How to have the best spa staycation

Brunch has to be one of the hallmarks of relaxation. We think it’s the sheer indulgence of having woken up too late to have a regular breakfast (or perhaps like us you like to have both), and the knowledge that you can afford to spend the time stretching out the enjoyment to and through lunch. Brunch also has the best foodie combinations of breakfast and lunch. Needless to say, we see this joyful part of the spa experience as something to savour on a spa staycation.

UK spa gardens can be a magical place to spend time. So often we spend the holidays overseas and don’t get to experience enough time enjoying the beauty on our doorstep. Providing peace, tranquility and the healing powers of the great outdoors, a spa staycation is a good opportunity to explore the grounds and spa gardens of some of the best spa escapes.

Spas are not just about the spa treatments and spa facilities themselves. Many offer activities and experiences that we don’t always associate with a typical spa break. Some destinations include adventure activities such as Go Ape, but some extend the wellbeing experience in ways you might not have thought of before. Forest bathing or Nordic Walking might be worth a try while you’re in an environment that offers it. Or perhaps there’s a new sport that they offer that you have been wanting to have a go at. Maybe they even have a golf course and you have never tried your hand at it. Depending on where you go, there’s so much available to experience on a spa break - so why not take the opportunity while you’re there!

Sleep is such a big part of our wellbeing, and something so many of us struggle with, but a spa has all the tools to really help us get a good kip. For one, spa treatments, including massage, are an excellent way to relax the body and calm the mind, bringing you back into the moment and preparing you for a good sleep. We have definitely been known to nod off on the treatment table, which is just one of the reasons the soporific ambience of a good relaxation room holds so much appeal for us. Doze without a care in the world in the afternoon, and if you’re staying overnight, embrace the quiet and calm of a spa retreat knowing there’s no alarm to wake you in the morning.

Dressing up for dinner after a day of rest and relaxation is often a joyful part of a holiday. Feeling totally mellow at the end of the day, a spritz of perfume/cologne and an outfit that makes you feel like the best version of yourself is a wonderful way to end the day along with a sumptuous dinner of seasonal fare. On a spa break you can do just the same. Whether you’re after Michelin Star style or a relaxed pub-style atmosphere, many of the UK’s spas include exceptional restaurants as part of the experience. So you can have all that feel good factor of the ritual of dressing up after a day of rest and relaxation, and be treated to outstanding food.

Many spas have boutiques where you can purchase the products used in your treatments or find little gifts for yourself or your loved ones to continue the feel good factor at home. No luggage weight restrictions, no having to put your liquids in plastic bags to get through customs. Just pop those aromatherapy candles or a large bottle of your favourite body lotion in that bag of yours and take the self care experience home with you, hassle free.