We’re on a permanent quest for the perfect spa treatment, and along the way we have found some pretty awesome contenders but after a highly commended mention for Best Therapist at this year’s Irish Tatler Awards, The g Hotel might just have mastered the secret, as spa manager Suzanne explains…

What makes the perfect spa treatment?

The perfect spa treatment should take you on a journey of relaxation and me-time from start to finish. At ESPA at the g we focus on the needs of our guests, ensuring they feel special and pampered. For your chosen treatment itself; whether you have selected a facial or massage you should feel utterly at ease and tranquil throughout the experience. Overall, your chosen treatment should deliver results and you should feel that it was an experience worth taking time out for and ideally that you want to come back to repeat!

What separates the g from other spas?

Firstly, the level of professionalism amongst our ESPA at the g team who are all incredibly passionate and committed. We all work together to continually improve our level of professionalism throughout the spa and the experience of our guests. Secondly the quality of products used is exceptional - ESPA are world leaders in spa design and products and all of our treatments use completely natural ingredients. Thirdly is the ongoing training we receive from ESPA, which is of a very high standard.

What’s your favourite thing about being a therapist?

The satisfaction when my guest enjoys their treatment is top on my list. My favourite is when a guest remarks that it felt like ‘heaven’! When I can follow up on this great experience and guide them through an aftercare program then I really know I have helped them to achieve long-term benefits.

What’s your favourite thing about the g Hotel & Spa?

The g Hotel & Spa is located in Galway which I love. It is a thriving city that feels like a village and we are the only five star destination spa in the area, which makes me proud to be a part of the team. It was designed by Philip Treacy, the famous milliner who was from a tiny village near to Galway city, which really gives it wow factor and then guests come into ESPA and they forget they are even in a hotel.

What’s your favourite spa treatment?

A massage is always my favourite treatment. Here at ESPA at the g, Chakra Balancing would be my favourite. It is our signature treatment and loved by our guests. It focuses on rebalancing the seven chakras that affect the mind and body given you a deep sense of wellbeing from within. Starting off with skin brushing, body exfoliation and a facial cleanse you will then enjoy a full body massage using individually chosen essential oils and hot stones as well as a soothing head massage. This treatment has previously won ‘Best Body Treatment’ at the Irish Tatler Spa Awards and was the one I gave their secret inspector during this year’s judging process.

What’s your top tip for anyone going on their first spa break?

Spend some time looking at the spa menu to decide which treatment you think you will enjoy and then speak with the team when you book and ask lots of questions as it is important you select what suits you best at that moment in time. Also, remember that a spa treatment is not just about your treatment time with your therapist; it’s about relaxation before and after your actual treatment, so when you come to ESPA at the g, spend some time in the Thermal Suite beforehand which is the perfect start to your spa experience at the g. The Thermal Suite as well.