The Well Spa at Bluestone National Park Resort

Set within the family-friendly Bluestone Resort in Pembrokeshire, The Well Spa’s choice of thermal journeys (think First Timer, Detox, Tension Relief and Relax) are perfect for novices and seasoned spa-ers alike.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Nestled within the Bluestone Resort near Narberth, Pembrokeshire, The Well Spa sits a short walk from the car park, past the resort's café, play park and shops. We were welcomed at the manned barrier with a smile and a map, and told to expect “a wonderful afternoon”. The spa itself - set within a mustard-hued building - feels cosy and inviting; complimentary parking makes the whole arrival process effortless.

WHAT'S ON OFFER?

We were welcomed by Sarah and Kelly at reception, a bright, airy space decked in Mediterranean shades of turquoise and russet, with prominent ESPA branding throughout. After completing consultation cards, and receiving our robes, we made our way to the changing rooms - these are generously sized and split by a low dividing wall. First up: sinks, a couple of dark wicker sofas with gold and turquoise cushions, and a small vanity area kitted out with quality hairdryers, straighteners and full-size products. Lockers, 46 in total and finished in dark grey, are half-height and opened with a simple four-digit code; each contains a single wooden hanger for your clothes. Beyond the divide, three shower cubicles, one with wheelchair access, each stocked with unbranded wash, shampoo and conditioner. Three toilets complete the facilities.

At the top of the stairs, we found the Library and Meditation Lounge, the Spa Cwtch (Welsh for café) and the thermal area. A large ‘Spa Journeys’ guide on the wall was a brilliant touch, clearly explaining several routes to take through the facilities, be it First Timer, Relaxation, Detox and Tension Relief, along with recommended timings for each room. We opted for the Detox.

First on our route was the Salt Room, bathed in turquoise with bright yellow wicker chairs (in keeping with the spas palette) and a striking amethyst crystal centrepiece. From here, the Herbal Steam Room offered a soothing green glow and comfortably seats a dozen guests; the Ice Pod – with its blue mosaic tiles and constantly replenished crushed ice – felt wonderfully cave-like under low blue spotlights. The Celtic Sauna, large enough for twelve to fourteen, has two tiers of seating and a gentle green light, while the Marine Steam offers a more intense heat with benches arranged for extra privacy. Our favourite was the Brick Sauna: a warm red-orange glow, natural materials and curved seating for five or six.

Outside, the spa’s hydropool takes pride of place on a wooden deck lined with wicker loungers; there's also a further stretch of sunbeds and an outdoor terrace to enjoy. Back inside, the relaxation lounge and spa library offer plenty of quiet spots to unwind between treatments.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR TREATMENT

We tried the Celtic Combo (60 minutes, £75), combining a back and shoulder massage with a radiance facial.

My therapist, Hollie, collected me from the Cwtch and led me through to the treatment room where a wooden cabinet displayed body oils and a tray of coloured crystals. Hollie began with a warming foot ritual, placing two hot stones on a bathmat to help me ground before the treatment. She talked me through my skin and body concerns from my consultation card, then invited me to smell two oils so she could tailor the treatment to how I wanted to feel afterwards; we settled on Fitness, chosen for its energising, non-drowsy properties ahead of my drive home.

Using ingredients from ESPA’s Pro Optimal range, the facial began with a hydrating milk cleanser followed by a 3-in-1 cleanser, exfoliator and mask. While this worked its magic, Hollie performed a dreamy a scalp massage using ESPA’s hero product: Pink Hair and Scalp Mud, working methodically along key meridian points. Finishing products included serum, moisturiser containing an SPF and a lip balm.

Turning onto my front for part two, Hollie used long, flowing effleurage strokes for the back massage, using my chosen Fitness oil and focusing on the tension across my shoulders.

Afterwards, Hollie suggested using a muscle balm at home, and sent me off with a fabric hairband scented with a few drops of the Fitness oil – a lovely finishing touch. She also remembered that I was driving home that evening and wished me a safe journey.

The result? My skin felt hydrated and plumped; my shoulders noticeably looser.

FOOD FACTS

Guests can dine en-robe in The Cwtch, a light and airy spot with a wall of glass framing the outdoor vitality pool. A central table, dressed in eggshell blue, offered a self-service spread of teas, sugar and a bowl of tangerines and apples, with fresh magazines and a floral display completing the scene, while smaller salt lamps line the shelves below. Seating comes in the form of chaise lounges, bean bags or chairs, so you can settle in however you like. A self-service refreshment bar rounds things off nicely, with a coffee machine, hot and cold water, and lemon water served in reusable branded cups for sustainability purposes.

We tucked into afternoon tea which was served on a tiered stand with finger sandwiches of egg and cress, ham, cucumber and tuna on the bottom, alongside scones with strawberry jam and clotted cream; Bara Brith (Welsh bread) with butter and strawberry slices were placed in the middle; and Welsh cakes, profiteroles and lemon drizzle cake on the top. Our server, Alice, was attentive throughout, offering to box up anything we couldn't finish. Moist and full of flavour, the Bara Brith was a hit.

WE LOVED

The Spa Journeys’ guide: an inspired touch that made choosing between an impressive range of thermal rooms simple, even for spa novices.

The Celtic Combo: a thoughtfully tailored treatment, from the oil consultation through to Hollie's scalp massage and shoulder-focused back work.

The little touches: from the scented hairband to being wished a safe journey home, Hollie's attention to detail made the visit feel personal.

WHICH BUBBLE RATING DID YOU AWARD THIS SPA?

We awarded The Well Spa at Bluestone a Good Spa Guide Guide Bubble Rating of 5 Bubbles for its extensive thermal journey, thoughtfully tailored treatments, in-spa cafe and warm, personal touches.