Departure Lounge: A new sauna experience at Ballynahinch Castle

Plus: budget-friendly kids' flights with Play; solo trips to the Maldives and more
Departure Lounge: A new sauna experience at Ballynahinch Castle

The new sauna at Ballynahinch castle

Woodland sauna

Just when we thought idyllic Ballynahinch Castle couldn’t charm us any more, the Connemara hideaway goes and launches a brand new outdoor sauna experience. 

On the banks of the castle’s lake, the new sauna is tucked into a leafy canopy. Stroll to the secluded spot or take the short buggy ride.

Each sauna session lasts for one hour for up to four guests, ensuring a private wellness experience. with towels, slippers, water, and fresh fruit all supplied. 

Enjoy the cold pull bucket and invigorating dips in the lake’s pristine plunge area. €60 per sauna per hour for up to two people.

  • ballynahinch-castle.com

Kandima Maldives.
Kandima Maldives.

Going solo

If you thought the Maldives was only for loved-up couples, resorts like Kandima Maldives are pitching for solo female travellers who crave nature, tranquillity, and relaxation. 

Combining serenity, spa treatments, and sunset cruises with water sports, diving, and glass kayaking, you can get PADI dive certified in just three days, join a turtle quest, or enjoy morning runs along the 3km beach.

Current bookings can enjoy 55% discount on stays between November 1 this year to June 30, 2025.

Iceland.
Iceland.

Deal of the Week

Low-cost airline Play has an excellent sale this week, with kids’ flights to Iceland and North America just €2.

Departing from Dublin, the discounted fare applies on select flights with the no-frills airline from Dublin to Iceland and onwards to New York Stewart, Boston Logan, Baltimore/Washington, John C Munro Hamilton (for Toronto), and Washington Dulles Airport. 

The booking period closes on September 17 and departure period runs from now until December 15.

Eccles Hotel, Glengarriff
Eccles Hotel, Glengarriff

Glengarriff getaway

Slip away to West Cork and enjoy a two-night midweek autumn break in Eccles Hotel. 

Choose from a Bayview or Forest View room in the Glengarriff four-star and receive a complimentary bottle of prosecco and, on one evening, a three-course dinner showcasing homegrown and local produce.

Access for two in the Thermal Spa Garden overlooking the bay is a lovely inclusion, especially after a day’s exploring the beautiful outdoors. €275 per night

Breathe at Bansha Castle
Breathe at Bansha Castle

Yoga retreat

Looking for a little October quality time? Join yoga teacher Shelley Tobin from Breathe Yoga studio at Breathe at Bansha Castle in Tipperary for a private holistic yoga retreat.

A sound bath session with Derek Montgomery, hormone balance talk by Becca Holland, guided walk along the beautiful Swiss Cottage heritage trail, and homemade meals are all included in the price.

The retreat takes place from October 11–13, with a 10% early bird discount available until September 17. Ideal for all abilities.

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