When it’s done right, a spa gives you that floating feeling from more than lying in water. There’s a sense of serenity that washes over you, as you relax in the hushed reverence of a tiled temple to wellness. Here are some of our favourite places to drift, doze and drip dry, from a grand mansion in the Berkshire countryside to a spa & winery on Italy’s quiet east coast. All of them come with a standard spa’s range of treatments and tubs, but the added magic of being special places to stay.
The Retreat, Berkshire
The handsome 1820s house sits in 16 acres of rolling countryside with views over the Kennet valley, and to step inside is to feel immediately cheered – a blazing fire in winter, always a welcome drink, perhaps a cream tea with fizz before exploring. Wellies and e-bikes are waiting, as is a state-of-the-art gym, tennis court and outdoor heated pool – then there’s the spa for ultimate zoning out.
Fritton Lake, Norfolk
A very worthy rewilding project on the Somerleyton estate, for which the owner and all the staff share huge enthusiasm. You stay in the clubhouse or one of the cabins – either a standard or deluxe. All have glass walls to the living room, built specifically to feel part of the wild countryside setting and some have lake views, but they’re cleverly designed not to overlook one another and eating outdoors will be wonderful in warm weather. Jump in the lake or the heated pool; play tennis, pétanque or have a guided run.
Watergate Bay Hotel, Cornwall
Surfers can ride the waves with Wavehunters surf school. But you can still lounge around, and if you have kids, it’s a treat; young children can make friends in the popular Ofsted-registered Kids’ Zone while you disappear for a massage, a swim, long lunch or late dinner.
Cliveden House, Berkshire
Cliveden has no match in Britain, a country house of epic proportions that dates to 1605. It has been home to earls, dukes and one Prince of Wales, but it’s best known for the Profumo affair, which almost sank a government; its famous pool and beautiful new spa are at your disposal. It sits in 376 acres of National Trust land with sublime gardens, marble fountains, sculptures by the dozen.
Gilpin Hotel, Cumbria
A gracious family-run hotel with a fine reputation – it’s one of those rare places that never stands still and additions include five stunning spa chalets above a small lake and two restaurants – SOURCE at Gilpin Hotel and Gilpin Spice. The Lake House is a separate retreat set in 100 acres of private grounds with its own lake – lifts can be provided to and fro if you’re dining.
Manoir de Surville, Eure
Nestled in Normandy’s serene countryside, this estate blends historic charm with modern wellness. Eleven uniquely colored rooms and suites invite relaxation, while the basement spa offers a steam room, sauna cabins, and sensory showers enhanced by light and music. Pamper yourself in elegant granite bathrooms or unwind in the lush surroundings. Gentle hosts, a talented chef, and the French concept of ‘cocooning’ create a tranquil haven for spa lovers seeking rejuvenation.
Hotel Marotte, Amiens, Somme
The spa takes up the basement in one of the buildings: hammam, sauna, hot and cold pools, scented showers, massage and fitness rooms – you could loll down here all day. Each bedroom is different in size and furnishings but all are spick and span, and have seating areas, TVs, magazines in your own language, local macarons, fresh milk for teas and coffee, smart en suite bathrooms, mini fridges with beer and wine.
Wine Relais Feudi del Pisciotto, Niscemi, Caltanissetta
The main building houses the Wine Cellar, the Wine Relais, the breakfast area and the restaurant. Elegant rooms and suites of different sizes are spread out in nearby buildings with original internal walls, designer lighting and beautiful Sicilian furniture and tiles. Stroll through a bucolic vegetable garden to reach the pool, book into the wellness area or onto a tour of the nature reserve.
Filodivino Wine Resort & Spa, San Marcello, Ancona
Come to be thoroughly pampered at this farmhouse with boutique leanings – the perfect blend between natural local materials and interior comforts. Float between the all-weather veranda where meals are served and a lounge corner with soft seating and wood-burner for chillier days. The lovely suite on the first floor has a panoramic terrace; the ground floor suites have their own patios overlooking the vineyards. Wander the landscaped grounds, swim in the pool, head off for long walks in the gently undulating countryside or simply laze in the spa.
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Christopher Wilson-Elmes
Sawday's Expert
Chris is our in-house copywriter, with a flair for turning rough notes and travel tales into enticing articles. Raised in a tiny Wiltshire village, he was desperate to travel and has backpacked all over the world. Closer to home, he finds himself happiest in the most remote and rural places he can find, preferably with a host of animals to speak to, some waves to be smashed about in and the promise of a good pint somewhere in his future.