Relaxation at the Radisson Blu

Lucy and I were delighted to be invited along for a break by the Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa here in Sligo. We haven’t had a break this summer so it was great to head along and get away from it all. We were welcomed by Berni who told us all about the hotel, leisure centre and spa. Berni was also explaining that as the hotel is on the Wild Atlantic Way they have teamed up with some local activity providers to offer guests a Wild Atlantic Way experience card. If you are staying at the Radisson Blu in Sligo you can avail of a card that will get you a discount from Lissadell House/Lissadell Adventures, Perfect Day Surfing, Ewings Sea Angling and Boat Charters and Voya Seaweed Bath and Spa. The hotel is in the perfect location, about ten minutes drive from Sligo town (and also on the bus route if you don’t have your own transport), it’s also about a five-minute drive (or bus ride) from Rosses Point.  Rosses Point is a popular seaside resort with beautiful views of Knocknarea to the south and Benbulben to the north. It’s perfect for water sports, there is also a golf course and some friendly pubs and restaurants. The beach has been dual awarded, achieving the International Blue Flag and Green Coast Award status 2015.

Our room was beautiful, a room with a view, on the top floor overlooking the sea and Knocknarea Mountain. We were delighted that there were cakes in our room, I love a bit of cake! There was also a Nespresso machine! Happy Days! We headed off for a walk along the beach and were lucky that we got such a beautiful day. Even though we live in Sligo it’s great to spend time exploring. I ended up at Rosses Point three times during our stay, it really is a special place.

Later that evening we went to the Healthstyles leisure centre and met Lorraine, she was telling us about the various classes they have at the centre. They include kettle bells, circuit training, swimming lessons and more. The classes are available to members and non-members. To find out more you can contact the centre on 071 9192429. After we had a relax in the jacuzzi we got to try the aqua aerobics class. To be honest I expected this to be a cross between synchronised swimming and the little mermaid. How wrong I was!! The very energetic Gillian led the class and our group of around 30 ladies of all ages were put through our paces. I didn’t realise it was possible to work up a sweat in a swimming pool….I was wrong! We ended up having a great workout and it was really enjoyable too!

After all the exercise we’d worked up an appetite so it was time to visit the Classiebawn restaurant. They have recently launched a new menu so we were looking forward to trying it. The food was amazing! So well presented and so tasty. The service was excellent too, we had a lovely leisurely meal. We were both given a delicate dish venison to begin with.  I had tian of smoked chicken with fresh mango and coriander for my starter, Prime of Fermanagh beef fillet served with herb rosti for the main course and Eton mess for my dessert. Lucy had trio of melon, pan seared duck breast and salted caramel panna cotta. We both really enjoyed our dinner, it was fabulous from start to finish. The restaurant has a Value Menu running from Sunday-Friday 6pm-7.30pm where you can get a 2 course meal for €19 or 3 courses for €24, it’s fantastic value.

We waddled back to our room after our dinner and I fell asleep almost immediately. I got up at 6am to do some more exploring, it was lovely walking around Rosses Point before anyone else was up and about. I saw some rabbits and birds while I waited for the sun to rise, although it was too cloudy to get any really good photos it was a lovely way to start the day.

When Lucy woke up we went for breakfast. The hotel has a ‘Super Breakfast Buffet’. You can eat as much as you like and there’s something to suit everyone including all the full Irish breakfast favourites, cold meats, cheeses, fruit and vegetables, cereals, breads and pastries and juices. I ate far too much but it kept me going all day.

After breakfast we got into our robes and slippers that were left for us and went to check out the Sólás Spa. We tried the thermal suite first which consisted of the crystal steam room, herb sauna, luxurious foot soaks, tropical shower and ice fountain. We’d forgotten to wear our swimming costumes so we just tried out the foot soaks and a brief sit in the steam room. Afterwards we went into the relaxation room, for once I didn’t fall asleep! I was too busy checking out the herbal teas and fruit. Lisa was my therapist and carried out a wonderful relaxing back, neck and shoulder massage followed by a taster Elemis facial. I was on a heated bed – which I want! My skin now feels wonderful and I really enjoyed my time in the spa. Every month they have special offers which you can check out here.

So that was our wonderful couple of days at the Radisson Blu Hotel and Spa. It felt like I was away for a weeks holiday without any of the travelling or hassle. There’s a lot to be said for a staycation. Sincere thanks to Berni and all the staff at the hotel, leisure centre and spa for such a lovely time. You can check out the website here