Innovative Maldives icon Huvafen Fushi has unveiled a breathtaking new ‘SpaQuarium’ experience, providing a unique cinematic window into the watery world of the reef by night. Every evening as night falls, the resort’s legendary world-first underwater spa is transformed as guests descend into this uniquely ethereal space to be mesmerised by the kaleidoscopic panorama that envelops them. The abundance and diversity of Huvafen Fushi’s marine life is exuberantly evident at every turn, and any time of day – but it is after dark, below the surface, that the reef dramatically reveals itself as a vivacious landscape of nocturnal predators on the hunt; of bioluminescent plankton sparking ‘fire in the ocean’; and of beautiful corals fluorescing under the gaze of UV torches.

Simultaneously enchanting and educational, the SpaQuarium experience is a captivating pre- or post-dinner hour of wonder – not to mention a unique, revelatory opportunity for guests who are uncomfortable with diving or snorkelling to discover the magical world beneath the waves. Guests can enjoy a glass of Champagne, canapés and petit fours while Huvafen Fushi’s resident marine biologist narrates the natural drama playing out before them. UV light torches and yellow filter visors illuminate the submarine scene: from sharks, rays, moray eels and giant trevallies flashing after their prey to zooplankton feeding on phytoplankton; from octopus and the occasional lobster to a chromatic carousel of tropical fish including squirrelfish, soldierfish, snappers, parrotfish and triggerfish. Dotting the spa reefscape, brain corals, branching corals and sea anemone fluoresce brilliantly thanks to protective layers known as ‘coral sunscreen’.

The SpaQuarium experience also provides an opportunity to see the fruits of Huvafen Fushi’s coral propagation programme. The spa reef is home to several mature coral frames that have ‘graduated’ from the resort’s coral nurseries. From humble beginnings as small coral fragments or ‘nubbins’, the thriving frames reach colony size after approximately three years of careful cultivation by the in-house marine biology team before being replanted at the reef. Burgeoning populations of coral-associated species like damselfish are indicative of the health of the island’s reefs, and the success of the coral propagation initiative.

Just 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Huvafen Fushi exists in a dreamlike bubble; beyond the banal intrusions of flight or boat paths, wreathed only by horizon. A sanctuary of iconic design and natural beauty, the resort’s 44 enrapturing, naturally modern villas – each with a private deck and freshwater infinity pool – are enhanced by the signature Thakuru butler service first pioneered by Huvafen Fushi over 15 years ago. An array of unique culinary experiences are infused with the resort’s customary serenity, from subterranean gastronomic adventures curated by renowned consultant sommelier Guillem Kerambrun at Vinum, the Indian Ocean’s only underground wine cellar; to laid-back Izakaya-style dining at Huvafen’s unmistakable overwater restaurant, now returned to its birth name, Salt.

SpaQuarium is bookable either as a shared experience for groups of four to six guests, from USD95++ per person; or as a fully private couples experience from USD250++ per couple. For those wishing to explore Huvafen’s nocturnal marine world further, the resort also offers guided night snorkelling trips where guests might encounter lobster, octopus and lionfish patrolling the reef.

For further information and booking enquiries, please visit www.huvafenfushi.com, email stay@huvafenfushi.com or tel. +960 665 5265

Instagram: @huvafenfushi_maldives

Twitter: @HuvafenMaldives

Facebook: @MaldivesHuvafenFushi

The post Huvafen Fushi Launches Underwater SpaQuarium appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

If the last few weeks are starting to drag, planning something to look forward to may help. It will also fill some of the blissful empty July and August spaces on the calendar!

What better place to visit than Ragdale Hall in Leicestershire? It promises to offer a peaceful and calming environment, a far cry from a classroom full of fidgety five year olds or exam weary teens.

Many teachers will be in desperate need of some TLC after the long academic year that is now almost behind them and we have a varied range of spa days, spa breaks and great value special offers to suit every taste and pocket, plus award winning spa facilities in which to completely switch off and chill out.

