Near Aughrim, Macreddin Village, Ireland | (888) 240-0568
Charming country house situated in extensive picturesque grounds
Set in self-contained village resort with wealth of dining options
Eco-friendly ethos with emphasis on organic produce and recycling
Adult-only full-service spa with indoor/outdoor pool and range of treatments
All rooms include bathtubs and views over surrounding countryside
Plenty of country trails that can be explored on foot, horseback, or by bike
Rooms can suffer from internal noise
Self-contained village resort may feel a little contrived
The 86-room BrookLodge and Wells Spa is a destination hotel in the truest sense, being set in a self-contained village resort offering everything guests might want during their stay. There's a real emphasis on green living, and the property offers organic and largely locally-grown produce as part of the dining experience. The spa is impressive and extensive, though not child-friendly, while rooms are surprisingly well-equipped with modern technology. You won't find anything like this in the area, and that's the point, offering visitors an all-encompassing experience of high-end country living.
Scene
Ivy-clad Irish country house surrounded by bucolic charm
The BrookLodge and Wells Spa is housed in a charming ivy-clad country house set in pretty gardens and beautiful rustic surrounds with babbling streams, ancient stone bridges, and lush rolling hills. Stepping inside, the lobby feels more home than hotel, with comfortable sofas, flagstone flooring, and a friendly reception from Oscar the resident Golden Retriever. Past shelves of homemade produce and traditional furnishings, the homey vibe continues up the twin staircases to corridors, which are bright and well maintained. Clientele tend towards couples looking for a romantic country break and foodies keen to explore the culinary smorgasbord on offer.
Location
Set in the picturesque Wicklow Hills in the southeast of Ireland
BrookLodge and Wells Spa is set in the self-contained 'resort' of Macreddin Village in the Wicklow Hills, about 40 miles south of Dublin. Wicklow, dubbed the Garden of Ireland, is nestled between Brown Mountain and Cushbawn Mountain in the country's picturesque southeast. The drive is about an hour and a half from the nation's capital, though trains are also available to Rathdrum, the nearest station a 15-minute drive away. Trains also go from Rosslare Harbor so connections can be made from the ferry from Wales.
Rooms
Well-equipped rooms with pretty countryside views
The hotel's 86 rooms are decorated in either traditional homey or smart modern style with matching furnishings. All rooms include flat-screen TVs, stereo systems, and free Wi-Fi, and have lovely views over the surrounding countryside. Bathrooms are equipped with deep tubs and provide luxury toiletries, hair dryers, and bathrobes.
Features
Village resort offering wealth of eco-friendly dining
The Wells Spa is an adult-only 'destination spa' offering an impressive range of facilities including floatation rooms, steam rooms, and outdoor hot tub overlooking the grounds. Most impressive is the indoor to outdoor swimming pool lined with mosaic and garden views. The Macreddin Village is part of the resort and includes a wide range of eating and drinking options with an emphasis on organic and wild produce. The surroundings offer some great trails which can be enjoyed on foot, on horseback, or by bike. Sporting opportunities come in the form of a nearby 18-hole golf course and a snooker table can also be found on-site.