When it rains in Ireland, there’s a soft glimmer left on every surface, enhancing the deep emeralds of the countryside. Along the way from Dublin to Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa in County Kerry, passages from classic poems and legends are sparked by the sight of tall, standing stones rising from the thick grass of a meadow. The stones often date back to Druid times, and even now, when farmers or builders come across them on their land, they leave them just where they are, out of respect for old beliefs.‚
The elegant, five-star Aghadoe Heights overlooks the glittering Lakes of Killarney and is surrounded by verdant parkland perfect for long, contemplative walks. Once you’ve filled yourself with the scent of the rich landscape, head for the spa where you can park yourself in one of the sculpted, heated lounge chairs. Made from ceramics, the row of loungers‚ face a long bank of curved windows that look out on breathtaking views of the lake country beyond. Afterward, explore the Thermal Suite. The circuit begins in the comfortably warm Laconium, then progresses to an aromatic steam Hammam, before moving on to the dry heat Rock Sauna with its interior of Jerusalem stone and timber benches. The sauna faces a window filled with green-hued bubbling water for meditation.
Next, slip into the Aroma Grotto, filled with fragrant eucalyptus steam and a Kneipp hose for cooling your wrists and ankles. Conclude your day by cooling down beneath the selection of showers. There’s a Tropical Rain shower, scented Aghadoe Hill Mist, and Deluge shower with a cascade of warm water.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner in The Lake Room, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant. Choices include Trellace of Sea Trout with Rock Salt Beans and Sauce Verge, or plenty of lighter options from the spa dining menu. For dessert, enjoy a moonlight stroll through the gardens. By the time you head back down the long, winding drive toward the airport, you’ll feel like you’ve landed in a poem of your own.‚
Debra Bokur
For more information visit www.aghadoeheights.com; www.discoverireland.com
September/October 2008
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