Forget Steve McQueen, all you need is a couple of hours and the Spa at the Chester Grosvenor to plan your escape, writes Rebekka O’Grady
As far as Monday mornings go, mine was pretty much perfect. Instead of the usual drive to work, bleary-eyed and stuck in traffic, I found myself feeling serene and relaxed in the Chester Grosvenor spa. Located in the heart of the luxury Grade II listed hotel on Eastgate, the boutique spa is a haven from the busy streets of the city.
After a quick change into swimwear, I made my way to the Thermal Suite to start my day of relaxation. Comprising a series of heat-related experiences, including a Herb Sauna, Themed Shower and Crystal Steam Room, the suite (£35 pp or complimentary when you spend £100 on treatments) aims to soothe, relax and detoxify your body. Guests also have access to complimentary Elemis products while in the suite, including the Frangipani Monoi Salt Glow which was amazing to use in the foot baths.
An hour soon passed, and I was then taken into a treatment room by my therapist for the day, Mallaidh. I was booked in for the Elemis Deep Tissue Muscle Massage (£70) and a facial, so Mallaidh chatted with me about my skin concerns to choose on what treatment would be best. She decided that the Elemis Visible Brilliance Facial (£75) would be ideal to hydrate my skin as the treatment is said to be clinically proven to increase moisture by up to 61% and elasticity by up to 40% after just one treatment.
Mallaidh started with my massage, an hour-long treatment which alleviates high stress levels and eases aching muscles. Not only that, but the dynamic Elemis Frangipani Monoi Body Oil used helped to relax and re-energise my mind. Feeling totally at ease, it was now time for my facial. Possibly one of the best facials I have ever had, the 60 minutes saw a thorough cleanse, plus two masks, resulting in skin that felt very plump and smooth.
I was brought back to reality with a small dish of refreshing blackcurrant sorbet. Mallaidh then went through recommendations for a personalised aftercare regime before I was taken to the drawing room for a delicious two-course spa lunch (£20) of coq au vin and a dessert of rum baba with passion fruit ice-cream and pineapple jelly.
My pamper day at the Chester Grosvenor was nearly at an end, but I had one more treatment before leaving my bubble of sanctuary: the Darphin Manicure treatment (£60). After exfoliation and hydration with a Jojoba pampering massage, a coat of Jessica nail polish was applied leaving my talons looking tidy and shiny. The perfect end to what was probably my most perfect Monday. w
The Chester Grosvenor, Eastgate, Chester, CH1 1LT Tel: 01244 324024, www.chestergrosvenor.com
