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.

To get an idea of what to expect, it is helpful to consider the distinction Simone Weil made between Will and Attention. The Will is involved with doing. When we Will something, we actively attempt to move from one place to another, to accomplish a goal. The world of self-help is the world of Will. In contrast, Weil writes of Attention as a practice involving profound stillness and intense self-observation. This idea aligns with psychoanalysis, where the individual directs an intense beam of attention towards their life in an endeavour to encounter their unknown face.

This practice of self-discovery, when cradled in an experience of radical acceptance, is profoundly transformative in ways that cannot be predicted in advance. It is this radical practice that Spark invites you into.

The content

The five days are filled with live music, art, workshops, talks, and more. One day, you might want to engage in a roundtable discussion, 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 simply relax in the outdoor heated pool and take in the breathtaking view. There is plenty to do, either with people, or alone.

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).