Celebrating a birthday in style, luxury and relaxation

My last post mentioned that I was enjoying a stay at a lovely hotel with my husband for my birthday (which is today, 21 August). We stayed at Galgorm Manor and Spa.

It was originally a traditional country house but has been sympathetically extended and has managed to maintain it’s charm as well as combining it with trendy chic. Here are a few photos from the old and the new.

Last time we were there (for my 40th birthday) the spa was still being built. This time we were able to enjoy it fully.

I had an Indian head massage and facial. Then went on to enjoy the hot tub, infinity pool, heated loungers, and a variety of sauna and steam rooms – definitely a great way to relax and be pampered.

Our evening meal was in the River Room restauant. Lovely view of the river and delicious food with attentive service. There were several “amuse bouch” served before the excellent meal – my choice was pea soup with pancetta, roasted salmon and finally chocolate praline mousse.

In the morning there was MORE food, with breakfast served in Gillies Bar and we had time to take a few photos and use the spa before reluctantly it was time to leave.

As we were child-free until 6pm we headed for some birthday retail therapy in Belfast. I bought several items in Gap as well as some new makeup from Benefit and Bobbi Brown. We had a late light lunch in my fave shop Avoca and purchased something there for the cottage (which I will share in another post)

So I am feeling relaxed, pampered, spoilt and all shopped out! A perfect way to be in the eve of your 42nd birthday.

So what would be your perfect treat for your birthday? I would love to know.

I am sharing this post today on 2 lovely and inspiring blogs : Hooked on Houses and The Inspired Room. In case there was ANY doubt, this week I am hooked on and inspired by pampering and a little bit of luxury, Big thanks to my parents, as without them to offer to take care of our 3 kids, this would not have been possible.

(Thanks Mum and Dad – I know you read this!)
— Post From My iPhone