It’s time for weary teachers and teaching assistants to step away from the white board and snuggle into a white fluffy robe instead!

www.ragdalehall.co.uk

The post Schools out for Summer appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

So, whether you wish to unwind and revitalise, join one of their 3-7 Night Weight Loss Health Fitness or Pilates-Yoguilates Retreats, or looking for a “Pre-Wedding” Health & Spa Retreat, they could be your best wedding idea yet.

Their goal is to inspire and invigorate you with the most effective methods that can change and improve your life. They specialise in delivering awe-inspiring experience in the art of living well; self-connection, incorporating stress-management skills, help you detox cleanse.

Customised holistic health programs are designed to cleanse, detoxify, boost vitality and integrate the body, mind and Spirit with lasting results.  Check out their set Retreat dates or design your own.

Wellness Retreat Chez Gabard, enables you to focus on yourself, all about “Me” time, whilst being supported within a small group of no more than 6/8 like-minded people.

Their tranquil haven for your wellbeing journey, designed for people wanting a Lifestyle Change, time out. They encourage you to try activities you may never have thought of trying, food prepared in different ways, just enjoying yourself, away from your normal busy schedule.

The calm atmosphere, within a unique setting, just makes you want to absorb the fresh air, blue skies, open countryside, to just “Stop”, slow down. You will leave feeling empowered, with positive sustainable lifestyle changes, we enable you to find your inner confidence, with a balanced, mind body spirit, understanding what is clean conscious eating, enjoy exercise classes you may not have tried before, go home and join a gym! Help you address and kick those nasty habits, and create better healthier habits, regarding food and exercise, whilst you relax, rejuvenate, start believing in yourself again.

Prices include: Depending upon Retreat Package Booked, T&C

• Luxurious en-suite accommodation
• Bathrobes,  Toiletries.
• Use of the Pool, Infra-Red Sauna, outdoor Jacuzzi. Classes & Excursions, Holistic Treatments by appointment (some activities will depend on the time of year)
• All delicious, nourishing and satisfying meals, calorific-ally designed for your needs, goals a full
• Assessment Consultation & Postural Analyses.
• Holistic Treatments, Activities as per each retreat programme, time of year/package.
• By Arrangement Local train station transfers, Bordeaux Airport pick up/drop off, set time collection point/per Package agreement, upon booking & T & C.

They suggest you drive yourself or come with friends and incorporate staying in other places after or before your Retreat

Retreats in 2017

3 Night Retreats Pilates-Yoguilates Relaxation Meditation Weekends ( 21 April 2017 & 12 May & 30 June 2017)
7 Night Weight Loss Health Fitness Retreat (2 June 2017 & 21 July & 4 August & 8 September 2017)
contact email; debgoodfellow @ yahoo.com
www.wellness-retreat.co.uk

The post Blissful Location, a Retreat ​bespoke for you appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Where to Learn a Healthy Lifestyle:

The Philippines The Farm at San Benito

Nestled amidst a tranquil haven of tropical jungle in the Philippines, this life changing healthy holiday will provide you with the knowledge you need to learn a healthier lifestyle. At the centre of this wellness retreats philosophy; detoxifying treatments, raw nutrition, fitness activities and emotional guidance, will provide you with the fresh start you need. Shape-up with circuit training and aqua aerobics, before unwinding with yoga and an indulgent menu of detoxifying spa treatments. Be inspired on this holiday with nutritious meals from the award-winning restaurant and enhance your well-being with food preparation classes, where you’ll learn healthy eating habits you can continue at home.

Health and Fitness Travel offers 7 nights at The Farm from £2,240pp or £2,590 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a choice of programmes, return flights and transfers.

Where to Beat Stress:

India Ananda Stress Management

Start your New Year on a healthy de-stress holiday and banish anxiety in the peaceful tranquillity of India’s Himalayas. Begin your lifestyle overhaul on this healthy holiday with professional wellness and fitness consultations to ensure your stress is targeted long-term. Revel in the peace of the enchanting landscape with daily sunrise yoga classes, pranayama and meditation, before relaxing with Ayurvedic treatments at the luxury spa. Unwind with an aroma cocoon, revive with a grounding salt scrub or re-connect with Reiki. Make the most of educational lectures and workshops on this wellness holiday to return home feeling inspired and informed to make the small changes needed for a healthier stress free lifestyle.

