TAKE ME WITH YOU?
Located in North Devon’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, The Woolacombe Bay Hotel is set in the seaside town of its namesake, famous for its award-winning three-mile stretch of sand and rolling Atlantic breakers.
Despite its mock-Tudor appearance, the 64-bedroom hotel is from the Victorian-era with original features including a striking double-height ceiling in the dining room with views across the immaculate sweep of sea-facing lawns. In contrast, the décor is fresh and modern, with statement wallpaper, black and white beach portraits, and a laid-back vibe.
SHALL WE SPA?
The Alchemist Spa can be found at the back of the hotel, past the quirky NEO cinema with its cosy sofas and plush armchairs.
On your left is an indoor pool lined with purple LED lights; look up at the reflective ceiling during leisurely laps or sink into one of several oversized loungers adorned with the comfiest grey pillows. The thermal suite is home to a bubbly hot tub, a toasty sauna, and large black and white-tiled steam room. You’ll find the large, airy reception and The Larder, serving complimentary tea and coffee (cocktails and Champagne can also be arranged), through a door from here.
On this floor, too, are the three compact yet stylish changing rooms – one for females, one for males and one for couples - complete with Temple Spa products, hair dryers and straighteners, and plenty of towels; you’ll find a soft grey robe and flip-flops inside the lockers. Past the changing rooms, at the back of the spa, you’ll find an oversized copper bath ideal for two and a private Rasul room complete with interesting muds.
Active spa-goers should head to SALT Gymnasia and sign up for a hardcore Versa Climber class – a high intensity upright workout with zero impact and one of the first of its kind to be found outside of London.
TREATMENT TALK
We tried a Gaia Jade Facial (60 minutes, £105).
Ellie, my charming therapist, met me in the spa’s own reception area and led me to one of four low-lit treatment rooms. Here, she talked me through the treatment and asked me to choose my preferred Gaia fragrance by smelling several oils with my eyes closed. I went for the final one which smelt fresh and light. Gaia’s Awakening Body Oil has plenty of citrus notes - including orange, tangerine, grapefruit and lemon - to awaken the mind and energise the body. Just what the Doctor ordered.
Once I was comfortably on the warm bed, Ellie began the facial with a cleanse using a light facial wash followed by the creamy cleansing balm. Balm removed, Ellie added a soothing face mask to hydrate the skin; while this worked, she massaged my arms and hands using my chosen oil.
Once my skin was clean and nourished, Ellie set to it with a moisturiser and some Jade wands – cooled pieces of Jade Gua Stone designed to improve lymph drainage and blood flow which, in turn, reduces puffiness, improves circulation and lifts the face. Finally, Ellie applied some eye cream and lip serum.
Ellie then led me to The Optimist, the spa’s relaxation room with four plush leather studded daybeds and parquet-effect flooring. While she fetched a pot of camomile tea and a pastry, I admired the statement pendant lighting and vintage prints of butterflies, plumes and bees adorning the walls.
HOW DID IT MEASURE UP?
I was feeling quite jaded (pun intended) before the treatment; afterwards my skin looked much brighter and the fine lines around my eyes much softer. My ‘hamster cheeks’ also appeared reduced, while my jawline looked firmer. I also felt very relaxed and ready for an evening out. Job done.
SPOT OF LUNCH?
For super-relaxed dining in a stylish but spacious setting, The Bay Brasserie and Bar delivers. Sink into one of the sofas in the bar for knock-out views over Woolacombe Bay. The lunch menu consisted of sandwiches, wraps, soups and salads. We went for a simple roast beef sandwich, while our spa partner opted for the fresh chicken and avocado salad.
Relaxed and dressed up we went back that evening for supper where we found the place buzzing with couples and small groups of diners. Wait staff - dressed in stripy waistcoats, long-sleeved white shirts and leather aprons to resemble traditional French brasserie staff - whisked around between tables chatting as they went.
We enjoyed a nicely cooked chicken breast served with a chicken leg stuffed with herbs and spinach topped with crispy skin. Our spa partner chose a very luxurious version of Mac ‘n’ Cheese which was poshed up with the addition of truffle oil and a confit chicken leg.
GOT ALL DAY?
Make a plan: you’ll need to get dressed for lunch in the Brasserie so build in a natural break. Spend an hour to two in the pool and thermal areas first, and then book the Rasul or the copper bath experience. After lunch, plan a treatment and a spell relaxing in The Optimist.
If you plan to stay over, book a sea view and watch the sun go down. The next day, take a brisk walk on the beach before enjoying a hearty breakfast.
SHORT ON TIME?
Dip into the pool and thermal area then book the copper bath with your beloved. Finish the day with afternoon tea.
Sybaritic Spy
1st October 2024
Spy Likes:
Warm treatment beds; fragrant steam rooms; therapists who listen to what you say; unexpected treats such as back massages that start with hot towels on your feet.
Spy Dislikes:
Small towels; crowded changing rooms; black mould in the showers; therapists who sniff; anyone who doesn't take my lavender allergy seriously - until I'm actually sick on them!
