You may have noticed that we have been a bit quiet lately while we’ve been putting together our latest issue of Travel Dine Relax.
Since we launched the magazine in 2020, we’ve been overwhelmed by the feedback from our readers and we hope that our Spring issue doesn’t disappoint.
Jam packed full of ideas of where to visit, things to do and places to dine along with some inspiring interviews with two talented chefs, there’s something for everyone. So sit back and enjoy the journey.
Anantara Chiang Mai Resort Revives Ancient Northern Thai Healing Practices for the Body and Soul
Reviving Northern Thailand’s centuries-old massage and aromatherapy techniques, Anantara Chiang Mai Resort has introduced two rare therapeutic treatments, ‘Yam Khang’ and ‘Yajoo’, with long-standing historic roots connecting guests with the region’s rich Lanna heritage.
‘Yam Khang’ or Thai Fire Therapy is an ancient Lanna tradition, considered a sacred art where the therapist is required to have gained a high spiritual maturity. The treatment is done by using the feet only, which are first bathed into healing oil infused with mixed local herbs. The therapist then slips her foot onto an iron plough shear or ‘khang’ that has been heated over an open fire, then skillfully balanced, she massages the guest with one foot only.
With a strong tradition of rice cultivation, farming communities in northern Thailand have been using a cast-iron plough (khang) for centuries which is attributed with mythical properties whilst being an indispensable part of farming life.
The Yam Khang 60-minute treatment is priced at THB 4000. As the treatment uses an open fire, it is done outdoors next to Anantara Chiang Mai’s stunning pool on the banks of the Ping River.
The ‘Yajoo’ treatment utilises the local herb ‘plai’ healing powers to ease tension and deeply relax guests. The 90-minute treatment begins with heating a herbal poultice, giving off a fragrant aroma, which is then pressed along the body to ease pain and inflammation. A plai oil massage follows, ending with a light head massage and Tok Sen. Tok Sen involves a wooden hammer being tapped along your Sen energy line, relaxing the muscles, healing chronic pain, and improving the pathways of the nervous system.
Anantara Chiang Mai’s 90-minute Yajoo therapy starts at THB 3,500++ and includes: • Relaxing foot soak • Foot pressure therapy using tok sen wooden hammer • Application of a plai poultice, heated over an iron plate, to areas of concern • Full-body massage with plai oil using long, light strokes for deep penetration • Light head massage and tok sen back massage using a wooden hammer.
Jade Mountain, St Lucia, has announced that is will be offering its first ever Singlemoon Package for single travellers looking to indulge, recuperate and de-stress in the most breathtaking of surroundings. Following lockdowns, many people are craving time to themselves, to rediscover who they are after a turbulent two years, and there’s no better place to do this than with the backdrop of one of nature’s most impressive wonders. Jade Mountain has created this package to highlight the importance of celebrating oneself; and by embarking on this journey, guests will nurture the soul, focus purely on themselves and lift their mind and spirit.
This incredible experience is completely tailored to the specific individual, with no Singlemoon experience alike. Guests will stay in one of the stunning open-walled Jade Mountain Star Sanctuaries, which will leave guests speechless; with views of the Pitons and the lush Caribbean Sea, the private deck, infinity pool and chromotherapy whirlpool tub will be a place of ultimate relaxation for all guests. The package includes wellness consultations with professionals prior to the guests’ stay, health check-ins throughout, and carefully curated meal plans specific to the guests’ dietary requirements. The vast number of activities at Jade Mountain also allow guests to do as much or as little as they like, from experiencing thrilling activities such as kayaking, to taking a more relaxed approach by soothing their body in the chromatherapy whirlpool tub. Whatever guests choose, the focus will always be on them.
Image courtesy of Jade Mountain
The Singlemoon package is available as a 4- or 7-night experience and begins with a private airport transfer complete with Champagne on arrival from their very own Major-Domo, who will be on hand throughout the stay to ensure every need is catered for. From there, the activities on offer are endless: guests can indulge in a 90-minute bespoke full body massage and a manicure and pedicure to alleviate all the body’s stresses, or try their hand at mountain biking or scuba diving, soaking up the natural wonders of the island. Cooking classes are also available, where guests will be taught the main elements of traditional island cooking or hand craft their own chocolate at the Emerald Estate Laboratory. Whilst in such a breathtaking and tranquil location with no one else to distract them, guests are encouraged to use the time to calm the mind with Ayurvedic counselling, a traditional Indian system of medicine which aims to holistically balance the body; or guests can release their inner yogi with a private class.
