Anyone whose heart belongs to the ocean is going to love it at No Man’s Fort. This completely unique hotel, in a 150 year old fort in the middle of the Solent, is about character, luxury, style and creativity. It’s romantic, intriguing and part of Spabreaks.com’s luxury spa group – The Elysium Collection, celebrating unique destinations for all their individuality. Here’s what you need to know…

First impressions – arriving by boat 

No Man’s Fort is an adult-only hotel boasting unparalleled sea views and historic architectural details that tell the story of its past. The fort is located in the middle of the water, reachable only by private boat. So there is a sense of drama and ceremony as you arrive. One of three forts that were built as a defence against enemy attacks on the Solent and Portsmouth, it’s the only one to become a hotel, and as you approach, you’re greeted by 15ft granite walls and armour plating. It is breathtaking and electric.

Unique accommodation

Inside however, its 22 rooms and suites are beautifully styled with a nod to the nautical surroundings and sea views throughout. They are further brought to life by original details that have been left intact. There’s the odd hammock hook in the ceiling for example, as well as the opportunity to stay in the penthouse, which is in the original lighthouse and comes complete with two rooms and a wonderful vantage point to observe the sun deck.

A luxury spa 

The luxury spa offers one of the best views you could possibly ask for from a treatment room. With its circular shapes, you can see the sea as from every turn. It’s not a vast space, but very much an indulgent one, with carefully thought out luxury spa experiences. You also have access to the hot house experience, complete with an indoor fire pit and rooftop hot tub. There’s a sauna, games room and you have access to relax in the lighthouse suite whilst enjoying those panoramic views of the Solent. 

It doesn’t stop there

While you’re here you’re in a world of your own, but far from being marooned in the middle of the water, owners have really thought about turning the hotel into an experience. Perhaps you will enjoy absorbing the history alone, or maybe you fancy learning the art of sabrage – opening a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Champagne with a sword. You can also add to your spa time with the hot house experience, complete with an indoor fire pit and rooftop hot tub – especially if you add their Ration Kit including marshmallows, liquor and more.

Food and drink at sea

Dining at the hotel continues to offer a unique approach. There’s a lounge bar, cabaret bar, pub for post dinner drinks, and a fine dining restaurant for gourmet fare and afternoon tea. Once again, that rooftop fire pit makes an appearance, as a favourite way to while away the evening however, is to wrap up warm and head up for hot chocolate and stargazing at night.

The verdict: who would love No Man’s Fort?

Being a historic landmark, there’s really nothing quite like this hotel to compare it to, and they have managed to bring together past and present beautifully so that it’s not just about the location, but the added details they put into every package. An undeniably romantic luxury spa because of its unique and intimate setting, it’s also a great place to celebrate special occasions with small groups of friends with activities and intrigue for a memorable weekend. If you’re looking to celebrate a hen party or birthday, it’s definitely somewhere that will set the scene for memorable occasion.

Top tips for visiting No Man’s Fort

• For couples it’s obviously romantic, with opportunities to snuggle by the fire pit and drink hot chocolate or stay in a former lighthouse.  
• Then again, families and groups will enjoy the adventure of going on a high speed rib blast or a laser battle in the lower level labyrinth of the fort.
• Try learning the art of sabrage – opening a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Champagne with a sword.
• Definitely have a spa treatment as part of your spa experience.
• If you’re staying for a special occasion, it’s worth considering an upgrade to The Penthouse.