Health and Fitness Travel offers 5 nights at Ananda from £2,265pp or £2,830 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a de-stress programme, return flights and transfers.

Where to Lose Weight:

Austria Grand Park Weight Loss

Fight the festive bloat and begin your New Year’s resolution to lose weight by escaping to Austria on a luxury weight loss holiday. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains, this healthy holiday provides a peaceful environment in which to reach your weight loss goals. With the help of a nutritionist and your personalised weight loss plan, comprised of a basic diet and daily fitness classes, including yoga and Qi Gong, you will be whipped back into shape in no time. Pamper yourself after your hard work on this spa retreat with luxury treatments, including daily Gastein water treatments, a skin renewing fruit peel and a total body lymphic massage.

Health and Fitness Travel offers 7 nights at Grand Park from £1,595pp or £1,715 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, a weight loss programme, return flights and transfers.

Where to Stop Smoking:

Spain SHA Anti-Tobacco

Quit smoking in a natural and healthy way by escaping on a luxury healing holiday in Spain. A favourite amongst celebrities, kick the bad habit this New Year with the guidance of medical and wellness experts on a healthy holiday that will transform your life. Complement your wellness break with a prescribed healthy diet, relaxing yoga and meditation sessions, and healing spa therapies, including acupuncture and oxygen therapy sessions. With a personalised post treatment health plan, this wellness retreat will ensure you keep your New Year’s resolution and quit smoking for good.

Health and Fitness Travel offers 7 nights at SHA from £3,325pp or £3,815 for single occupancy. Price includes full board, anti-tobacco programme, return flights and transfers.

Where to Solve Digestive Problems:

UK Grayshott Spa Optimal Health

If you are tired of battling with digestive problems such as IBS and bloating, start the New Year afresh on a healthy break when you escape to this luxury wellness retreat in Surrey. Causing other health issues, such as backache and sleep difficulties, banish unwanted digestive problem symptoms and embrace change with this luxury spa retreat. Created with the latest scientific knowledge, this wellness break includes personal health consultations, blood analysis, education lectures and post departure plans to help you keep your New Year’s resolution. Complement your stay with daily guided walks, yoga and specialist spa treatments, including abdominal massages and hydro bath sessions to encourage detoxification.

Where to Enhance Sleep & Beat Insomnia:

Thailand Kamalaya Sleep Enhancement

Beat insomnia and enhance sleep this New Year with this luxury wellness holiday on the paradise island of Koh Samui. Integral to a healthy mind and body, improve and regulate your sleeping patterns on this healthy holiday with a sleep enhancement consultation, body bio-impedance analysis and naturopathic lifestyle consultation. An ideal spa holiday escape, tackle life’s stresses and unwind with holistic Ayurvedic massages, Asian hand and foot massages and Shirodhara. Enhance relaxation and sleep easy with complimentary access to the steam caverns, personal meditation, Pranayama, yoga and Reiki, to address the issues which are causing your insomnia.

Where to Detox:

Italy Adler Thermae Detox

Cleanse your body of the unwanted toxins accumulated during the festive feast season and escape to the Tuscan hills for a reviving detox holiday this New Year. With a medical consultation on arrival, a nutrition plan with set meal times and detoxifying spa treatments (including hydro massages and aqua detox foot-baths) cleanse and refresh your body on this well-being escape. Embrace change on this healthy holiday and enhance your detox whilst making the most of your beautiful surroundings with complimentary Nordic walking and yoga classes. With benefits from increased energy levels to kick-starting weight loss, return home from this detox retreat rejuvenated and ready for the New Year.