As well as the new Singlemoon Package, Jade Mountain and its sister property, Anse Chastanet, have introduced new experiences such as the Creole Farm BBQ with Beer Tasting at their organic Emerald Farm. This experience celebrates the recently launched beer brewing onsite at Emerald Farm: a sustainable initiative that uses volcanic spring water to ensure the most organic brewed beer, using ingredients grown on site, such as tropical fruits, herbs and spices and the native bois bandé. Guests will be invited to an exclusive tasting on the farm, alongside a delicious traditional BBQ.
In addition, Jade Mountain has recently announced its new St Lucia’s Herbalist Experience. Located at the Emerald Estate. The healing herbal garden is a distinctive spiritual space that gives guests the opportunity to learn about indigenous traditions. The healing circle has been depicted as the “living tepee”, which has been made from the Moringa tree. Also known as the “tree of life”, this healing plant is medicinal and edible, and the Moringa tree creates a sheltered meditation space which, once the herbs and vines have flourished, will transform into a beautiful piece of art. This experience will teach guests how holistic treatments and indigenous herbal remedies can improve health issues.
Another new and indulgent experience is the Chocolate, Wine and Paradise tasting at Jade Mountain. Guests can embark on a spellbinding wine journey, where they will learn how to pair it with the Estate’s very own organic Emerald Chocolate. The cocoa beans have been fermented and sun dried to give them their outstanding quality, intenseness and flavour. The tasting will ultimately showcase the Nick Troubetzkoy Emerald Estate Chocolate brand in all its glory, combining it with the finest of wines for the most exotic and magnificent of experiences.
Singlemoon prices start from US$7,580 (£5,539) for a 4-night stay and $12,650 (£9,244) for a 7-night stay. Rates are subject to 10% service charge and 10% VAT.
Coppa Club has announced that their signature igloos are now available to book for the autumn and winter season in partnership with Champagne Laurent-Perrier. The igloos are available at five Coppa locations, including Tower Bridge – renowned for its panoramic London views, Sonning-on-Thames’ with its riverside setting, Cobham Village’s rooftop terrace and Brighton Square’s boutique location in the heart of The Lanes. The seasonal igloos will also be available at Coppa Club’s brand-new location, Putney, which is opening right on Putney’s riverside on 2nd November, featuring three iconic igloos.
Image courtesy of Coppa Club
Offering a unique twist on festive interiors this year, the igloos will feature a new and unseen, pastel design of green and pink florals & lanterns. The design evokes a vintage feel, with a gentle tone and warm, subtle lighting. Coppa Club’s igloos are the ideal destination for a celebratory get together this winter– perfect for friends, family, and work parties alike.
Each Coppa igloo will be serving a special menu – perfect for a bit of ‘igloo indulgence’ and paired with a glass of Champagne Laurent-Perrier– an exciting new partner for the Coppa brand. Specials include the truffled wagyu burger and decadent, warm chocolate fondant with caramelised white chocolate and salted caramel ice cream. A special Christmas menu will also be introduced towards the start of the festive season, where you can expect to find all your favourites – so keep your eyes peeled!
Image courtesy of Coppa Club
As part of Coppa’s home-from-home ethos, it offers the very best elements of a café, bar, restaurant and lounge – all combined into one setting that provides something for everyone. With nine separate locations currently found in the South-East & West of England, the brand has a private members’ club feel, without any members club fees. Each venue reflects its individual location and celebrates Britishness, alongside offering an informal, welcoming, and relaxed atmosphere.
Current Coppa locations include Tower Bridge, Clifton Village, which opened earlier this year, Cobham Village, Henley-On-Thames, Maidenhead, Brighton, as well as Streatley-on-Thames and Sonning-On-Thames, which both offer riverside hotel bedrooms. Coppa’s newest site, Putney, will be opening on 2nd November 2021, which will also feature three riverside igloos.
Now available to book at the brand new Putney location, as well as Tower Bridge, Sonning, Brighton and Cobham, Coppa Club igloos can be reserved in two hours slots, Monday to Sunday, 11 am until close for a maximum of eight guests. Christmas day igloo bookings at Sonning, Streatley & Cobham will go live on 20th October. Minimum spend applies.
