Review: My day at Aqua Sana Forest Spa in Center Parcs, Longford

Travel writer Deirdre Mullins reviews her trip to the Aqua Sauna Forest Spa at Center Parcs.

There are spa days and Aqua Sauna days, which leave you floating on air, deeply relaxed, and wondering why you don't do this more often.

Tucked away on the edge of Center Parcs in the heart of Longford Forest, Aqua Sana Forest Spa had been on my radar for a while, and with a busy week behind me, I decided it was time to hit pause.

Just 90 minutes from Dublin, my ever-willing companion, Harry, and I embarked on a mission of self-indulgence, a day dedicated to warmth, relaxation, and the art of doing nothing.

Aqua Sauna is a haven of heat and steam, boasting an impressive array of saunas and steam rooms. Wrapped in a fluffy robe, we entered the spa, ready to explore all 21 nature-inspired experiences. While there's a suggested thermal circuit, we opted to wander at our own pace, moving from one soothing heat experience to another like leisurely adventurers on a journey of relaxation.

There is an ice cave, a forest rain walk, a Nordic sauna, and a salt steam room - to name but a few. But it was the lava sauna that was my highlight. Lying back on the warm wooden benches, I closed my eyes and listened to the recorded sounds of the jungle, feeling momentarily transported to Costa Rica. And then Harry started snoring.

Mission accomplished: my busy, over-caffeinated husband had finally relaxed.

One of the biggest draws for me was the outdoor area. The warm outdoor pool and hot tubs were bliss, especially with the contrast of the crisp winter air against the steaming water. And even though it was a Saturday, and the spa was busy, it never felt overcrowded.

There were plenty of relaxation areas, and I never had to wait to access the facilities. Another highlight was the water beds, which were heated, gently rocking, and nestled in a darkened room. The closest thing to being back in the womb was pure, weightless comfort.

When I thought I couldn't be any more relaxed, I joined a sleep class (one of the many wellness sessions available on the daily timetable). Tucked under a blanket in a recliner, I listened as the therapist guided us through sleep hygiene tips, introduced different sleep products, and finally led a mindful sleep meditation. I drifted off, which I'm counting as a sign of success.

I booked the [comfort zone] Himalayan salt back, face, and scalp massage with Molly, which was exactly what my tight shoulders needed. Molly was fantastic and knew exactly where to apply pressure, melting away every last bit of tension. The [comfort zone] products infused with aromatherapy worked their magic, and before I knew it, I was drifting off into yet another nap.

One area that could be improved is the lunch offering at the Vitalé Café Bar. Sitting in my wet clothes and robe, I craved something warm and nourishing, but the hot food options were mostly limited to carb-heavy pasta and paninis.

A few healthier, protein-rich warming dishes would be a welcome addition. On the plus side, there was a wide selection of cocktails, but I opted for the hot chocolate, a real treat - pure indulgence.

Was it worth it?

Absolutely. Aqua Sana Forest Spa Recharging Spa Day starts at €189. This includes a 50-minute treatment, access to the spa and wellbeing sessions, lunch, and a glass of prosecco at Vitalé Café Bar. The Spa's extensive thermal experiences, outdoor pools, and well-thought-out relaxation spaces made it a true escape. I'd go back in a heartbeat, but next time, I'll let Harry sleep through the entire day.

For more information on Aqua Sauna Forest Spa and to book your visit, go to https://www.aquasana.ie

Deirdre Mullins was a guest of Aqua Sauna Forest Spa for purpose of review.

Read more: 20 destination spas to visit around Ireland