Welcome to the latest edition of our exclusive ezine. In this issue, we're excited to share some news, stories and updates from Inchdyoney Island Lodge & Spa.

We proudly celebrated a remarkable milestone in January when we were crowned as Ireland's Best Four-Star Resort at the Gold Medal Awards. Having been named Ireland's Leading Resort at the World Travel Awards in 2023, this latest accolade kicked off 2024 in style for us.

We invite you to dive into the world of Seawater Therapy with us as we explore its origins, benefits, and why it's a cornerstone of the wellness experiences at Inchydoney. Learn how this ancient practice can rejuvenate the body, calm the mind, and reconnect you with the natural world in ways you've never imagined. In conjuction with these amazing benefits, we are pleased to offer complimentary Yoga classes to all guests. With the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop, our Yoga classes are a tonic for the mind and body.

Join us on our sustainability journey, a core commitment at Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa. We're passionate about preserving the beauty of our natural surroundings and fostering a positive impact on the environment. Discover the steps we're taking towards a greener future.

We're thrilled to offer a sneak peek at the special offers we've curated for the upcoming season. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or a family adventure, our exclusive packages are designed to provide unforgettable experiences tailored to every desire.

We are thrilled to announce that Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa has been voted Ireland's Best Four Star Resort at the Gold Medal Awards 2024, as well as Ireland's Leading Resort at the World Travel Awards. These prestigious accolades are a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence and the exceptional service we provide to each and every guest. Nestled on the serene shores of Inchydoney Island, our resort has been recognized for its luxurious accommodations, world-class spa facilities, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our dedicated team, whose passion and hard work have made this achievement possible, and to our cherished guests for their continued loyal support and recognition. We look forward to welcoming you to Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa, where exquisite beauty, authentic experiences and award wining hospitality await.

The use of seawater for therapeutic purposes dates back to ancient times. Civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans recognized the healing properties of seawater and incorporated it into their medical treatments. The Greeks bathed in seawater to enhance physical and mental health, while the Romans built luxurious bathhouses near the sea, where people could soak in the benefits of the ocean.

The modern concept of thalassotherapy was revitalized in the 19th century in France, when the first thalassotherapy centre was established in Brittany. The founder, Dr. Joseph La Bonnardière, coined the term thalassotherapy and sparked a resurgence in seawater therapy that spread across Europe and beyond. We were proud to introduce the concept of Thalassotherapy and its benefits to Ireland in 1998 when the hotel first opened. Today, we are pleased to combine the unique benefits of Seawater Therapy with our luxurious accommodation, local dining and a breathtaking location in West Cork to create a most unique getaway.

Seawater therapy offers a plethora of benefits for both physical and mental health, thanks to the rich composition of seawater, which closely resembles human plasma. Some of the key benefits:

Enhances Physical Health

Detoxification: Seawater is rich in minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which help detoxify the body and promote the elimination of toxins.

Improves Circulation: The immersion in warm seawater helps improve circulation by restoring essential minerals depleted by stress, a poor diet, and environmental pollutants.

Pain Relief: The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of seawater can help alleviate pain and stiffness associated with conditions like arthritis, rheumatism, and back pain.

Skin Health: Seawater's mineral content can help improve skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne, promoting healthier, more resilient skin.

Boosts Mental Well-being

Reduces Stress: The calming effect of seawater, combined with the rhythmic sound of the waves, can significantly reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.

Improves Sleep: The magnesium in seawater has a sedative effect, helping to improve the quality of sleep by relaxing the muscles and calming the nervous system.

Elevates Mood: Seawater therapy can increase the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with happiness and well-being, thus improving mood and combating depression.

Promotes Overall Wellness

Enhances Immunity: The minerals in seawater can strengthen the immune system, making the body more resilient to infections and diseases.

Boosts Energy Levels: The invigorating properties of cold seawater can help increase energy levels and improve overall vitality.

Connects with Nature: Seawater therapy provides an opportunity to connect with the natural world, offering a profound sense of peace and rejuvenation that is essential for holistic well-being.