The leading North East luxury resort reveals a brand-new restaurant will launch in August named ‘Nu Sana’ – ‘Nourish the Soul’- encapsulating the best of spa cuisine to accompany the award winning spa
Main image: Rockliffe Hall – Photography by Stan Seaton
Rockliffe Hall has announced a brand-new restaurant and dining concept will be launched in August named ‘Nu Sana’ (‘Nourish the Soul’), a casual eatery situated above the hotel’s award-winning spa. Nu Sana will offer a dining menu consisting of healthy, nutrition-led menu items such as superfood salads, smoothies, fresh juices alongside nourishing dishes and buddha bowls. In addition, there will be more indulgent choices to give guests the option of ‘everything in moderation’. With a strong emphasis on garden-to-plate, many of the dishes use ingredients from the estate or are grown within the kitchen garden.
Image courtesy of Rockliffe Hall
The design of the new spa restaurant focuses on celebrating the light-filled space, with attention to materials such as marble, timber and botanical essences. Whether dining indoors or on the alfresco terrace overlooking 375 acres of beautiful grounds, guests and spa day visitors will be welcome to dine ‘in robes’ to allow for ultimate comfort and relaxation. Nu Sana will be accompanied by the launch of new Spa Day experiences, which will also be available from 2nd August.
“We are delighted to share the news of our latest culinary outlet with our guests, Nu Sana will be a most welcome addition to our much-loved spa and an important part of the wellness journey we offer at the hotel. The menus will showcase something for everyone, and there will be an emphasis both on healthy, nourishing dishes in addition to appealing to those after something different to our already established restaurant options,” said Jason Adams, Managing Director of Rockliffe Hall.
The reimagined spa dining experience will further complement the recent elevated culinary options of the 3AA Rosette Orangery Restaurant and The Clubhouse – helmed by Executive Chef Ian Matfin. Born in Newcastle, Matfin is making a welcome return to his North East roots. With over 20 years of restaurant experience at Britain’s most distinguished culinary destinations, including Gordon Ramsay at Claridge’s and Aubergine in Chelsea, alongside Raymond Blanc’s Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Oxford.
Image courtesy of Rockliffe Hall
Breakfast and brunch menu highlights include Sautéed Wild Mushroom on Bruschetta with Sultanas, Seeds, Onion Purée and Nut-Free Pesto; Seven & Wye Smoked Salmon with Soft Poached Hen’s Eggs, Hollandaise & Brioche; and Buttermilk Pancakes with Summer Berry Compote, Greek Yoghurt and Manuka Honey.
Sample dishes on the all-day-dining menu include a selection of small plates such as Asparagus, Romanesco Sauce, Egg Yolk Dressing & Sorrel; and Laverstoke Park Buffalo Mozzarella, Plum Vine Tomatoes and Basil dressed in Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The signature Buddha Bowls provide an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians; meanwhile, some large plates include Grilled Sea Bream, Shiitake Mushroom, Beansprout and Mangetout; Flat Iron Steak with Confit Tomato and Chimichurri; and Poached Salmon Salad Niçoise.
Nu Sana will be open for members, hotel guests and locals, with reservations systems opening at the end of June.
Food will be served all day from 8 am until 5.30 pm, plus 7 pm – 9.30 pm on Friday & Saturday evenings.
AIRE Ancient Baths reveals the launch of its first property in London, centrally located near to Covent Garden in summer 2021, in time for when the UK restrictions are lifted and a sense of freedom returns.
Inspired by the tradition of bathing in Ancient Greek, Roman and Ottoman civilisations, AIRE Ancient Baths London reimagines the classic tradition of the thermal baths in a contemporary fashion. AIRE offers unique relaxation experiences, providing massages and luxurious rituals all whilst maintaining the essence of its original wellness concept.
AIRE experiences are world-renowned and take place in restored historical buildings in outstanding cities and locations across the globe such as New York, Barcelona, and now London.
The space: a historic location from the XVIII century
AIRE Ancient Baths London will be a tranquil oasis for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London life, situated within a few minutes’ walk of some of London’s greatest landmarks, Trafalgar Square and Covent Garden.
The company has chosen an emblematic historic building in no 2-3 Robert Street. Between the Strand, Victoria Embankment Garden and Charing Cross lies Adelphi, where Robert Street is located. The area as we know it today is the legacy of the XVIII century’s most renowned architect siblings, the Adam brothers. The name ‘Adelphi’ is Greek for ‘siblings’ and is indicative of the brothers’ collaboration in designing the new area. Famed for their elegant, neoclassical influenced constructions that were inspired by the Grand Tour travels of Robert Adam, their work defined the riverside area making Adelphi an ideal setting.
As time went on, the building became the place where Scottish novelist and playwright J.M. Barrie would live, best remembered as writer of Peter Pan.
