Article and photos by Laura Scheiber
Espa at The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt
During a trip to Ireland I had the pleasure of spending a morning at Espa at The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt in the lush County Wicklow countryside. Split between two floors, the 33,000 square-foot spa had a fitness room, 20-meter indoor pool, hot-pool, hamman (Turkish steam room), Serenity Room, thermal suites, and 22 treatment rooms. The rustic country setting added to the overall peaceful atmosphere of my visit.
Lounge chairs in the pool area at Espa
I started my morning with a facial from Michelle, one of the sixteen therapists on the premises. She used the Espa house brand of facial products and the treatment included two cleansings, exfoliation, massage, pink mud hair application and mineral masque treatment. Afterward I swam in the elegant pool inlaid with Swarovski crystals, sat in a hot-pool while listening to the soothing sound of a waterfall cascading down a sheet of black slate, and relaxed in a chic eucalyptus-scented hammam. By the time I left the spa, my muscles felt as loose as a wet noodle.
Lobby of Espa at The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt
Although the treatment I received was professional and of a high quality, as expected of a spa at The Ritz Carlton, it was the layout and decor of Espa (Powerscourt Estate, Enniskerry, County Wicklow Ireland, +353 1 274 9710, http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Powerscourt/Spa/Default.htm, powerscourtspa@ritzcarlton.com) that set it apart from other spas I have visited. A great deal of thought had gone into creating the perfect balance of modern minimalist design and nature. The elegant interior of low-lit stone, slate and wood, coupled with views of the surrounding mountains made this a unique and serene haven well worth the visit.