Where to go for Better Ageing:

Switzerland La Réserve Genève Better Ageing

Age gracefully in health and wellness this New Year by escaping on a luxury anti-ageing holiday. Located on the stunning shores of Lake Geneva, amidst ten acres of beautiful parkland, enhance your well-being with anti-ageing treatments based on the latest scientific advances at this luxury wellness retreat. With biological and genetic testing, healthy nutrition, better ageing massages and balneotherapy, leave this wellness retreat feeling revived and youthful. Take part in complimentary fitness classes and enjoy daily personal training sessions to boost your health and fitness, whilst Medical doctors conduct physical health evaluations and diet check-ups to enhance your well-being.

Where to go for Mindfulness:

India Shreyas Silent Retreat

Embark on a spiritual journey on a meditation retreat of self-discovery this New Year and learn how to fully unwind your mind, body and soul. Spend your days in tranquillity and escape the stresses of everyday life with private Pranayama sessions, yoga nidra and candle meditation, as you learn mindfulness and awareness on this wellness break in India. Discover deep relaxation with rejuvenating Balinese, Swedish and Thai massages at the luxury spa and enjoy group classes. An ideal meditation retreat for those seeking a renewing wellness break; return home ready to tackle the New Year head on with a new healthy mindfulness.

Where to Get Fit:

St.Lucia The BodyHoliday Fusion Fitness

Kick start the New Year in peak shape at this all-inclusive health and fitness retreat in sunny St. Lucia, perfect for a singles holiday. Hidden amongst tropical jungle, this stunning beach-front retreat is an ideal escape for a fitness holiday. Work up a sweat with a mixture of private cardio, strength and sport workouts, including box fit, TRX training and tennis, to set you on track for a fitter and healthier you. Embrace change on this fitness holiday with mind and body sessions, such as yoga or Tai Chi, before soothing sore muscles at the luxury spa with a sports massage or reflexology.

For more information and prices visit www.healthandfitnesstravel.com or call 0203 397 8891

The post Get back on the wellness wagon appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

La Cote Saint Jacques overlooks Joigny’s majestic, slow-moving River Yonne and is close to the famous Chablis vineyards.  After checking into the upmarket Relais & Chateaux Hotel, we dropped off our luggage in the lovely suite with riverside balcony, and headed for the split-level spa [800 sq. metres].  Here, the Treatment Centre boasts a hammam, sauna, fitness centre, body and treatment rooms, where, amongst others, one can indulge in Ayurvedic massages, revitalising ‘Papaya Puree’ body scrubs, Balinese body treatments, using Cinq Mondes and Carita top brands. Unwinding after superb body massage and facial, we swam a few lengths in the upper-level indoor swimming pool before plunging into the adjacent effervescent giant circular Jacuzzi, where we secretly phantasized over a dinner to be prepared by Patron three Michelin-starred Grand-Chef, Jean-Michel Lorain. Life doesn’t get much better than this!”

Just 1½ hours from Paris and located at the gates of the Burgundy region, here is a “Destination Hotel” really worthy of the title.  One of the 26 best dining experiences in France¸ La Cote Saint Jacques is a Mecca for food-loving Parisians seeking a weekend’s escape from the city.  Once arrived, a wealth of attractions mean there is no need to step beyond the hotel’s enclaves. Lovely air-conditioned suites and spacious elegant terraces overlook the river.  Along with the Spa, Jacuzzi and large indoor swimming pool, there is fishing, boating or waterside dining for those inclined.  Specially designed entertainment programmes for children are on offer.  And, of course, cookery courses from Jean-Michel are a star draw.

The hotel, an assemblage of townhouses cleverly realigned into a de luxe hotel, is clustered above the banks of the picturesque river.  Here, in the wood-panelled dining room, Jean-Michel, when just 27, first garnered his famous Michelin Star triumph, the youngest Chef in France to achieve such an honour.  Visitors from all over the world are drawn to this prestigious Relais & Chateaux member, and in 2009, Jean-Michel won the coveted Prix Villegiature Award for Europe’s best hotel restaurant.

