Team spa travels: Spabreaks.com team road trip

Keeping their toes well and truly submerged in the waters of the UK’s wide variety of spa and spa hotel experiences, the Spabreaks.com team have been road tripping across the country to feedback their thoughts.  This month shines a spotlight on QHotels - The Hampshire Court Hotel, Old Thorns Golf and Country Estate and Ringwood Hall Hotel and Spa…

Spa Guru, Jade, tells us about a spa break at QHotels - The Hampshire Court Hotel, Hampshire

What did you do on your spa break?

A group of us visited and It was perfect for a group spa break! Firstly we checked into our rooms, which had upgraded VIQ rooms.  I definitely recommend upgrading for that extra touch of something special complete with mini fridge and lovely toiletries.

Then we had a wander around the facilities inside and out, before having dinner in the private dining space.  Again, if you’re visiting with friends or on a hen party, that little touch of privacy means you can really personalise the occasion. One of the highlights of visiting the hotel is the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery close by, so no trip here would be complete without a tipple or two, which we did after dinner.

What was the best bit about the spa hotel?

I think the best thing for me personally was the service provided by the staff. They were very accommodating and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. They were so easy to talk as well so if there’s anything you need it’s very easy to ask - even if you think it’s a silly question.

Did anything surprise you about it?

I think the surprising  bit for me was how big it was - I got lost quite a few times! Also, the garden area was lovely, it’s no surprise it’s sometimes used for small weddings.

What spa treatment did you have?

I had an express facial as my skin was awful and the treatment really helped to cleanse, refresh and get rid of all the dry skin.

Who would you recommend the spa hotel to?

I would recommend Hampshire Court primarily for group spa breaks and hen parties. The spa pool is big, and although the sauna and steam room aren’t huge it would work well as some people can use those while others are having treatments. Crucially, it has a lot of rooms so it’s perfect from that point of view, and there’s a lovely bar area to congregate in at the end of the day.

Customer Service Advisor, Emma, tells us about Old Thorns Golf and Country Estate, Hampshire

What did you do on your spa break?

Six of us went on a party night package, which is wonderful for birthday celebrations, hen parties and group spa breaks. It’s also a great alternative for office parties, especially at Christmas.

We stayed in one of their three-bedroom penthouse apartments, which was just incredible. We were given a glass of Prosecco on arrival, and once seated we tucked into a three-course dinner. Afterwards there was a disco, so we all had a few drinks and a dance.

We went back to the apartment and hung out in the living area before heading to sleep in the extremely comfy beds. When we woke in the morning we were greeted by fantastic views of the golf course. Breakfast was buffet style and offered cooked food items as well as Danish pastries, croissants and everything you would expect from a continental breakfast. We then had some time to use the spa facilities before our treatments, which was a wonderful way to unwind (and recover) after our evening ‘out’.

What was the best bit about the hotel?

I liked everything about it, but I think the apartments made it really special. The three-bedroom apartments are beautifully designed, I would happily live in one of them. They have great views and everything is brand new and high spec in the decor and soft furnishings.

Did anything surprise you?

The size of the hotel and grounds.  It’s a sprawling spa hotel and from the outside you would never guess how big it is. When we first wandered around it seemed a little confusing, but everywhere does tend to lead back to the main reception area so you shouldn’t get too lost!

What spa treatment did you have?

I had a Thalgo Illuminating Radiance Facial. My skin was glowing for the rest of the weekend.

Who would you recommend it to?

I would say it is great for everyone but particularly for group spa breaks. They have regular tribute nights and if the apartments are available, staying with friends in one of them is just perfect!

Spa Guru, Simone tells us about Ringwood Hall Hotel and Spa, Derbyshire

What did you do on your spa break?

When we arrived at this beautiful spa hotel we immediately headed to our rooms and got changed for dinner, and what a wonderful dinner it was.  We had canapes and a three-course meal, followed by leisurely drinks. It was the perfect way to start the weekend. The next day we had time to enjoy the spa.  The therapists recommend a particular route through the facilities to get the most from them, so we followed that. We spent lots of time in the salt room (which seems to work wonders for a hangover). Then small groups of us went to have our treatments at the same time. I had massage, which was classic and beautiful, and then we went and had Flowering Afternoon Tea, which really is the cherry on top.

What did you like most about the spa hotel?

The spa was quiet and tranquil, there was more than enough room for everyone even though there aren’t masses of facilities The hydropool is very much at the centre of it all and has more jets than you ever thought possible.  There are also two relaxation rooms. My favourite was the relaxation room where you are collected before your treatment because it was so peaceful. On top of all that, the food was insanely good. The cakes in the afternoon tea had candied flowers on them and were so pretty!

Did anything surprise you about the spa?

The size of the spa compared to what it looks like in the pictures really surprised me. Also one side of the salt room is glass and looks out onto the gardens, so you are warm but feel like you are outside, which is really magic, especially in the winter.  

What spa treatment did you have?

A massage, which they personalised for me by getting me to choose the essential oils and when the massage was too light my therapist changed adjusted it at my request.

Who would you recommend it to?

To be honest, I would definitely recommend it to everyone. Groups, couples, mums and daughters - I don’t think there’s anyone who wouldn’t have a lovely time here.