Restival Returns to Mount Congreve Gardens this May Bank Holiday Weekend

A Celebration of Rest, Wellness, and Connection in the Heart of Waterford’s Great Outdoors Guests Karl Henry, Dr Mark Rowe, Sonya Lennon, Tara Rafter, Marta Vera & more

Mount Congreve Gardens, one of the world’s most celebrated gardens, is delighted to announce the return of Restival— a unique two-day festival dedicated entirely to rest, rejuvenation, and the healing power of nature. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Congreve’s 70 acres of woodland gardens and vibrant spring blooms, Restival 2025 will take place on Saturday, May 3rd, and Sunday, May 4th, offering restivalgoers a rare chance to immerse themselves in a weekend of wellness and mindful connection.

Following the overwhelming success of last year’s sold-out event, Restival returns even bigger and better this May Bank Holiday. With a thoughtfully expanded programme of workshops, wellness experiences, and expert-led sessions, visitors can expect a weekend carefully curated to nourish the mind, body, and soul. The festival is designed as a sanctuary for anyone seeking a meaningful pause from the fast pace of modern life — an opportunity to slow down, reconnect, and restore balance in the serene beauty of one of Ireland’s most extraordinary natural settings.

Throughout the weekend, guests can look forward to a variety of enriching experiences. Among the highlights will be outdoor yoga, meditation, and a sound healing session led by the expert team at Tidal Soul Wellness. Wellness expert, author and TedX speaker Dr Mark Rowe will guide guests on immersive forest bathing walks through the vibrant gardens, inviting them to experience nature’s therapeutic power in full bloom.

The festival will also feature a dynamic lineup of wellness talks and workshops exploring themes of resilience, mindfulness, and holistic living. Wim Hof Method expert Marta Vera will introduce the benefits of cold-water therapy, while award-winning life coach and NLP practitioner Tara Rafter shares transformative strategies for personal growth. Louise Ryan from Sunfleck will delve into the calming power of nature and its role in helping us manage daily stresses.

John Lonergan and Caroline Crotty will inspire audiences with an engaging session on cultivating a positive mental health attitude, while renowned herbalist and founder of Forager, Feebee Foran, will share her expertise in natural skincare and the healing properties of plants.

One of Ireland’s most respected voices in social entrepreneurship, writer, and thought leader Sonya Lennon will deliver a special headline talk, offering reflections on living with intention and purpose. Meanwhile, renowned fitness expert Karl Henry will lead a high-energy class designed to uplift both body and mind, leaving participants feeling invigorated and empowered.

Restivalgoers can also enjoy seasonal, nourishing dishes at The Stables Café, where a specially prepared menu will complement the restorative atmosphere of the weekend. As part of their ticket, guests will have full access to Mount Congreve’s world-famous gardens and woodland trails — an invitation to wander, reflect, and soak in the natural beauty at their own pace.

Restival welcomes individuals, couples, and groups of friends looking for a weekend escape focused on wellness, nature, and self-care. Whether you are deeply immersed in the world of well-being or simply seeking a moment of calm, this event offers the perfect opportunity to reset and recharge in a truly magical setting.

Tickets for Restival 2025 go on sale Friday, March 28th, 2025, at www.mountcongreve.com, priced at 39.00 per day or 65.00 for a weekend pass. Spaces are intentionally limited to preserve the peaceful atmosphere and ensure every guest enjoys an intimate and enriching experience.

Sara Dolan, CEO of Mount Congreve Gardens, shares her excitement about the festival’s return: “Restival is about giving people permission to pause — to step away from the noise of daily life and embrace the simple, profound joy of resting. There is no better place to do that than here, surrounded by the beauty of nature in one of Ireland’s most stunning gardens. After the incredible response to last year’s event, we’re thrilled to welcome everyone back for what promises to be an even more special weekend of rest, connection, and well-being.”

For those wishing to extend their stay and truly immerse themselves in the Restival experience, onsite accommodation is available at the charming Estate Gate Lodge, the stunning Court Yard Suite, or the gorgeous Forest Cabins with their own private hot-tubs and the off-grid Bell Tents, all located in Mount Congreve Gardens. Festival accommodation packages are available for stays over the May Bank Holiday Weekend (Friday 2nd – Monday 5th May) starting from €445 per two people sharing for a 2-night stay. The onsite Restival break offers guests a peaceful retreat nestled within the estate’s woodlands. Every guest staying for the weekend will also receive a complimentary gift from Feebee the Forager. Full details are available at www.mountcongreve.com.

Contact reservations@mountcongreve.com for group rates.