“White asparagus with warm vinaigrette” then, “mango and pineapple brochette with chilli” was our lunch in the restaurant of the calm, stone-coloured Spa.  Finally we had cracked that all time French paradox.  How come our Gallic cousins can indulge their gourmet lifestyles, yet stay so slim?  Conundrum solved as we both conserved our appetite for dinner, and enjoyed a delicious calorie-counted Menu.

In the wood-panelled library, we were offered a flame-thrower of a pre-dinner aperitif that was not only delicious but designed to loosen the tongues of any unsuspecting stiff upper-lipped Anglo-Saxon. Maceration Agrumes’ comprised:  Cognac, Grand Marnier, Campari and Domaine Michel Lorain’s cremant Burgundy. Gourmet themes abound, celebrity photos and a wallpaper of recipes by the bar; to descend to the dining room, we boarded a copper lift that was like a stepping into a giant kettle.  On offer for fine dining is Chestnut crème brulee, Ocean Terrine or the signature dish Bresse Chicken steamed in Champagne and cooked in pastry-sealed casseroles, the  choirboy’s pastry ruff served by the Dining Room Manager, Pascal Bondoux.  Throughout, the décor and colour schemes are inspired by the warm earthy tones of fruits and vegetables.

Says Jean-Michel Lorain, hotel patron who leads a team of 75 professionals, and, unlike many celebrity chefs, is always to be found in the kitchen: “For me, this is much more than a hotel.  It is the house where I grew up, my grandparents lived and where my father and mother opened the hotel.  I want guests to enjoy it as friends.”

BRITTANY FERRIES:
[Reservations & Enquiries, telephone 0871 244 0744] The car ferry service operates from 10 ports in the Irish Republic, France and Spain. This summer, Brittany Ferries sails from Portsmouth to 3 appealing destinations in Normandy: incl. Caen, Cherbourg and, from May 16th, Le Havre.

La Cote Saint Jacques & Spa, 14 Faubourg de Paris, 89300 Joigny, France. Telephone: +33 (0)3 86 62 09 70 Wellbeing Readers as hotel guests, children under 12 staying in rooms are not not charged.  Playing area.  Pets welcomed. 3 Michelin-star restaurants.

For more details visit cotesaintjacques.com/en/

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Setting off on our journey to drop our daughter at my parents for a child free evening, we arrived at the Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa in Whitchurch, a relaxed country club ambience with stylish, modern interiors.

We drove through the golf course and with 2 challenging and professionally designed courses, a good size swimming pool and their recently renovated Vital Health & Wellbeing Club it’s the perfect venue for couples, families and group nights away.

Even though we arrived in torrential rain, the golf course was busy with keen golfers of all ages, however Richard and I were here to sample the delights of the Vital Health & Wellbeing Club.

The Spa
Arriving just in time to order our lunch, we slipped into our robes and slippers before sitting down to our light lunch. Our package was to include a 30 minute Rasul treatment followed by a 30 minute back massage.

Having tried a number of Rasul treatment in the past I was keen to see how this one compared and was surprised to find that this treatment was a “Do It Yourself” one.

Once in the Rasul treatment room we were shown the salt scrub, which we were to use as an exfoliator, then a quick shower before applying the mud while sitting in the steam room. After about 20 minutes the steam stopped and we pressed a button to release over head shower sprinklers to wash off all the mud. It was quite a fun experience and one that is perfect for couples or groups of friends on a girlie break.

We had a bit of time before the next treatment so a quick snooze in the relaxation room was just what we needed after the heat of the steam room. We both had back massages which were excellent, ironing out the knots and releasing tension ready for a good night’s sleep.

The Restaurant
We booked a meal in their main Borders restaurant to sample the delights of their Scottish inspired menu. Everything was cooked perfectly, from the Scotch Broth (which was a meal in itself!) to the lamb and the freshly cooked bread, I couldn’t have asked for more.

Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa is a perfect destination for a short stay especially if there is a golfer in the party. While they enjoy their round of golf the rest can enjoy a very pleasant day exercising in the gym and pool and of course a little pampering in the Spa!

Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa
Tarporley Road,Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 4JH
T. 08448 799 199 www.MacdonaldHotels.co.uk/HillValley

SPECIAL OFFERS

Las Vegas Spa break 
(only £99pp) available on Saturdays throughout December and selected Fridays:

• Overnight stay inclusive of Breakfast
• 1 x 30 minute treatment each
• Robe and slippers
• Full use of our leisure facilities
• Entrance to our Las Vegas themed Christmas party to include arrival cocktails, 4 course lavish meal, Casino tables and DJ

Paradise Escape Spa Break 
(Sun – Thurs £159pp, Fri – Sat £169pp):

• Dinner, bed and breakfast with a one hour 45 minute treatment per person – the luxurious signature paradise escape treatment consists of a full body fruit seed exfoliation followed by full body Decleor massage and Decleor facial with nourishing wheat mask.
• Also includes full use of facilities, robes and slippers with a healthy lunch and glass of sparkling wine.

The post Macdonald Hill Valley Hotel, Golf & Spa appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Raspberries, cassis, strawberries, and redcurrants – are packed with anti-oxidants, vitamins and trace elements which he had studied in his work.  For millions of years the digestive tract of our nomadic human ancestors knew only wild berries and tubers.  If their survival depended on this diet then, how much more in a sedentary job in this fast food age, could we reap the benefits that red berries had to offer.  Convinced these fruits could form the basis of a unique health regime and youth-boosting treatments, the charming Garnier dreamed of creating a luxury Spa in the heart of the vineyards.

A Burgundian born and bred, when the beautiful Chateau de Citeaux came on to the market, Jean saw a way to realise his vision, which he now practices and patents as ‘Fruititherapy’, with a range of products. The result is the newly opened La Cueillette, a hotel and Spa resort nestling amid vines in the charming medieval village of Meursault. Alongside the elegant chateau constructed nearly a century and a half ago, is a purpose-built, up-to-the-minute Spa complex, over 450 sq. metres of swimming pool, hammam, sauna, Jacuzzi, fully-equipped gym and treatment rooms.

[quote]”The Spa is not an ‘add-on’ or a fashionable accessory”, Garnier explains. “It is the hub of La Cueillette and the main focus for our visitors who are seeking relaxation and a restorative regime when they visit us.”[/quote]

Treatments on offer include Fruititherapy massages, wraps and beauty masks, based on the core use of the age-defying red Burgundy berries.  “I sampled the Grand Cru Monopole,” says Frances, “a delicious two-hour treatment of exfoliation and wrap, which involved being covered in a gloopy mix of organic blackcurrant, grape  seed oil and honey, with a massage to finish.  It was both invigorating and hydrating and left my skin feeling soft and glowing.”  Also on offer are made to measure packages focussed on slimming or anti-ageing. In the chateau itself, the gilded La Cueillette Dining Room with its ceiling decoration is a restored work of art, complete with frescoes, ornamental woodwork and authentic Aubusson tapestries.

The 19th-century chateau is built over magnificent Cistercian 12th-century cellars with lofty barrel-vaulted ceilings. Secret passages, endless cobblestoned floors vanishing into darkness and a vast expanse make the cellars an ideal venue to hire for events and tastings, and lead to Le Potager, an intimate bistro where diners can enjoy, perhaps, a boeuf bourguignon by a roaring fire in the huge stone chimneypiece in the chateau’s former kitchen.  Accompanying our meal of osso buco and trout, we drank a delicious Vieux Clos du Chateau de Citeaux, from the vineyards by our bedrooms.  The gastronomic restaurant, La Cueillette, with its sumptuous setting, leads to a balustrated terrace overlooking the park and Meursault’s 15th-century church, the menus all orchestrated by Michelin-starred chef, Laurent Couturier. Vegetarians welcomed. All meals are sourced from local organic suppliers and fresh from the chateau’s own vegetable garden. [Gastronomic Restaurant La Cueillette – menus from 50E; Bistro Le Potager – from 22E].

