The news that the European Central Bank has cut interest rates for the sixth time in the past 12 months is a positive development for Irish consumers and businesses.

The post ECB cut: Good news for borrowers but will there be more? appeared first on IrelandPage.com.

As of March 2025, the Irish property market continues to evolve, influenced by a combination of economic growth, demographic shifts, and persistent supply constraints. Here’s an overview of the current trends and projections shaping the market this year.

Economic Context

Ireland’s economy is on a rebound, with a projected growth rate of 4.0% in 2025, following a contraction in previous years. This resurgence is supported by a robust labor market, low inflation, and favorable external conditions. 

globalpropertyguide.com

 Unemployment remains low, and real wage growth is contributing to increased consumer confidence, factors that traditionally bolster the property market.

Property Price Trends

In 2024, the Irish housing market experienced significant price increases, with some regions witnessing double-digit growth. For instance, counties like Leitrim and Longford saw notable hikes, driven by high demand and limited supply. 

thetimes.co.uk

 The average home price nationwide reached just over €330,000.

Looking ahead, forecasts for 2025 suggest a continuation of this upward trend, albeit at a moderated pace. DNG’s residential market review anticipates house prices could rise by as much as 8% in 2025, following strong growth in the previous year. 

newstalk.com

 Similarly, property experts predict average price growth in the region of 5% for the residential market in 2025. 

irishtimes.com These projections indicate sustained, though more tempered, appreciation in property values.

Supply and Demand Dynamics

A critical factor influencing the property market is the persistent imbalance between supply and demand. Despite increased construction activity, the availability of new and second-hand homes remains insufficient to meet the growing demand. This shortfall is exacerbated by population growth, high employment rates, and the continued prevalence of remote work, which has expanded housing demand beyond urban centers. 

thetimes.co.uk

The western regions of Ireland, in particular, have experienced dramatic price surges due to historically low supply and a lack of new home construction. Counties such as Clare, Donegal, Galway, Limerick, Mayo, Roscommon, and Sligo have seen annual price increases averaging 16%, double the rate of commuter counties at 7.5%. 

thesun.ie

Government Initiatives and Policy Implications

To address the housing crisis, various policy recommendations have been proposed. These include default planning permissions for compliant applications and reclaiming areas like Dublin Bay to increase the city’s footprint and population capacity. Additionally, tax incentives for larger families and reallocating resources to young families have been suggested to alleviate housing pressures. Improving construction productivity through medium-rise and modular-build dwellings is also under consideration. 

thetimes.co.uk

Interest Rates and Mortgage Market

The interest rate environment remains a crucial determinant of housing affordability and buyer behavior. While higher borrowing costs may deter some prospective buyers or reduce their purchasing power, the strong economic fundamentals are expected to sustain demand. First-time buyer activity is anticipated to be front-loaded in 2025, as these buyers rush to beat the end of stamp duty concessions in March. 

savills.ie

Conclusion

In summary, the Irish property market in 2025 is characterized by sustained demand, moderated price growth, and ongoing supply challenges. Economic resilience and demographic trends continue to drive the market, while policy interventions and interest rate fluctuations will play pivotal roles in shaping its trajectory. Stakeholders should remain attentive to these dynamics to navigate the evolving landscape effectively.

Recent Developments in the Irish Property Market

thetimes.co.uk

Irish house values 2025: slower growth expected, but supply woes persist

49 days ago

thesun.ieHome prices in 7 counties soar by €10k in year as buyers battle over lowest supply on record as housing crisis continues68 days agothetimes.co.ukReclaim Dublin Bay and allow smaller dwellings to fix housing crisis7 days ago

The post How the Irish property market is going to develop in 2025 appeared first on IrelandPage.com.

Ireland boasts a wealth of luxurious health spas, each offering unique experiences to rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Here are 15 of the finest health spas across the country:

The Spa at Adare Manor
Located in County Limerick, this spa offers customized facial and body treatments featuring 111SPA/CLINIC products, providing a unique luxury experience in a tranquil setting.

adaremanor.com

The Spa at Ashford Castle
Set within a historic castle in County Mayo, this spa combines opulent settings with a range of treatments from renowned brands like B Africa, Elemis, Natura Bissé, OPI, and Voya.

goodspaguide.co.uk

The Well by The Sea at Cliff House Hotel
Overlooking Ardmore Bay in County Waterford, this boutique hotel spa utilizes 100% natural products, including seaweed and Irish peat, offering treatments with stunning sea views.

goodspaguide.co.uk

Fota Island Spa
Situated on a private island in County Cork, this spa focuses on energy restoration and holistic relaxation, offering treatments ranging from Voya scrubs to BASQ NYC maternity treatments.

goodspaguide.co.uk

The Spa at Castlemartyr Resort
Nestled in County Cork, this spa offers panoramic views of the resort’s 220 acres and features treatments from Germaine De Cappuccini, along with facilities like a 20-meter pool and fitness center.

goodspaguide.co.uk

Chill Spa at The Ice House
Located in County Mayo, this spa offers unique outdoor bathing rituals overlooking the river, with treatments using VOYA and Yon-Ka products, complemented by facilities like outdoor hot tubs.

goodspaguide.co.uk

Galgorm Resort & Spa
Just 30 minutes from Belfast in County Antrim, this spa boasts over 25 facilities, including hot tubs, hydropools, saunas, and a riverside setting, offering a comprehensive relaxation experience.

goodspaguide.co.uk

ESPA at The Europe Hotel
Situated in County Kerry, this five-star hotel offers an outdoor pool overlooking the lake, a comprehensive thermal suite, vitality pool, and treatments by ESPA, all set against the backdrop of Killarney National Park.

