Golf and spa may seem like unlikely bedfellows but - with many courses set in the grounds of spa estates - it's easy to combine the two. Some also offer treatments for golf-related stresses and strains, as well as packages for spa go-ers wishing to enjoy a round of golf (or vice-versa). Here’s our pick of best spas to tee off in; see you on the green.
The Spa at Carden
Tee off:
Golfers have two championship, award-winning courses to choose from at Carden, both offering dramatic views of the Cheshire Hills. Follow a round with a drink at Jack’s Bar; those looking for longer stays can book Golf & Spa packages.
Relax:
You’ll need a day or more to get round all that’s on offer at The Spa at Carden, with its vast spa garden dotted with pools of all shapes and sizes, large indoor pool, relaxation rooms, beauty bar and dedicated spa restaurant, Elements.
Kohler Waters Spa at the Old Course Hotel
Tee off:
Hosts of the British Open Championship for the 30th year running, St Andrews is no ordinary golf resort, with seven courses, a golf academy, five pro shops and three clubhouses attracting golfers from all over the world.
Relax:
The first Kohler Waters Spa outside the US focuses on the therapeutic benefits of water with treatments using mineral-rich aqua. There’s a 20-metre adult-only pool, rooftop hot tub with loungers, deep relaxation room and fitness centre, too.
The Spa at Fota Island
Tee off:
Three-time hosts of the Irish Open, all three courses at Fota Island (Deerpark, Belvelly and Barryscourt) are complemented by a clubhouse and a Golf Academy with strength and conditioning gym, personal trainer and coaching from PGA professionals.
Relax:
The wellbeing concept at Fota Island Spa focuses on energy restoration, holistic relaxation and pampering. Swim in the indoor pool, relax in the hydro pool, walk around the spa gardens, heat up in the thermal suite or work out in the gym.
Tee off:
Goodwood might be the home of motor racing but also does golf pretty well, with two 18-hole courses on site (The Park Course and The Downs Course). There's also a Swing Clinic for some pre-game advice and a stylish clubhouse, The Kennels (pictured).
Relax:
The wellness offering at Goodwood consists of a Health Club with 14-metre pool, sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and gym; a Spa with relaxation lounge and five treatment rooms; and a Wellness Retreat for targeted courses such as gut health.
The Spa at Glenagles
Tee off:
Three of Scotland's best golf courses reside at Gleneagles: the PGA Century Course, one-time host of the Ryder Cup; Kings Course, for bunkers and fairways; and Queens Course with its 68-par challenge. Dine, drink or lounge by an open fire in the clubhouse.
Relax:
The Spa at Gleneagles has separate gold and bronze wet facilities for men and women (sauna cabin, crystal steam, ice fountain), a unisex vitality pool and a leafy Garden Cafe (pictured). Treatments go beyond the norm - colon therapy anyone?
The Heritage Spa
Tee off:
Five lakes, 7,000 trees, 96 bunkers and a stream make up the 18-hole Ballesteros Course at The Heritage, designed by late Spanish golf pro Seve Ballesteros and South African road cyclist Jeff Howes. On-course drainage makes year-round play possible.
Relax:
The Heritage Spa embraces the spa journey with maps guiding spa-goers around the thermal suite from hot (steam bath, sauna, sanarium, caldarium, tepidarium) to cold (showers; ice fountain). Don't miss a swim in the indoor pool with its forest views.
Tee off:
Designed in 1978 on the banks of the River Ouse, the 18-hole golf course at Wyboston Lakes will test any player with water hazards and unpredictable winds creating tricky conditions, offset by spectacular lake views.
Relax:
The large outdoor hydro-pool, surrounded by stripy deck chairs, attracts spa-goers in their droves. The thermal rooms are spacious and impressive; the spa café a great spot for lunch. Treatments are courtesy of Neom, Elemis, Murad and Made for Life.
The Spa at Adare Manor
Tee off:
Redesigned by golf architect Tom Fazio to work in harmony with the estate’s rolling terrain, mature trees and River Maigue, the course at Adare Manor is set to host the 2027 Irish Ryder Cup. A jazz-age inspired clubhouse and a Pro Shop complement play.
Relax:
The first in Ireland to offer facials and body treatments from 111Spa/Clinic, The Spa at Adare Manor dares to be different. There’s an 8-metre indoor pool with vaulted sky light, private manicure and pedicure suites and a relaxation room with twinkly ceiling.
Stylish Spy
24th August 2022
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.