GETTING THERE
Brittany Ferries 0871 244 1400  www.brittanyferries.com Overnight cross-channel service from Portsmouth to Caen.  We broke the 550km car journey to Beaune, Burgundy at Evreux’s newly renovated 4-star Best Western Hotel President, Pascal Vivier, Manager, Patricia Marie, Blvd de Normandie, 2700 Evreux. Tel: + 33 (0)2 32 38 77 77 www.bw-evreux.com Rooms start at 77.10 Euros.
Office de Tourisme de Beaune www.beaune-tourisme.fr

The post Fruititherapy in France appeared first on Wellbeing Magazine.

Set in over 350 acres of beautiful land, the estate boasts a 27 hole Championship Golf Course and a truly glorious Spa, completed by sumptuous rooms, delicious restaurants and lounges, and extensive leisure facilities: all only 35 minutes from London.

From the moment you sweep up that famous drive, passing gently sculptured fairways on either side, complemented by the tranquil lake and Memorial Gardens, you have crossed into elegance, sophistication and splendour. Then you are met by The Mansion house itself, one of the last truly majestic British buildings open for public use, and lovingly restored to reflect all aspects of the estate history, which stretches back for over 1,000 years.

Through The Mansion doors you are greeted by friendly staff, who will take you through to The Orangery where you can enjoy a chilled glass of something bubbly and take in the views. The Mansion boasts 21 rooms ranging from ‘bedrooms’ to ‘suites,’ all with traditional decoration, sumptuous furniture, and marble bathrooms with roll-top baths. The Dining Room is also situated here, offering contemporary British cuisine, whilst The Orangery offers comprehensive breakfast and lunch menus.

Situated beside The Mansion is The Pavilion building, opened in 2008. This building offers a further 28 rooms, again ranging from ‘bedrooms’ to ‘suites,’ decorated in a more contemporary style, with marble bathrooms, 42 inch HD LCD TV’s, mood lighting and magnificent views of Windsor Castle. The Pavilion also hosts the swimming pool, San Marco Italian Restaurant and SPA SPC. The Spa is a beautiful combination of modern and tranquil surroundings, with an extensive range of treatments including:

The Active Glow Facial, combining a kiwi seed and pomegranate scrub, lymphatic drainage and pressure point scalp massage to detoxify and leave you with a radiant, glowing complexion. £80, 55 minutes.

The White Chocolate Wrap, a decadent and soothing treatment to leave the skin nourished and replenished. A layer of pampering oil and white chocolate cream is applied to your skin, your body is then cocooned in heated fleeces, whilst you receive a luxurious foot and scalp massage, then a relaxing full body massage to leave you nourished and calm. £110, 85 minutes.

The Aromaheat, uses Hawaiian, Balinese and Thai massage techniques to relax and restore tense muscles. A heated herbal poultice, full of active ingredients, is rolled along the body to create full relaxation, whilst warm essential oils are drizzled on for a pampering massage. £110, 85 minutes.

If your looking for something a bit more active, then you can either hit the gym or head towards the Stoke Poges golf course, complete with driving range, putting green and short game practice area. Designed by Harry Shapland Colt and opened in 1909, the course is famous in golfing quarters, selected by Golf World in 2006 as one of the ‘Top 100 Courses in the World,’ a considerable honour when there is estimated to be over 32,000 courses world wide. If golf is not your thing then how about tennis? Stoke Park boasts 13 tennis courts, including six Wimbledon specification courts, which play host to the annual Boodles Tennis Tournament, past players including Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick, and Britain’s very own Andy Murray.

If all this is still not enough to tempt you, Stoke Park has also been the location for several major films over the last 60 years. James Bond famously played Golf upon its hallowed greens against the cheating Goldfinger in 1964, whilst Daniel Craig dramatically enters after Colm Meaney’s summons “I’ll see you at Stoke Park at 3.00″and is eventually shot on The Mansion steps in Layer Cake. For us ladies there is perhaps the slightly more memorable scenes of Bridget Jones’s Diary, where Bridget accompanies Daniel Cleaver on a romantic mini break: firstly frolicking about on the lake, then retiring to the grand Pennsylvania Suite.

