Christmas is undoubtedly one of the most romantic times of the year – the twinkling lights, the falling snow, and the magical moments spent in front of the fire with a glass of wine and a festive film.
With the feeling of love running through the air, it’s no surprise that Christmas is one of the most popular times of the year for couples to get engaged. Next to the presents that adorn the tree, under the mistletoe, or during a trip to your local Christmas market – the magic of the season offers endless possibilities to plan a dreamy and romantic proposal.
If you’re getting engaged this Christmas, the chances are that the preparations for your big day will begin in the new year – and one important aspect of your wedding plans is of course the hen or stag party that will act as the perfect send-off before becoming a married couple.
Whether you’re looking for a wild night out to say goodbye with a bang to your single life, a relaxed and pampered spa retreat, or a sophisticated dinner and drinks with your friends, your hen or stag will be a party to remember.
Located only 10 minutes from Belfast International Airport and a 2-hour drive from Dublin City Centre, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat is the island of Ireland’s most talked about new stag and hen destination.
Named in the Irish Independent’s ‘FAB 50’ Top Stays in Ireland 2021, The Gloss Magazine’s ‘Best Places to Stay in 2021’, and recently as the AA Hospitality Awards’ Hotel of the Year for Northern Ireland, The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat comes with all the luxuries you would expect from Galgorm Collection – Northern Ireland’s premier group of unique hotels, bars and restaurants – with a few quirks along the way to make your hen or stag an extra special celebration.
Channel Ibizan beach vibes for your final fling
Home to Ireland’s only heated lakeside pebble beach and featuring a Roman bath complete with swim up seating, at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat you can experience those iconic Balearic vibes for your hen or stag – without the jetlag! Feel the warmth flow through as you walk on the pebbled beach area or relax with your favourite tipple whilst taking in the stunning lake views.
The Relaxation Burrow Outdoor Spa exudes a mix of sophisticated luxury and Bohemian glam, boasting an array of luxurious facilities for that ‘boujee’ VIP spa experience for your send-off into married life.
Under the lights of the Rabbit’s disco ball, relax in the warm waters of the Roman bath before you retreat to the comfort of a relaxing lakeside cabana to sip on your favourite tipple, whilst chilling out to party tunes as the sun sets and the outdoor spa lights up the night.
Relax before the big day with the ultimate pamper session
Gather up your bridal party to ease away the tensions of wedding planning as you take a dip in one of The Rabbit’s toasty outdoor hot tubs. Take in the views of The Rabbit’s lakeside vistas, for a moment of me-time that will leave you feeling rejuvenated ahead of the big day.
Detoxify your body and mind in the Aroma Steam Room which uses a range of relaxing and rejuvenating scents mixed into the steamy air to aid relaxation and calm both body and mind, work up a sweat in the traditional Swedish sauna, or surround yourself in the detoxifying and purifying effects of The Rabbit’s unique halotherapy Salt Chamber.
New to the Rabbit’s Relaxation Burrow this season is its bespoke menu of spa treatments that have been carefully curated to provide the perfect pre-wedding pampering. Whether an energising and warming cinnamon balm massage, an IMAGE personalised facial, or Herbal Green Tea bodywork, the spa treatments at the Relaxation Burrow will give you the perfect wedding glow ahead of the big day.
Get your gladrags on for dinner and drinks with your hens or stags
For the gourmet hens and stags, you can get your foodie fix in The Rabbit Restaurant, which offers an exciting and seasonally-led menu with a warm welcome, all brought together in a beautiful space befitting your much-anticipated hen or stag celebrations. Like all the good things in life, food is best served around the table with friends and The Rabbit Restaurant has a menu to please a crowd – appetisers to pique your interest, pizzas for a slice of comfort, and dishes inspired by an Italian-American influence.
In this stylish space boasting a chic interior, bespoke lighting and unique décor, you can enjoy an unforgettable dining experience and raise a glass to your pending nuptials with your nearest and dearest thanks to The Rabbit’s creative drinks and quirky cocktails including its iconic ‘Jessica Rabbit.’
And what better way to round off your final fling before the ring, than to don your dancing shoes for a boogie with your besties. Live entertainment in Hunter’s Bar provides the perfect vibe for dancing the night away.
Go all out for your last hurrah with a private pool party
Treat yourself and your hens or stags to the ultimate VIP experience at Ireland’s most ‘Instagrammable’ spa, with an exclusive pool party arranged just for you that will have you all feeling like the gods and goddesses you are.
Think banging tunes, champagne and cocktails, under a spectrum of coloured lights from the iconic 2-metre mirror disco ball suspended above the open air pool – perfect for those gram-worthy snaps that will make you and your closest mates the envy of all your followers.
Your pals will gather together for a sumptuous two-course meal in in The Lounge before you head to the Relaxation Burrow’s comfy changing areas, complete with luxury robes, and everything you could need to get ready for your party in style – including GHDs and Dyson hair accessories.
As you sink into the rich waters of the Rabbit’s Roman Baths with a cocktail in hand, a private DJ hits the decks so that you can dance the night away. When the DJ comes to an end, your party doesn’t have to – make your way back to The Lounge and continue the pre-wedding festivities!
The Relaxation Burrow is available for private hire every Saturday night, priced at €115 per person based on a minimum group of 50.
Retreat to a room with all the creature comforts fit for a bride or groom to-be
For the full hen or stag experience, you can carry on the celebrations with a hearty next-day breakfast together with your crew. No need to worry about heading home after the party – you can enjoy a sip and a dip before retiring for a kip, all at The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat.
The Rabbit is home to four room types – the cosy ‘Snug’ rooms, the spacious ‘Attic’ rooms, and the perfectly formed ‘Comfy’ rooms, which as an extra bit of luxury for your hen or stag celebrations can come with an outdoor courtyard and bath for an unforgettable private bathing experience.
The unique bedrooms and seriously comfortable beds at The Rabbit make it the perfect home away from home – and with a range of added extras including Dyson Hairdryer and Nespresso Machine for your morning pick-me-up, you’ll have everything you could possibly need to get you ready for every stage of your hen or stag. (Overnight stays from €199 for 2 people sharing).
For a hen or stag less ordinary, The Rabbit is the place to be.
Love at The Loft. An Iconic Wedding Venue.
After your hen or stag, why not check out The Loft, The Rabbit’s iconic wedding venue. In this statement setting, impactful and stylish décor meets ethereal charm, with its large marble dining tables decorated with foliage, candles and candelabras.
High-vaulted ceilings are decorated with twinkling feature chandeliers that are entwined with celebratory planting to bring the outdoors in, while the top table is centre stage in front of a grand fireplace that adds to a truly lyrical atmosphere.
The Loft’s elegant staircase that sits proudly beneath a sparkling chandelier and beside a beautiful, dramatic bar, adds a touch of opulence combined with elegant and effortless style.
Wedding packages at The Loft, including arrival tea, coffee and sweet treats, three course feasting banquet, and half a bottle of wine per guest, start at €13,500.
For more information or to book online, visit www.rabbithotel.com, email events@rabbithotel.com or call 048 9443 2984.
