SPAS
B
ath is, of course, rather famous for its spas. It’s what most tourists do when they come here. But it sometimes feels like it’s so obvious, so quintessentially Bath, that we, as residents, actually forget to go to them, which is something of a shame. And they’ve progressed a lot over the years. Forget grating rainforest-sounds humming out of a tired CD player – these days you’re looking at tailor-made treatments designed to suit your specific needs and desires, whether you’ve got a dodgy knee, are seven months pregnant, are going through chemotherapy, or just want some time out from your busy life. Here’s a snapshot of what’s on offer locally to soothe both mind and body.
SPA VILLAGE AT THE GAINSBOROUGH
Beau Street, Bath In a lava shell: Spa Village is set beneath a glass atrium in the heart of The Gainsborough Hotel and is famous for its natural thermal waters. Guests can expect three natural thermal baths, 11 treatment rooms, an aromatic steam room, ice chamber, infrared and traditional saunas, a relaxation terrace and a fully equipped gymnasium. What’s unique about it? Your average spa, this is not. It stands over an old Roman Bath House and contains a replica of a 4th century Roman mosaic. The thermal waters which guests can bathe in today fell as rain 10,000 years ago, and contain over 42 minerals, which provide a range of therapeutic benefits. Any special treatments? Why not opt for the Magnesium Remineraliser, a body scrub, massage and warm cocooned wrap? “The magnesium is responsible for promoting energy levels, sleep, circulation, metabolism and muscle movement,” says Peter Rollins, director of marketing and communications at the Gainsborough.“This relaxing therapeutic treatment helps to replenish commonly deficient levels. Body tissues relax and pores take in the vital minerals from the products.” www.thegainsboroughbathspa.co.uk
THE SPA AT WOOLLEY GRANGE
Woolley Green, Bradford on Avon In a lava shell: Set within the walled garden at the hotel, this is a mecca for all those in need of some downtime. Facilities include a sauna and steam room, heated indoor and (during friendly seasons) outdoor pool, beautiful 14-acre gardens, and a relaxing hang-out area, decked out with comfy sofas where you can enjoy assorted drinks and refreshments.
58 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk
Release your inner mermaid in the pool at The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa
“Bucking the trend for adult-only spas, Woolley Grange is very family orientated” What’s so great about it? “The location is idyllic,” says marketing manager Caroline Mackay. “Take a walk around and see fresh flowers and produce growing, and the comical Indian runner ducks – who keep down the slugs and snails.” Or, if the weather’s not so great, enjoy a coffee in the panelled drawing room of this Jacobean manor. What special treatments do they offer? They’re big on skincare at The Spa at Woolley and offer Elemis luxury spa treatments – they’re famous for their anti-aging products – and Jessica Cosmetics nail treatments. Anything for the kids? Bucking the trend for adult-only spas, Woolley Grange is actually very family orientated. Children can use the pools and spa facilities – they even offer mini me treatments, if you actually think your kids are worth it – or, if you have young children in tow, they have an Ofsted registered crèche on site, aptly called Woolley Bears Den, which offers two hours of childcare. www.woolleygrangehotel.co.uk
THE GARDEN SPA BY L’OCCITANE AT THE BATH PRIORY HOTEL
Weston Road, Bath In a lava shell: This award-winning spa has four luxurious treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, indoor pool, pool-side sauna, elliptical steam pod and shower, and a heated outdoor pool, set within the hotel’s four acres of beautiful gardens. It’s also the first and only L’Occitane Spa in the UK. What’s on offer: Expect a full range of luxurious treatments, from facials, body massages, body scrubs and wraps, to mini treatments, manicures and pedicures, alongside holistic and beauty treatments. What’s so special about a L’Occitane Spa? “Guests at the spa are invited to enjoy the facilities of the hotel, including its world class restaurant in which to enjoy lunch, afternoon tea or a drink, either on the terrace in sunnier months, or beside a roaring open fire in one of the hotel’s lounges in colder times,” says spa manager Sam Teifal. “Slightly less exciting, perhaps – but always appreciated – is that we’re one of the very few spas in Bath to offer our guests complimentary parking in our car park, which eases arrival and departure and maintains the wonderful feeling of calm!” Any special treatments? “The spa’s signature treatment is a Verbena Relaxing Massage, featuring one of L’Occitane’s emblematic ingredients, the aromatic