THE long-delayed scheme to convert a dilapidated castle in Co Armagh into a luxury four-star boutique hotel, spa and wellness centre will complete the week after Easter.
Killeavy Castle, nestled in the woodland at the foot of Slieve Gullion, will open unveil its newly refurbished premises at the end of April following a £12 million investment backed by First Trust Bank.
The listed building, derelict for over a decade, was given its new lease of life after being bought at auction for £1.2 million by Armagh-born Australia-domiciled entrepreneur Mick Boyle and his wife Robin in 2013.
And the complex will create 85 part-time and full-time jobs, under the management of new general manager Jason Foody.
Over the last two years 90 contractors - from design to construction and landscaping companies - have been employed to complete extensive renovations with painstaking care, ensuring the 19th century building (it was constructed in 1836) has been fully restored to its former glory.
Mr Boyle emigrated to Australia as a child in the late 1960s with his parents Michael and Pauline Boyle, who come from south Armagh.
He and his wife, who also established and own the successful Australian construction company Abergeldie Complex Infrastructure, currently live in Sydney.
Killeavy Castle Estate owner Mick Boyle says the renovations will put a modern twist on the traditional charm of the historic property.
He said: “Robin and I wanted to change the way people think about South Armagh. We want to create a destination venue where tourists and local people can come to and enjoy great dining, access the beautiful mountain walks and feel connected with their natural surroundings. We want Killeavy Castle to be a world class destination where people can escape the busyness of modern life and get closer to what’s important.
“What makes us unique is our location and heritage. We are situated at the foot of the mighty Slieve Gullion with unrivalled natural beauty and incredible views. Our heritage and provenance are at the heart of everything we do.
"Our food will be sourced locally or grown in our walled garden, our 85 staff are by majority live locally, and we have incorporated the beauty of the countryside into the design and interior of the castle and hotel.”
Killeavy Castle now has four luxury bedrooms, a formal dining room, a cellar bar and private function facilities, all with period features which have undergone significant restoration. Behind the castle is a permanent marquee for weddings, retreats and corporate events.
Steeped in rich history, an underground tunnel once used as a servant’s passageway now links the castle to the newly built 45-bed boutique spa hotel, a grade two listed building which was formerly a coach house, mill and farm buildings.
Gary Flynn, business acquisition manager at First Trust Bank, said: “We're proud to have played a part in the restoration of Killeavy Castle. The exceptional attention to detail at every step of the project has resulted in the creation of one of the most stunning venues on the island of Ireland.
“Mick’s passion for South Armagh is infectious. It’s clear he is committed to creating hospitality excellence and showcasing the beauty and charm of the local area on a global stage. The castle itself still has so many of its quirky period features, sympathetically restored to its former glory.”
General manager Jason Foody said: “There's been huge demand for our unique facilities already, with 50 events booked in, from fairy-tale wedding ceremonies to glamorous receptions. We have had enquiries from all over the world including the US and Asia, with people excited to visit the estate and take in the breath-taking scenery.”
