Previous retreat
The Spa
The rooms
There are four main room types to choose from. We have the Petite and Carriage, which are ideal for single traveler’s and couples. Then we have the Highway which are great for friends sharing (they have a pullout sofa bed). In addition to this, there are a few premium suits and the Lewis Cottage. We also have a family room, which can accommodate four.
13th - 17th October
For over a decade, I have led a retreat in a magical location that holds special significance for C.S. Lewis. Staying at the hotel during his youth, this area of outstanding natural beauty became the landscape that influenced his vision of Narnia. As an adult, he returned often to The Old Inn to reflect, write, and speak with friends. Indeed, in 1958, he honeymooned here with the love of his life, Joy Davidman, shortly before her passing.
Dating back to the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, The Old Inn has given shelter to figures such as Jonathan Swift, Anthony Trollope, Charles Dickens, Dick Turpin, and Peter the Great. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful hotels in Ireland—with its award-winning restaurant and stunning outdoor spa that overlooks the forest—it has proven to be the perfect location for those seeking time to contemplate their lives.
The content
This year Spark will create a more embodied, reflective and relaxed space to contrast with my Wake festival. To faciliate that, there will be four main elements to the retreat:
I will be bringing in leading practitioners to create space for group psychoanalysis, decentering practices and art therapy
I’ll be teaching, alongside world-renowned colleagues, how to identify, understand and enjoy your symptoms
I’ll be building in a stream that will provide training for pastors who wish to integrate insights from pyrotheology into their congregations
There will be music and other entertainment that embodies the core principles of Pyrotheology
What’s included?
This is an all-inclusive event. Your ticket covers all accommodation, meals, activities, and receptions. You'll enjoy breakfast each morning, lunch every afternoon, and an incredible three-course meal each evening, all in the award-winning restaurant.
Tree Top Spa
The outdoor spa includes an open-air hydrotherapy pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room, and relaxation area.
dates
Spark kicks off at 1 pm on Monday, 13th October, and finishes around 12 pm on Friday, 17th October.
What does it cost?
The cost starts at $1,750 per person (based on two sharing). There are also a limited number of non-resident tickets that exclude bed and breakfast. If you want to attend with a group of four or more, reach out for an additional discount.
What if i buy a ticket and can’t go?
Because of the cost of booking speakers, artists, and accommodation, refunds cannot be given 30 days after purchase. However, you can pass your ticket on to 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 extending your stay. I can help you think about where to go and what to book.
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).