Seawater therapy is a testament to the ocean's boundless capacity to heal and nurture. Whether through a soak in the sea, a mud wrap, or a seaweed bath, this ancient practice offers a natural and effective way to rejuvenate the body, calm the mind, and restore the spirit. As we continue to explore and embrace the myriad benefits of seawater therapy, we not only enhance our own well-being but also deepen our connection with the natural world, celebrating the timeless bond between humanity and the sea.

Guests to the resort can enjoy unlimited complimentary access to our heated Seawater Therapy Pool. For those wishing to experience further benefits of Seawater and Seaweeds, we have an extensive range of treatments available in the Island Spa. This Spring, our Taste of the Sea Offer is a wonderful way to experience the benefits of Seawater Treatments during a 2 night break with us, which includes a Yoga Class and Dinner one evening.

Most recently,  we celebrated 25 years in business by partnering with locally based  Crithir Creative Hub. As part of a three year commitment by us, Crithir will plant approximately 3,000 native Irish Trees on their land, in a bid to support local biodiversity.

With the help of the Tree Council of Ireland, we have committed to supporting another West Cork organisation to whom both sustainability and the arts are central to their purpose.  Crithir, located in Drinagh, is a West Cork based creative hub, with a focus on wellbeing and residency programmes immersed in nature. They are based on a small farm holding and aspire to help guests learn and grow, focusing on creativity, wellbeing, farm to fork food, nature and community. 

Des O’Dowd, owner of Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa said, “We wanted to celebrate West Cork on behalf of our team and our guests to mark 25 years of being immersed in this beautiful community. When we met Tim, we felt immediately that there are synergies between us. We have always been delighted to support the unique creative community that surrounds us, and we’re very interested in what Crithir is trying to achieve. Our commitment to this project feels like the right thing to do for us and we’re happy, on behalf of our guests, to plant these native Irish trees and watch this woodland develop over the coming years with Tim and his team as they work to support local wildlife habitats and restore local ecosystems.”

We are committed to investing in environmentally conscious choices and have an extensive programme of ways in which we hope to teach our teams, learn more and invest in a more sustainable future for our area and the generations coming behind us. A number of years ago, we converted to Calor BioLPG, a 100% renewable energy source and building on from there, in early 2024, we installed a CHP Unit (Combined Heat & Power) at a cost of €200,000. This unit burns LPG to produce electricity for the hotel as well as heating the sea water in the Seawater Therapy Pool. It is estimated that this system saves 250,000 KW hours as well as 80 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Our internal Green Team work to help us innovate and improve the ways we can recycle, reuse and manage all waste. We take our position as caretaker and guardian of our immediate environment very seriously and strive to make decisions based on the protection of our local area as well as enhancing and protecting the natural beauty of Inchydoney and West Cork

We are delighted to offer outdoor yoga sessions to all residents of the hotel. Nestled in the serene embrace of nature, these classes are held in the tranquil setting of our outdoor amphitheatre overlooking Inchydoney Beach, providing an idyllic backdrop that enhances the yoga experience. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the art of yoga, our expert instructor Sharon, will guide you through a series of poses and breathing techniques designed to improve flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. This complimentary amenity is part of our commitment to promoting holistic well-being and ensuring that every guest has the opportunity to connect with nature, engage in healthful practices, and leave feeling revitalized and at peace. We hope you will join us to embrace the beauty of the outdoors and the transformative power of yoga under the open sky.

With Mother's Day, St Patrick's Day and Easter all fast approaching, we are delighted to have a number of bespoke Spring Break packages available to celebrate each occasion. For Mother's Day, we have a gorgeous one night break that includes dinner, a cocktail in the Lounge and a Yoga class by the sea. Whether you decide to escape with your Mum, or Wife or group of friends, this 24 hour getaway is just perfect to recharge the battery. 

For those with a little more time, we are pleased to recommend our Linger Longer Offer. This includes 3 nights accommodation, breakfast each day, dinner one evening and lunch one day, as well as Yoga Classes and access to the Seawater Therapy Pool and Relaxation Areas.

If you are tight on time, but need a 24 hour escape, our Come Dine Offer is just perfect for you. Overnight accommodation, combined with Dinner in the Gulfstream Restaurant and access to the heated Seawater Therapy Pool and Relaxation Areas, as well as a Yoga Class on the beach.