January 2017 is the time to shake up your body and soul at an AA-recognised spa hotel. From tonal rain forest showers to aqua thermal journeys, Britain’s top spa facilities are offering an astonishing array of treatments and experiences to energise and revive each of the senses.
1) Sight: Stunning views of the Welsh coast and healing power of art
Where: St Brides Spa Hotel, Pembrokeshire
Overlooking the breath-taking cliffs and beaches of Pembrokeshire, St Brides Spa Hotel fully utilises the natural beauty of its location. Designed around the panoramic coastal view of Saundersfoot Harbour and Carmarthen Bay the magnificent landscape, sea and sky can be enjoyed from the hotel rooms and the infinity edge hydro pool. The hotel also showcases the paintings of Welsh artists and parts of the hotel double up as a contemporary art gallery often filled with vibrant paintings that explore the beauty of the local countryside.
2) Touch: Nothing feels as good as a self-heating lava shell massage
Where: Carbis Bay Hotel, Cornwall
In keeping with the hotel’s coastal location, Carbis Bay Spa offers treatments and remedies inspired by the sea. The lava shell massage uses the benefits of a hot stone massage in a new way. Self-heating tiger clam shells and porcelain shells are filled with lava, rock and iron granules that self-heat when left still and cool when being moved. Incredibly smooth to the touch, the shells are used to massage back and shoulders in continuous cycles to relieve pain and tension with gentle penetrating heat.
3) Taste: Fresh produce and Thai flavours
Where: The Kinmel, Abergele
Set in the tranquillity of North Wales, the Kinmel offers a wide array of pampering spa treatments complimented by the exotic flavours of far Eastern cuisine. Chiang Mai restaurant is headed up by top Thai Chef – Chatchai Jamjang from the Sakaeo Province of Thailand and he brings 28 years of culinary experience. He focusses on using locally sourced market products such a fresh fish and lean meat and combining them with distinctive Thai flavours such as mango, ginger and lemon grass.
4) Smell: Rose aromas for emotional healing
Where: The Landmark London, Marylebone
The Landmark London is a top luxury spot for ultimate pampering. The Landmark London Rose Garden is intensive therapy experience using the essence of flowers and plants in a concentrated formula with a highly active anti-stress action. Combining petals of the Gallic Rose and extracts of the Arctic Rose, Black Rose, White Rose and the Nepalese Rose, the skin is soothed, hydrated and nourished. During this treatment the natural scents of the various roses promote emotional well-being.
5) Hearing: The soothing sound of water
Where: Bryn Meadows, Golf Hotel and Spa, Caerphilly
This luxury boutique spa in Bryn Meadows offers spa facilities designed to promote balance and harmony. The soft lighting and the sounds of cascading water offer guests a tranquil soundtrack to relaxation. Guests can also splash in the indoor pool and immerse themselves in the heated bubbles of the hydrospa and jacuzzi.
For a full list of AA recognised hotels, restaurants and pubs visit theaa.com. The AA Hotel Guide 2017 is out now.
