If you’re looking for a pre-Christmas treat that isn’t going to add to the already increasing credit card bill, then book yourself in for a spa day at this lovely New Forest hotel.
My friend and I turned up on a wet and windy day last month and after donning fluffy robes and relaxing with a herbal tea in the lounge, we soon forgot about the miserable weather outside.
Our therapists were lovely, very attentive and skilled in the Elemis routine – which has always been impressive wherever I have experienced it. I went for the Deep Tissue Muscle Massage, which was tailored specifically to my needs; while my friend opted for a facial – she came out glowing so it must have been good.
After a swim and a sauna, the hotel describes their spa area as a leisure club and so don’t expect experience rooms and hydrotherapy; we went in to the bar for some lunch. Rather unexpectedly this appeared in a tray format with small dishes of your chosen theme – fish, meat or vegetarian. It was all cooked well but the dessert could have been served separately as we were in danger of getting tartar sauce in our meringue at one point. The wine list was pretty good though and the service was fine.
Considering the price, £65 per person, and what you get for it, a two course lunch plus an hour long treatment and a long old snooze in a comfy chair – this is a fantastic deal that will leave you feeling ready to take on the Christmas madness in the next few weeks.
Book: Macdonald Elmers Court Hotel & Resort, South Baddesley Road, SO41 5ZB, Tel: 0844 879 9060
