Retreats are designed to ignite change, but all too often feel like a school camp - with bad food, bunk beds and cold showers. Holidays, on the other hand, can be luxurious and relaxing, but don’t offer much in the way of lasting change.
That’s where Spark comes in. Like a holiday, it will give you the opportunity to relax in an incredible environment, make new friends and be entertained by world-class artists. Like a retreat, there will be various events designed to help spark change in your life.
THE THEME
In 2023 we’re taking a deep dive into the theory of Pyrotheology and the ways that it can be integrated into your life. With Wake not happening this year, I will taking this chance to go deep into the roots of pyrotheology and how it can be applied to both individual and communal life.
THE SETTING
Spark takes place in the award-winning Crawfordsburn Inn, which dates back to the reign of Queen Elizabeth I and has given shelter to figures such as Swift, Trollope, Dickens, Dick Turpin and Peter the Great. The Inn also held a special place in the heart of C.S. Lewis who visited often and who spent his honeymoon there with Joy Davidman. Indeed, the Inn is overlooks the forest that reputedly inspired his vision of Narnia. And it is located just 20 minutes from Belfast (winner of World’s Best Region for Tourism in 2017 by Lonely Planet).
THE TREE TOP SPA
This year your exploration of doubt and despair we be enhanced by the addition of a brand new spa overlooking the forest. The spa includes an open-air hydrotherapy pool, hot tubs, sauna, steam room and relaxation area.
THE DATES
Spark kicks off on the afternoon of 15th October, and finishes on 19th October. There also the option of extending your stay either by coming in a day early and/or staying a day later. This gives you the chance to kick back and enjoy the spa, or sign up to one of our additional excursions.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
This is an all-inclusive event. The ticket covers all accommodation, meals, activities and wine receptions (although the hotel bar isn’t included). In terms of the food, you'll enjoy a full Irish breakfast each morning, lunch every afternoon and incredible meal every evening in the award-winning Lewis restaurant.
In addition to this there are a number of bolt ons for people who wish to extend their stay. On 14th there is also the option of adding on a street art tour in Belfast. The advantage of signing up for this is that you can arrive in Belfast, see the street art, then get a lift with us to the hotel (or just meet us at 4pm for the lift). On 20th there is the option of doing a trip to the North Coast, which includes the famous Giant’s Causeway, and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.
THE CONTENT
The five days will be filled with live music, art, workshops, talks, tours, tastings, comedy, coaching, magic and more. One day you might want to engage in a roundtable discussion about Pyrotheology, take a walk in the enchanted forest, or chat with new friends over drinks. The next day you could grab a coffee and jump into a workshop, listen to a musician or just sit by the outdoor fire and take in the breathtaking view. Think of Spark as a luxurious holiday that is carefully crafted to help inspire, challenge, and transform.
WHAT DOES IT COST?
The cost starts at $1750 pp (based on two sharing). Less if three or more share. There is also a limited number of non-resident tickets that exclude bed and breakfast.
WHAT IF I BUY A TICKET AND CAN’T GO?
Because of the cost of booking speakers, artists and accommodation, refunds cannot be given under other circumstances. However you can pass your ticket onto someone else or put it towards a future event.
SHOULD I COME EARLY OR STAY AFTER?
Absolutely! There is so much to do in Ireland that I highly recommend you extend your stay. In fact, this year I am adding some bolt-ons. You can book an extra night before and/or after your stay, do a Graffiti tour of Belfast (14th October) take a trip to the Giant’s Causeway (15th October) or enjoy a day at the Spa (on 14th and/or 15th October).
HOW DO I GET TO THE HOTEL?
The easiest way to get to the hotel is to fly into the George Best City Airport. From there it is just a short taxi ride to the hotel. Uber runs in Belfast and there is also a taxi rank at the airport (which will take a credit card). You might also fly into Belfast’s International Airport. From there you need to get the bus into Belfast, and from there, grab a taxi (you might be able to share with others). Alternatively you can fly into Dublin Airport and grab the bus (either Translink or Aircoach) up to Belfast, and again grab a taxi. I recommend buying the bus tickets in advance to ensure getting onto the bus (if you are late or early, you can still use the ticket)