Inside Mayo’s new state-of-the-art biophilic wellness sanctuary

If you’ve ever stepped foot inside Ashford Castle’s award-winning spa, you’ll know why we’re excited about their latest wellness launch in Co Mayo. Awarded Ireland’s Best Spa for the eight consecutive year, the original spa has everything from divine treatments and exquisite facilities to elaborate design features – including grand seashell chandeliers and the intricate Tree of Life mosaic above the relaxation pool.

Now, Ashford Castle is throwing open the doors to Éalú, a health and fitness facility open to Castle and Lodge guests. Nestled into the lush grounds of the estate, Éalú means “escape” in Irish and the new space certainly makes for a perfect getaway. The pavilion-style building is designed to draw the outside in, with panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows creating a sense of natural calm as the West of Ireland weather whips by outside.

Work Out

Designed as both a space to work out and to chill out, it finds the balance effortlessly. The new light-filled 15-metre pool was central to the plans, there is also a gym, fitness studio and therapy suite.

The gym is kitted out with high-tech equipment from the Life Fitness brand, including treadmills, cross trainers, bikes and weights, while the fitness studio is set up for individual or group classes including yoga and interval training. If you don’t fancy jumping straight into a class, the Halo app offers live and recorded classes for all abilities so you can go at your own pace. Unlike many soulless fitness spaces, Éalú’s gym facilities also boast floor-to-ceiling windows with views over Ashford’s rolling lakeside hills.

Chill Out

However, if gym-time doesn’t exactly say “downtime” to you, there are ample options to help you unwind too. The therapy suite at Éalú uses the Forbes-endorsed Natura Bissé beauty range to deliver personalised therapies aimed at rejuvenating the body and mind. Here, the décor is sumptuous and inviting, echoing the feel of The Spa to create an atmosphere that’s calm and tranquil.

It’s very family friendly too. Adults can zone out on the comfy poolside lounger, in the jacuzzi, essence-infused steam room, or KLAFS sauna while the kids tire themselves out in the children’s splash pool – you could easily while away a day here. 

Not yet open to general public membership just yet, now is the time to book your stay for exclusive access before the secret gets out.