Rebekka O’Grady unwinds in Ledsham in a newly renovated spa
I am swimming up and down an 18 metre heated indoor pool and I’ve never had a more picturesque outlook while doing a few lengths. This sense of seclusion is thanks to the marvellous woodland position of the Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa. You can enjoy countryside views through the full-length windows as you swim.
The traditional country house in Ledsham, near Chester, is nestled in 27 acres of woodland, providing the perfect base for a relaxing escape. I was checking out the hotel’s newly renovated Vital Health & Wellbeing Club and Spa, which has just undergone a £1.4million transformation into a luxurious relaxation space.
I started my day of unwinding with an hour or so in the new thermal suite. The multi-sensory area of aromatic drench showers, sauna, steam room, thermal foot-spas and ice fountain invigorated yet relaxed the body and mind and put me in the mood for unwinding in the relaxation room. Looking out onto the garden, I curled up on the comfy lounger, enjoying a herbal tea while reading one of the complimentary magazines. Not a bad day in my books for a Wednesday.
Before my treatment, I was booked in for a two course lunch in the Woodland Café, which overlooks the swimming pool. I enjoyed a freshly made sandwich followed by cheesecake, but couldn’t help feeling a pang of jealousy as ladies on the next table tucked into a scrumptious looking afternoon tea - another reason to return.
After lunch I was taken into one of the tranquil treatment rooms by my therapist Izzy, who talked me through my two ESPA treatments: Optimal Pro Facial (£64) and Aromatherapy Massage (£69). I chose the body and facial oils that appealed most to me, before Izzy began the massage.
This seemed like the ultimate unwinding experience, the sensuous aromatherapy oils easing my tired muscles before lulling me into a state of contentment. The facial massage followed using tri-phase cleansing technology with ESPA’s balancing oils, which is then enhanced with a Clarisonic brushing to give a deeper cleanse. My skin was left with a radiant glow and feeling incredibly soft.
I emerged from the spa feeling totally relaxed, my only regret being that I didn’t book myself into one of the hotel’s elegant bedrooms to complete my perfect country retreat.
Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa, Parkgate Road, Ledsham, CH66 9PB
Tel: 0344 879 9038