There are several break packages to choose from, all include the regular DBB however there are some tempting additions:

The Bridget Jones’s Mini Break: Includes Chardonnay, chocolate dipped strawberries and a DVD of the film.

The Sophisticated Girls Night: Includes champagne, a Facial or Massage and a group makeup or perfume blending demonstration.

Rest, Relaxation and Revive: Includes a Hot Stone Massage, Active Glow Facial and Therapeutic Hydrotherapy.

My Trip Itinerary:

I stayed in an Executive Room in The Pavilion, a beautiful modern yet homely room with exceptionally comfortable furnishings, marble bathroom with heated floors large bath and shower, and a fantastically large TV. (£325.00 per room.)

I ate in the San Marco Restaurant, choosing the Baked Cambozola, Grilled Skate Wing and Strawberry and Vanilla Crème Tartlet, all of which was delicious and correctly proportioned. (£32.50 with soft drinks, DBB included in most rates.)

For Breakfast I chose The Orangery, which offers both continental and full English, in a relaxed atmosphere with attentive and helpful staff. (Included in the rate.)

For my pampering session I chose the Active Glow Facial with Bee. She was conscientious and friendly, whilst the facial was, it has to be said, divine: leaving me thoroughly relaxed and my face soft and fresh. (£80, 55 minutes, and well worth it.) 10/10 for all aspects of the SPA, which was voted one of the Top Ten British Spas by both Tatler and The Daily Telegraph.

I then sampled afternoon tea on the lawn, overlooking the famous Repton Bridge, lake and Memorial Gardens. It was a lovely, and substantial, treat complemented by the beautiful surroundings and warm sunshine. (£25, for two to share.)

I would not hesitate to enjoy a break there with my girlfriends again, and would strongly recommend it for those looking for a break away in a peaceful and friendly environment.

www.stokeparkclub.com

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SenSpa was a wonderful surprise. Walking through the corridors of the hotel, suddenly we came upon the entrance to the Spa, guarded by Thai statues blending East and West beautifully. Down the stairs, past the Zen Garden restaurant into the Spa reception, it was clear to see the Thai influence which features strongly throughout the Spa.

What we enjoyed most

The Hydrotherapy Pool –
The water was warm, with lots of buttons to press activating jets of water. We were pummeled and pampered washing away our aches and pains.

Experience Showers –
Tropical, sea and ice storm showers complete with thunder and lightning, were wonderfully invigorating.

Tepidarium –
The cool air as we walked in made us nearly walk out but after relaxing on the heating beds, listening to the water fountain we soon found ourselves drifting off to sleep.

Mind and Body Class –
45 minutes of gentle tai chi and yoga moves to relax the mind and body.

Afternoon tea in the Quiet Room –
We enjoyed finger sandwiches and a wonderful selection of tea breads, cakes, scones with jam & cream – very indulgent!

We Tried

Moroccan Hammam Massage
1 hour, £80 Relax on a heated Hammam bed whilst Rhassoul mud is massaged over your body.
Swedish Massage
1 hour, £70 Using traditional Swedish strokes which soothe tired, strained muscles and stimulate blood circulation.Indulge in a Spa Break

Indulge in a Spa Break

Your break will include:

• One Night’s Luxury Accommodation
• Fine Dining Experience in our 2 AA Rosette Manor Restaurant
• Full use of Spa Facilities
• Mind & Body Class
• Authentic two course Thai Lunch
• A Rhassoul Mud Treatment

This offer is available until 30th January 2010. Just £175 per person per night from Sunday to Thursday, £185 per person per night on Friday and Saturday.

To Book Call Reservations on 01590 624467 www.senspa.co.uk
Subject to availability, conditions apply. Treatment can be changed for a supplementary charge.

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