As the evenings are gradually getting longer and the weather is becoming drearier and colder, it has never been a better time to enjoy some pampering.
The Square Spa at Hotel Meyrick, Galway is currently offering exemplary value with its Pick and Mix Pampering package. Customers can choose two, three, or four fabulous treatments from a list of 10. The choices include a hot stone back massage, mini Dermalogica facial, mini manicure, mini pedicure, Indian head massage, and a foot unwinder ritual.
It would have been remiss not to go along and investigate this package so I headed to the Square Spa and Health Club on the hotel’s fifth floor, where I was greeted by the friendly Anna, who promised to work her magic on my tired and aching muscles. Changing into a fluffy bathrobe and a pair of slippers, it was time to while a few calming and restful hours away.
First of the four treatments was a full body exfoliation; a mineral rich sea salt scrub is applied all over and it is a brilliant way of getting rid of those layers of dead skin to reveal a silky smooth complexion. It is an ideal treatment to have any time but especially a few days before a big event to prep skin for a full body tan.
The exfoliation was followed by a quick shower and the most relaxing hot stone massage ever. There are two aspects to this treatment, firstly the stones themselves, which are stored in a heated cabinet, are used by the therapist to relax the muscle, and this technique is interspersed with a Swedish massage to break down any tension.
The energising and revitalising oils with lovely aromas of sage, rosemary, geranium and cypress stimulate circulation. It is a truly relaxing experience and unsurprisingly as an office worker who sits at a desk for hours at a time, I was informed that I held all the tension in my shoulder area. It is certainly an ideal treatment for those who wish to alleviate the stress of the daily grind.
The tailored mini Dermalogica facial was next, and this incorporated exfoliation, face mapping skin analysis, and a mask which leaves the skin feeling deeply cleansed, clear and bright. In my opinion, Dermalogica is the best in the business, with the results from its product range speaking for themselves.
Finally was the mini manicure. Heated mittens were used to soften cuticles and increase hydration. Cuticles are repaired and nails filed and polished, to reveal immaculate talons. There is nothing more satisfying than admiring a pretty hand post manicure!
Four treatments later I was most certainly calm and rejuvenated. There is an array of options available as all spa customers are entitled to use the other facilities on the fifth floor; these include a steam room, Jacuzzi, gym and relaxation room. However the jewel in Hotel Meyrick’s crown is surely the outdoor hot tub, steaming hot and overlooking Eyre Square. Therefore the advice is, bring your swimsuit and soak up the view of the Galway skyline.
Along with the Pick and Mix Package, the hotel is also running a Tea and Therapy Package which incorporates the aforementioned hot stone massage followed by afternoon tea.
When you are (reluctantly ) ready to leave the relaxed surrounds of the spa, the Parlour Room and afternoon tea await. It is served on a visually enticing three tier platter and is utterly delectable. The delicate finger sandwiches are absolutely mouth-watering and the scones and sweet treats which include cheese cake and brownies melt on the tongue. A definite recomendation.
++Two treatments on the Pick and Mix Pampering Package costs €65, three cost €90, and four treatments are available for a very reasonable €115.
++The ‘Tea & Therapy’ package is available from €55 per person or €100 for two.
To book call 091-564041 or visit www.hotel meyrick.ie.
