The Spa at the Radisson in Little island is truly a haven of pure luxury in the heart of Corks busiest business hubs. East Cork is no stranger to a good hotel, but the Radisson is a multi-award-winning property based in Eastgate. A lively spot there is a coffee dock in the foyer and the bar boasts a great lunch and dinner menu. Due to the location the hotel is always quite busy with conferences and has an array of meeting rooms and corporate offerings. It really wouldn’t be complete however without the leisure centre and the spa facility.
I indulged in some birthday rest and relaxation there this month and must say the facilities are second to none. An Elemis spa for many years has in recent times undergone a full renovation. They offer all the standard beauty treatments, nails waxing etc. but their skin menu is what caught my eye.
I had a hectic weekend ahead and so booked in for an Elemis body scrub and Pro Collagen Facial as well as enjoying a spot of lunch in the bar, and of course a glass of wine. Elemis is the number one luxury British Skincare brand, who combine ingredients sourced from nature to produce scientifically proven skincare. Robes and slippers are provided and there is a relaxation area, hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam room. The relaxation room has a selection of teas and juices for you post treatment.
The lime and ginger salt scrub was an invigorating experience which removed every last bit of tan and dead skin. The treatment itself is done while you are lying down and there are a few different options in terms of scrub. Afterwards there is a shower in the room so you can clean off the scrub with a mitt. There was a selection of lotions for me to apply afterwards, I opted for the Skin Nourishing which has the signature Elemis scent but is uber rich and left my skin soft.
The best bit was the facial. I had just finished up with a terrible dose of a cold so my face my puffy and my skin dull and dry. This facial is aimed at 25-45-year olds whose concerns include lines, wrinkles and dullness. It was explained to me that this premium treatment reduces the number of wrinkles and improves skin firmness. Lifting massage techniques are combined with Elemis products for maximum effect.
I was delighted that this facial includes several different stages and treatments and it was a truly relaxing experience from start to finish so much so, that by the time it was over I was totally feeling refreshed and looking youthful. I could have happily remained on the heated bed for another hour.
The facial begins with all traces of make-up and oils being removed from my face with Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm. Followed by toning and exfoliating with Elemis Gentle Rose Exfoliator. A sequence of steps follows including a Papaya Enzyme Peel which exfoliates using fruit enzymes to leave skin soft, revitalised and radiant. It smelt so incredible I could feel the slightest tingle to let me know that the enzymatic exfoliation was happening. A cooling, thick face mask is applied and, while it’s infusing goodness and moisture into my skin, I’m given a soothing neck and shoulder massage along with a scalp massage. This treatment is proven to reduce the number of wrinkles and improve skin firmness as well as the texture of the skin. Each of the steps was explained to me and I felt relaxed and rejuvenated.
I then hit the relaxation room for some fruit, water and a smoothie. The spa wasn’t crowded or overbooked, and the team allowed plenty of time between clients so that you had time to get ready and move along for your next treatment. The Radisson also has a fully equipped gym which shares the reception area with the spa. They retail Elemis and Australian brand for candles and diffusers Peppermint Grove.
Overall my experience there was restful and luxurious. All the team are friendly and knowledgeable and happy to offer advice in skincare and treatments. I must say the whole afternoon was delightful. They have such a great range of options if you have a group of girls for a hen, Mother’s day or just some quality girly time I would recommend even booking in for an afternoon tea or a few bubbles with your friends.
Article Author: Mary-Jane O Regan
Hi Style Editor