Spa of the Month

We arrived in a state of typical mother, daughter edgy tension. But the moment we turned into Chewton Glen’s sweeping drive, past the rolling lawns and glistening lake, a sense of calm descended on us.

The warm staff welcome was so heartening we couldn’t help smiling. And what with our car whisked away, coats taken, and before long even our dirty boots polished to perfection, we gave ourselves up to the weekend break like docile lambs.

The privately owned 18th Century hotel is on the edge of the New Forest, just a short walk to the beach and spectacular sea views. Our Poacher suite had a sitting room, study, double bedroom and bathroom. Just the kind of extraordinary space needed for any eventuality between mothers and daughters.

But I have to say, as Lara and I drifted off to our first spa treatment down the elegant, red carpeted corridors, we had miraculously started to agree on things and enjoy each other’s company.

The hotel blends seamlessly into the spa, with its softly lit reception area and beyond that the centre piece - 17.5 metre, classically styled, ozone treated, indoor pool.

Whatever your aches and pains, the Roman-themed hydrotherapy pool is bound to give relief, with six different water jets of varying pressure and positioning. There’s even an open air whirlpool which we braved in freezing temperatures because, what the heck, we were feeling better all the time.

There are so many options you barely notice time passing as you float  from aromatherapy sauna, to crystal steam room, another swim in the glorious pool, deliciously healthy lunch in the café overlooking the pool, and oh yes, let’s not forget the 50 exclusive treatment options, of course.

Lara decided on an Haute Couture Facial and says, “From start to finish it was complete bliss. I sank into a state of deep relaxation with the steam mask and head and shoulders massage. Afterwards, I looked in the mirror at a changed face. My skin was so clear from the Linda Meredith products. Not a blemish in sight. “

Testimony indeed. My own larch and beech anti-ageing facial, and full body massage with mud wrap and salt scrub, were utterly relaxing and made my skin glow like a burnished lamp.

Chewton Glen is a dreamy weekend retreat, where everything feels like an occasion to be lingered over and appreciated, from the lavish afternoon teas beside the log fire, to breakfast in the conservatory overlooking the lawns.  For the more energetic there’s a golf course, tennis academy and signature croquet lawn.

The staff-to-guest ratio of two to one means that you’re effortlessly carried along, with everything done for you.

And when that horrible time to leave is upon you, you’re waved off with bottles of champagne, chocolates and a detailed map.

Oh what a rude bump it is when you stagger into the house and there’s that long-forgotten question, what are you making for dinner?

For more information visit www.chewtonglen.com

By Sharon Feinstein