The g is a monument to Galway's boom. It's incredibly luscious, boasts a fantastic restaurant, and superb service. But behind the sheer wonderful lunacy of the front lobbies lies the sometimes forgotten ESPA.
Over Christmas I popped into the spa for a half day treatment. As we all know, Christmas is stressful, and why wouldn't it be with a combination of too many biscuits, gins, Quality Street, and dodgy telly. Something has to give, and as the pounds piled on and the beer continued to flow, I decided I needed to clear my head and my rather puffy body. So after days gorging I ventured into the spa, which it must be said is fantastic.
First up was the thermal suite which includes a rock sauna, tepidariums, crystal steam room, ice fountain, vitality pool, lifestyle shower, and rain shower. The vitality pool is the standout. It's perfectly heated to make you feel like you're swimming or, like me, splashing, in a warm bath. Individual jets shoot water, creating an uplifting aqua massage. The design of the room is stunning, keeping in touch with the rest of the hotel. Stone, wood, linen, and glass are used to generate a warm mood, with lights adding to the calm and comfort.
Next up, as part of my half day treatment, was a full body massage. After being introduced to my rather wonderful therapist we began with a gorgeous foot massage followed by the selection of the treatment oils amd lighting for my full body massage and facial.
The treatment was excellent but the attention to detail makes it stand out. Choosing your own lighting might seem bizarre, but it adds to the relaxation and the comfort. The massage lasted about 45 minutes, and was followed by a facial tailored specifically for men. The friendlessness and helpfulness of the staff is to be expected in a five-star hotel, but to be on the end of that level of service is always enjoyable.
Right now the spa is running the Renew treatment. It takes in a back, neck, and shoulder salt and oil scrub, and massage, a facial, plus chocolate and a smoothie in the relaxation room.
For more details contact the spa on (091 ) 778460, see www.ghotel.ie or e-mail [email protected]