goodspaguide.co.uk

The Spa at Farnham Estate
Set within 1,300 acres of countryside in County Cavan, this spa offers an indoor/outdoor infinity pool, relaxation areas, a mint-infused thermal suite, and treatments from ESPA, providing a nature-centric retreat.

goodspaguide.co.uk

Aqua Sana Longford Forest
Located in County Longford, this spa offers 21 experiences over four zones, including an outdoor pool, various thermal experiences, and relaxation areas, making it a comprehensive wellness destination.

goodspaguide.co.uk

Muckross Park Spa
Situated in County Kerry, this Gothic-inspired spa offers an indoor pool, whirlpools, outdoor hot tub, and treatments from The Organic Pharmacy, providing a unique blend of elegance and relaxation.

goodspaguide.co.uk

The Thai Spa at Lough Erne Resort
Located in County Fermanagh, this spa offers Asian-inspired therapies, including traditional Thai massages, along with facilities like a Crystal Aroma Steam Room and Light Therapy Sauna.

goodspaguide.co.uk

Killashee Spa at Killashee Hotel
A short distance from Dublin in County Kildare, this spa features a unique hydrotherapy suite, spacious treatment rooms using Elemis products, and attentive staff, making it ideal for various getaways.

irishcentral.com

The Spa at The Heritage Killenard
Located in County Laois, this hotel spa boasts an impressive thermal suite, high levels of customer service, and a relaxing atmosphere, with a treatment menu catering to all budgets.

irishcentral.com

Powerscourt Springs Health Farm
Situated in County Wicklow, this adult-only wellness hotel offers massage therapies, dry floatation, forest bathing, hiking, and more, providing a holistic approach to relaxation and wellness.

powerscourtsprings.ie

Each of these spas offers a unique experience, combining luxurious treatments with Ireland’s stunning natural landscapes, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating retreat.

Sources

The post 15 of the finest health spas across the country appeared first on IrelandPage.com.

Ireland’s vibrant arts and culture scene continues to flourish in 2025, offering visitors and locals alike an array of immersive experiences. From world-class festivals to historic cultural landmarks and contemporary art exhibitions, Ireland is a haven for creativity and heritage. Here are the best arts and culture experiences to explore across the country this year.

1. Galway International Arts Festival (July 15-28, 2025)

Galway remains the beating heart of Ireland’s arts scene, and its annual Galway International Arts Festival is a must-visit. Expect an eclectic mix of theatre, visual arts, music, and street performances. This year, the festival features internationally renowned artists, large-scale installations, and thought-provoking talks from leading creatives.

2. Dublin Theatre Festival (September 26 – October 13, 2025)

For theatre lovers, the Dublin Theatre Festival is the pinnacle of dramatic excellence. Showcasing new Irish plays, international productions, and innovative performances, it continues to push artistic boundaries. Venues like the Abbey Theatre and the Gate Theatre will host a variety of shows ranging from avant-garde experimental pieces to classic Irish storytelling.

3. Cork Midsummer Festival (June 14-30, 2025)

The Cork Midsummer Festival transforms the city into an open-air cultural playground with performances spanning theatre, dance, music, and visual arts. This year’s highlights include site-specific performances in unique locations across Cork, as well as international collaborations that bring fresh artistic perspectives to the city.

4. The Cliffs of Moher and Traditional Irish Music in Doolin

For a cultural experience steeped in tradition, visit Doolin, the home of Irish traditional music. After exploring the stunning Cliffs of Moher, immerse yourself in an evening of live music at Gus O’Connor’s Pub, where local musicians gather for authentic and impromptu sessions.

5. IMMA (Irish Museum of Modern Art), Dublin

Art lovers will find inspiration at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) in Dublin. In 2025, IMMA hosts groundbreaking exhibitions from leading contemporary artists, featuring installations, digital art, and new media pieces that challenge perspectives and push artistic boundaries.

6. Belfast International Arts Festival (October 10-27, 2025)

Belfast’s rich artistic culture is on full display at the Belfast International Arts Festival. With a mix of opera, dance, literature, and visual arts, this festival embraces the best of local and international talent. This year, expect large-scale public installations and politically charged theatre pieces reflecting contemporary issues.

7. Kilkenny Arts Festival (August 8-18, 2025)

Set against the medieval charm of Kilkenny, this festival brings together poets, painters, musicians, and performers for ten days of cultural celebration. The Kilkenny Arts Festival features everything from intimate poetry readings to orchestral concerts and immersive art experiences.

8. The Wexford Opera Festival (October 22 – November 2, 2025)

Opera enthusiasts should not miss the world-renowned Wexford Opera Festival, which showcases rarely performed operas and rising stars in the classical music world. The 2025 season promises stunning productions in the beautifully restored National Opera House.

9. The Derry Halloween Festival (October 25-31, 2025)

For a unique blend of history, myth, and creativity, the Derry Halloween Festival is an unforgettable experience. Recognized as one of the world’s best Halloween celebrations, this event combines folklore, theatre, and cutting-edge visual effects to create a spectacular celebration of Ireland’s Celtic heritage.

10. Limerick’s Urban Art Scene

Limerick has emerged as a hub for street art and urban culture. The city’s growing reputation for large-scale murals and underground art movements makes it an exciting destination for contemporary culture lovers. The Draw Out Urban Arts Festival continues to bring international and local artists together to transform the city’s streets into vibrant canvases.

Final Thoughts

Ireland in 2025 offers a cultural journey that spans centuries of tradition and the cutting edge of contemporary art. Whether you’re drawn to live theatre, classical opera, street art, or traditional music, there is something to inspire every art lover. Plan your trip around these unmissable events and experience the best of Ireland’s artistic and cultural richness.

The post The Best Arts and Culture Experiences in Ireland in 2025 appeared first on IrelandPage.com.