What's even better than a spring getaway at a romantic Irish castle? A spring getaway at a romantic Irish castle with a brand new spa, that's what. Historic Dromoland Castle in Shannon recently opened its gorgeous spa, which houses six spacious treatment rooms and an outside area with a Hydropool and alfresco seating.

The beautiful retreat offers some delicious-sounding exclusive therapies from luxurious skin brands Voya and Anne Semonin. Some examples? Voya's fabulous Fig Tree treatment starts with a fig body scrub using dried coarse figs mixed with essential oil to fully exfoliate the body. This is followed by a powdered fig and seaweed body wrap, then a full body massage. And while you're being thoroughly pampered, you can sip mint tea and nibble on Dromoland figs.

Meanwhile, Anne Semonin's Gaelic Dreams Collection comprises three treatments, including a facial and full body massage. Our favourite, however, is the Gaelic Escape - which involves lying in a bed of warmed seaweed and marine mineral mud. Then just when it seems impossible to feel any more relaxed, you're treated to a deep-tissue back, neck and shoulder massage.

But here's the best part: Anne Semonin has introduced a Black Velvet Sorbet - made from champagne and Guinness - for all guests indulging in a Gaelic Dreams treatment. Cheers!

And to make sure you don't undo all the good work from their treatments, the hotel's Earl of Thomond restaurant works closely with the spa to create a complementary set of delicious-but-healthy dishes. See? They think of everything!

The historic castle hotel and spa is situated amidst breathtaking scenery, just eight miles from Shannon airport - and close to the gorgeous cities of Limerick and Galway. Double rooms, including breakfast, start from around £220 per night. For more information, go to www.dromoland.ie.