Image courtesy of AIRE Ancient Baths
Wellness experiences: a luxurious temple dedicated to relaxation with signature rituals
AIRE Ancient Baths is inspired by the Greek, Roman and Ottoman legacy of baths and relaxation through the water. Visitors can look forward to unwinding in various thermal baths with varying temperatures, massages, and exceptional wellness experiences.
The temple has been designed with the sole purpose of creating absolute ease, calm and balance of both body and mind with 14.000 sq. ft (1.300m2) of area. Guests will embark on an unforgettable journey of sensations through the contrasts between the warm water bath of the Tepidarium (36o), the Caldarium (40o) and the cold of the Frigidarium (14o) besides the mythical steam bath or Vaporium, the bath of thousand jets or Balneum and the glorious salt bath or Flotarium; the best place to truly let go and submit to the magical feeling of floating. All massage treatments include the experience in the Ancient thermal baths.
Pure silence, the dim light of dozens of candles and the velvety whisper of soothing melodies that can even be heard under the water are key elements of the AIRE Experience, as well as its exclusive relaxing body massages and sophisticated rituals. Signature experiences that will be offered in the London property include:
The Himalayan Salt Experience
The Himalayan Salt Experience is a rejuvenating body treatment. This three-hour signature experience combines the Ancient Thermal Bath circuit, the Himalayan body scrub and a relaxing 60-min body massage with hot Himalayan salt stones. The pure pink salt has detoxifying, energising and stress-relieving properties and is created in the remote Himalayan mountains. Prices from £270 pp.
The Wine Ritual
The Wine Ritual is a unique relaxing experience where visitors are completely submerged in the antioxidant properties of the Spanish Ribera del Duero red grapes. The three-hour experience includes a private immersion into red wine in a historical tub, a grape seed oil massage and the Ancient Thermal Bath Experience. Prices from £450 pp.
The story: a company with international presence and Spanish roots
As soon as guests enter AIRE Ancient Baths London, they are met with the beautiful scent of orange blossom to transport them to the heart of Andalucía. The first location for the company was the city of Sevilla in 2004 and AIRE’s founders aim to connect visitors with these Spanish roots.
Amadeo Serra, CEO of AIRE Ancient Baths: “The idea to create AIRE Ancient Baths was born in Sevilla almost twenty years ago with the objective of recuperating an ancient tradition that had been lost throughout the centuries. We are very excited about opening a new AIRE in London, one of the leading cities in the world. We believe we have found the perfect location, right in the heart of central London, an area recognised on a worldwide scale for its culture, architecture, and history. We are confident that AIRE Ancient Baths London will add a new proposition for Londoners and visitors to UK capital, and become a place of reference for those seeking luxury indulgence, rest and relaxation”.
The company has an international presence with seven established spa centres and the soon-to-open London property in summer 2021.
North Cornwall Eco spa hotel, The Scarlet has announced their brand new Winter Wellness package, offering a perfect spa escape as the darker and cooler days draw in.
The Winter Wellness break consists of a two night break aimed at discovering the sensory contrasts of winter. While it may be getting colder outside, the Scarlet’s clifftop sauna takes on a new magic during the colder months. A contrast between the outside crisp, coastal wind and the comforting warmth of the sauna adds a special textural twist for guests.
Images courtesy of The Scarlet
The break includes full use of the indoor and outdoor pools, yoga and spa classes and a short journey cocooned in one of the Scarlet’s tented treatment rooms. One of the Scarlet therapists will slowly guide you through a personalised treatment, before leaving you to hibernate in a suspended cocoon pod.
Nothing returns you to the body quite like a sudden rush of flavour so included in the Winter Wellness package is a night’s three-course dining at the Scarlet Restaurant. Enjoy two lazy mornings waking to the sound of the surf with a sea view room and take home the essence of the Scarlet with a NEOM Organics Happiness Diffuser.
Included in your stay:
Two nights of sound sea-air sleep in a sea-view room
Warm up and wind down in the spa (including use of indoor and outdoor pools, barrel cedar sauna and steam room)
Entry to the Scarlet’s diverse yoga and spa classes
A three-course evening meal of Cornwall’s deep winter flavours at the Scarlet Restaurant
Find rebalance with a Short Journey in a luxury tented treatment room, gently lit by lanterns
Take the essence of the Scarlet home with a specially selected Happiness Diffuser from NEOM Organics (worth £38)
The Scarlet Spa is open, but is working in a different way to keep everyone safe. Elements of the spa now need to be reserved once you’ve arrived at the Scarlet. For full details pop over to their dedicated Covid-19 update page for the latest information.
