Life can be so hectic and busy these days, with holidays the only time we allow ourselves to relax and unwind. Whether that’s enjoying the simple pleasures of a lazy lie in, a leisurely walk along the beach, or curling up on the sofa with a good book, taking time out to nourish our bodies and souls is so important. Holidays are also about treating yourself, and one of the nicest ‘me time’ splurges is a luxury spa.
A little slice of indulgence heaven, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Cornwall, with options to suit every taste and pocket. Whether you’d rather hang out and relax poolside for a few hours, or go for the complete package of seaweed wraps, marine polished seashell rub downs, hot lava stones and Thai poultices, full body, deep tissue massage treatments, and rejuvenating facials on offer, here’s a few pamper-filled suggestions to get you started.
Bedruthen Steps Hotel, near Newquay
Overlooking the sea at Mawgan Porth, Bedruthan’s chic and contemporary Spa is one for all the senses. With a lavender caldarium, eucalyptus steam room and cedar sauna, their inbuilt aromatic facilities make this a wonderfully restorative experience. Bathed in exotic warmth and scents, or rinsing off under the monsoon showers, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were a million miles away. But if you take their tip to run down to the beach and plunge into the sea after being in the sauna, you’ll definitely know you’re in Cornwall! An exhilarating interlude, once back inside, relax as powerful water jets in the hydro-pool soothe aching muscles. For maximum indulgence, take a look at their mind-boggling array of holistic therapies. Treatments using Ila organic skincare products, focus on the hands and feet, face or body, or how about a Cornish ‘mud and scrub’ version of a Hammam? Being pampered can be hungry work, so why not stay for lunch: an inspired two course tapas menu of seasonal salads, homemade tarts and sinfully delicious cakes, served until 3pm. www.bedruthan.com/spa
The Headland, Newquay
This award-winning spa is ‘five bubble rated’ and promises a welcoming, relaxing, indulgent spa journey. The hotel itself first opened its magnificent doors in 1900, one of the grandest establishments in the South West. Movie lovers will recognise it as the setting for Roald Dahl’s ‘The Witches’ starring Rowen Atkinson and Angelica Houston, while wave watchers will love the crashing ocean views, and world famous surfing Mecca Fistral, being just five minutes’ walk away. Spa day guests get to enjoy complimentary use of their specially designed Cornish salt steam room, Swedish sauna, aromatherapy showers, hot tub, and heated pool. With an ethos of ‘It’s all about you’, their treatment packages include: a Detox Spa Day (detoxifying treatment, detox lunch and fruit smoothie) Headland Spa Experience (shine and polish for hands and feet, sumptuous two-course lunch, glass of fizz) Headland Indulge (75 minute Elemis treatment and elegant afternoon tea) a Headland Signature Body Scrub and much more. Fluffy robes, towels, slippers and contented sighs are all part of the experience. www.headlandhotel.co.uk/spa/spa-days
St Ives Harbour Hotel
Seaside serenity and tranquillity are what you’ll find here, perched above Porthminster Beach’s golden sands, and just a stone’s throw away from the town centre’s delightful cobbled streets, boutique shops and prestigious art galleries. Open seven days a week, the hotel’s Spa facilities include four treatment rooms, an indoor swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool, sauna, feature showers and crystal steam room. Spend a few hours or a whole day, and feel refreshed and revived from top to toe. Choose from their specialist morning or afternoon spa experiences, or a bespoke massage treatment tailored to your specific requirements. Or why not take advantage of their twilight spa sessions to unwind after all your busy vacationing! From 4pm you still have full use of the facilities, combined with various different massages or facials, while it’s Gin O’clock between 4.30-6.30pm – the perfect way to end a perfect Cornish day. Spa and dine packages are also available if you want to make the most of the luxury fine dining Cornwall is renowned for. www.stives-harbour-hotel.co.uk/spa/spa-days
St Michael’s Hotel, Falmouth
Boasting sub-tropical gardens and stunning views across Falmouth Bay, St Michael’s are also the proud recipients of a Best Spa in Cornwall award. You can choose from a basic steam and swim option from just £10, floating in their wonderfully warm 30 degree heated pool, and bubble pummelled in the Jacuzzi. Add a luxurious therapeutic treatment, something from their beauty salon, or ramp up the pampering by opting for a sensuous day spa package. Total Indulgence, Cornish Chill Out, Sea Escape, Mother Nurture… there’s even One For the Boys. Let your senses drift and your body and mind relax, and feel refreshed and rejuvenated ready for the next memorable chapter in your Cornish sojourn. www.stmichaelshotel.co.uk/spa-and-health/spa-days-breaks
But wherever you’re staying in Cornwall, there’s bound to be a Spa near you. So go on, treat yourself. A little self-care goes a long way and you’re worth it!
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