staff were knowledgeable, passionate, and took pride in making sure we enjoyed our dining experience.
Bistro offers a more relaxed atmosphere and menu, with good food made from estate and local ingredients. Killeavy Castle Estate offers an exceptional farm-to-fork dining experience, worth the trip just for the food.
One really judges a hotel by its breakfast and Killeavy did not disappoint. They are very good with many options. A continental buffet offering a variety of fruits, juices, and pastries, along with estate meats. Alternatively, you can order freshly cooked items from the menu, such as pancakes or Eggs Benedict.
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Spa in Killeavy
The spa, although not big, has everything you need. It is well designed, and like everything in Killeavy, there is attention to detail, coupled with wonderful and wonderful staff.
My friend and I enjoyed the best massage we have had in a long time. Using the Elemis products at the Spa which I love, we have a ‘Hot Mineral Boost Body Massage’ which is soothing and relaxing. The treatment rooms are beautiful, carefully redesigned, with heated beds and small details that make all the difference.
The spa includes a hydro pool, Tylarium (sauna), outdoor hot tub, aroma shower, cold bucket shower, and relaxation suite stocked with tea, fresh fruit, and water. We love and Emma who is my therapist is amazing.
My friend and I enjoyed the best massage we have had in a long time
Although the spa is compact in Killeavy you book a slot before you go in so it doesn’t get too busy which is great and the second time we were there, we actually ended up having the whole spa to ourselves when we went in at 17:30.
Commitment to Sustainability
Killeavy Castle Estate is committed to sustainability, with ongoing efforts to plant over 35,000 American Pine and Spruce trees and a vision to become carbon neutral. The hotel embraces eco-conscious practices, sourcing produce on-site or locally whenever possible and constantly striving to improve energy efficiency, and working to eliminate single-use plastics.
The farm shop is excellent with lots of local goods, ice cream as well as local meat from 365 acres. strengthen their dedication to maintaining the beauty and sustainability of the area.
A Keep it memorable
Killeavy Castle is truly special. We meet several guests who return every year, drawn by the tranquility, comfort, and nurturing atmosphere. I would go back and even travel just to eat at Gullion At Killeavy.
Killeavy Castle Estate, located in County Armagh, Northern Ireland, is accessible from both Dublin and Belfast airports, an hour away.
Rates vary, with package deals for spa packages, B&B, and dining experiences.
Killeavy Spa prices are reasonable.
full website: Killeavy Castle.
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