Available from 30th November 2020 to 1st March 2021 (excluding Christmas, Valentines and school holidays). Breaks start from £799.00 for two people or £649.00 for a solo traveller, based on a two-night stay in a Just Right sea-view rooms.
The latest phase in the development of the world-class spa at Chewton Glen was unveiled at the end of July. Anita Rosato and her team have created a design that has transformed the spa, giving it an ambience that befits the award-winning leisure facility that is Chewton Glen.
At the heart of Chewton Glen’s spa is a fabulous 17 metre indoor pool. Flooded with natural light, Anita’s interior design scheme incorporates elegant new wall murals which hint at the hotel’s countryside location. New tiling reflects the refreshed colour scheme, with muted colours encouraging relaxation, and new pool furniture offering the ultimate in spa day comfort.
Chewton Glen
In addition to the physical transformation of the spa, the new space will debut a new spa treatment menu which includes two alfresco treehouse treatments. The ‘stripped back’ spa menu – the first of its kind in the UK – has taken a ‘less is more approach’ that will see therapists create fully bespoke treatments for guests. Guests will be able to select a treatment which will be fully individualised to include Oskia facials, warm oil massages, and recovery-based body treatments.
From the indoor pool, guests can enjoy the stunning setting of the hydrotherapy spa, which takes the ancient tradition of the ‘water cure’ and offers it in a luxurious modern setting. The spacious pool has six hi-tech therapy options: an ‘air-tub’, which provides an all-over bubbly Jacuzzi-like effect; an ‘air bench’, that softly massage your body while you are seated; powerful body jets, used to target specific muscles and joints; 60 ‘pin prick’ jets, which provide a deep lower body massage; blissfully relaxing air loungers, for ergonomically controlled, therapeutic body massages; and a central pool offering neck and shoulder massages of varying pressure. Anita’s design breathes a new lease of life into the hydrotherapy spa.
In addition to the water-based activities, the design team have also refreshed the changing room facilities, introducing new colour schemes and lockers. The relaxed setting of the Pool Bar restaurant, the perfect place to relax with friends and family, has received a summer face lift in addition to delicious new healthy menus.
The latest phase in the development of the world-class spa at Chewton Glen will be unveiled on the 25th July. Anita Rosato and her team have created a design that has transformed the spa, giving it an ambience that befits the award-winning leisure facility that is Chewton Glen.
At the heart of Chewton Glen’s spa is a fabulous 17 metre indoor pool. Flooded with natural light, Anita’s interior design scheme incorporates elegant new wall murals which hint at the hotel’s countryside location. New tiling reflects the refreshed colour scheme, with muted colours encouraging relaxation, and new pool furniture offering the ultimate in spa day comfort.
In addition to the physical transformation of the spa, the new space will debut a new spa treatment menu which includes two alfresco treehouse treatments. The ‘stripped back’ spa menu – the first of its kind in the UK – has taken a ‘less is more approach’ that will see therapists create fully bespoke treatments for guests. Guests will be able to select a treatment which will be fully individualised to include Oskia facials, warm oil massages, and recovery-based body treatments.
From the indoor pool, guests can enjoy the stunning setting of the hydrotherapy spa, which takes the ancient tradition of the ‘water cure’ and offers it in a luxurious modern setting. The spacious pool has six hi-tech therapy options: an ‘air-tub’, which provides an all-over bubbly Jacuzzi-like effect; an ‘air bench’, that softly massage your body while you are seated; powerful body jets, used to target specific muscles and joints; 60 ‘pin prick’ jets, which provide a deep lower body massage; blissfully relaxing air loungers, for ergonomically controlled, therapeutic body massages; and a central pool offering neck and shoulder massages of varying pressure. Anita’s design breathes a new lease of life into the hydrotherapy spa.
In addition to the water-based activities, the design team have also refreshed the changing room facilities, introducing new colour schemes and lockers. The relaxed setting of the Pool Bar restaurant, the perfect place to relax with friends and family, has received a summer face lift in addition to delicious new healthy menus.
