As a wannabe twitcher, nothing beats looking out the window of a relaxation room in a post treatment haze and marvelling as birds fly past. A pair of binoculars to hand - and a book for identification purposes - only adds to the appeal. Indeed, whether its ducks waddling around a pond, rabbits hopping about a meadow or cows grazing in a field, being close to wildlife is – for this Spa Spy - the icing on the spa day cake. We’ve hunted down seven spas where wildlife is likely to make an appearance – cameras at the ready…
You’d be unfortunate not to spot the odd bird or two whilst staying in a treehouse – these tall things are, after all, where our feathered beauties create nests, keep their eggs warm and feed their young. The treehouses at Chewton Glen Hotel & Spa are as lofty as they are luxurious with wrap-around balconies - some with bubbling hot tubs perfect for twitching - large bedrooms with huge beds, cosy lounges with woodburning stoves, design-led bathrooms with roll-top tubs, and mini kitchens with fridges for that all-important fizz. Bring it on.
With minimal light, noise and air pollution, visitors to The Spa at Armathwaite Hall can inhale some of the freshest air in the country; conditions perfect for unwinding. It’s little surprise that wildlife makes a frequent appearance, too. To help guests spot as much as possible, the estate has developed an innovative wellness programme curated by holistic experts, including Forest Bathing, Scream Therapy, Animal Mindfulness and Wild Swimming. What can you expect to see, you may ask: well there's Bagot goats, Alpacas, several species of otters, barn owls, roe deer and brown hares, to name but a few.
Book one of five Orchard Cabins at the Congham Hall Hotel and not only will you stay in design-led, quirky comfort - with the most stunning apple orchard views (after which the accommodation is named) through full-height glass - but you’ll be able to sit on your own private deck and watch hundreds of birds fly by. Not sure what that was? Grab the bird watching book and pair of Binoculars from beside the bed and get spotting. Want to get closer? Fill the outdoor metal bath tub with piping-hot water and settle in.
The ducks waddling around at The Spa at Breedon Priory aren’t there by accident – or, indeed, lost – but are reared and raised on site (meaning they’ve probably got names, distinct personalities and obvious habits). Apiarists will love the fact that Breedon Priory has hives on site, too, with honey from the Temple Bees used in the kitchen and sold in the spa’s retail outlet. Take one of the attractive glass bottles home for a loved one – Christmas is around the corner, after all – or treat yourself after a spa day.
Set deep in the Lancashire countryside, The Ribble Valley is arguably one of the UK’s prize possessions when it comes to wildlife spotting, and The Stanley House Hotel & Spa has 54 acres of it. The spas' own natural pond (wild swimming here we come) is surrounded by local flora and fauna; the enchanted woods the perfect habitat for rabbits, deer and a host of birds. An inordinate amount of glass facilities fantastic views in the spa where plenty of colourful winged things and cute animals will make an appearance.
If guided walks are your thing, make a beeline for Ashford Castle, set beside the River Cong in The Emerald Isles. Many accompanied walks are included in hotel stays where wild birds make themselves a home. Early birds can book the 6.50am Dawn Chorus walk taking place every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday to identify some of the birdlife and rich biodiversity. Need a hearty breakfast first? Book the 8.30am daily Heritage Walk through the estate, the woods and nearby Cong Village to see the huge Heron population and roaming deer.
Stylish Spy
23rd October 2024
Spy Likes:
Minimalist lines; organic products; facial massage; tranquillity; interesting people-watching.
Spy Dislikes:
Discarded towels on loungers; steam rooms that aren't steamy; mobile phones.