Commenting on the transformation of the spa facilities at Chewton Glen, Kerry Hudson, Spa Director of Iconic Luxury Hotels said: “When we first opened our spa at Chewton Glen back in 1990, we were one of the first, if not the first, luxury country house hotel to design and build a purpose-built spa. Now a hotel without a spa is consider unusual and surprising. My team and I are delighted that Chewton Glen continues to lead the way in the provision of excellent spa facilities for all of our guests, whether staying overnight, or visiting for the day. If there was ever a time for self-care it is now, and the health and safety for our guests and staff remains the first priority. The new facilities will provide our Spa Members with a fabulous environment in which to continue to enjoy the numerous benefits of membership of the Chewton Glen Spa. By their very nature, spas have always had extremely strict hygiene protocols, so this is already an inbuilt part of the way we work but while existing protocols will remain in place, there are also going to be additional updates and extra precautions taken to protect the wellbeing of both guests and therapists. It is undoubtedly a testament to the energy, passion and creativity of the entire team at Chewton Glen and the investment and commitment of our ownership, that we are focused on continually improving and innovating”.
Grand Hotel Kronenhof (www.kronenhof.com) has found the perfect solution to ease all the anxiety generated by the Covid-19 pandemic: it has created outdoor spa platforms for the summer 2020 season that are perfect for socially-distanced yoga, Pilates and meditation classes.
Image: Grand Hotel Kronenhof – Outdoor spa platforms
The four wooden platforms, which have been assembled on slightly different levels on the slope that leads from the Grand Hotel Kronenhof gardens down to the Flaz river, add another level of seclusion for yogis while making the most of the calm-instilling Engadine Valley panorama: the glistening Val Roseg glacier is clearly visible to the south while the beautiful Staz forest lies directly in front, the other side of the Flaz.
This means classes, which are provided on a complimentary basis by the hotel as part of its daily wellness programme (that also includes aqua aerobics, TRX Workout and more), are accompanied by the gentle rumblings of the river below and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers, creating the most idyllic environment for a relaxing wellness session.
The yoga platforms build on Grand Hotel Kronenhof’s already well-established focus on wellness in the great outdoors. In addition to some of the more obvious activities on offer in the Swiss Alps, such as hiking, mountain biking, stand-up paddling and wild swimming, the hotel has incorporated goat yoga, whey baths and forest bathing into its repertoire in recent years, making it the obvious choice for those who want to get out into the open, away from it all and simply switch off.
Image: Grand Hotel Kronenhof (www.kronenhof.com)
Grand Hotel Kronenhof summer rates start from CHF455 (approx. £390) for two people sharing a double room on a half-board basis. Alternatively, upgrade to a “Suite Summer Deal” from CHF599 (approx. £515) for two people sharing a Suite on a B&B basis. Both rates include unlimited access to the Kronenhof Spa, Kulm Golf and Kulm tennis courts, as well as unlimited use of all the mountain railways in the Engadine and St Moritz area. Book online at www.kronenhof.com or call +41 81 830 3030. Grand Hotel Kronenhof closes on 18 October 2020.
Image: The new Aqua Club development at The Headland Hotel
The Headland in Cornwall, UK, is to open a new £10 million ($13 million) wellbeing experience called The Aqua Club for 2020.
Located in Newquay, on the north coast of one of the UK’s most beautiful counties, The Headland offers five-star hotel and self-catering accommodation in a stunning coastal setting.
The Aqua Club represents a significant investment in the development of The Headland as a luxury, world-class destination and will feature five swimming pools, including a 25-meter training pool, an infinity pool, and a family leisure pool, as well as a sun terrace with impressive ocean views.
A restaurant, called The Deck, will connect the inside and outdoor spaces, and will provide a welcome oasis of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
For overseas visitors, Cornwall has never been easier to include in a UK tour. Managing director of The Headland, Darryl Reburn, says: “We are ten minutes from Cornwall Airport, Newquay, which is served by daily flights from London and Dublin, as well as many other major cities in England and Scotland.”
The Headland Hotel overlooking Fistral Beach in Newquay
The Headland is set on a peninsula overlooking the surfer’s paradise, Fistral Beach. With a spa, a five-pool leisure complex, a surf school, and three restaurants, there is plenty to keep vacationers busy.
Constructed at the end of the Victorian era, the hotel is famous as the location for the original The Witches film, and is close to filming locations for the popular Poldark TV series as well as Doc Martin.
It has a rich history, from causing local riots when it was first built, to becoming a military hospital during WWII. There are also tales of hauntings, and stories of visits from celebrities and royal guests.
Cornwall is the UK’s most south-westerly county and is one of the most popular destinations for British holidaymakers. Accessible by air, rail and road, it has one of the most varied and beautiful coastlines to explore, with more than 300 beaches to choose from.
For the active traveller, the South West Coast Path covers more than 250 miles of spectacular scenery, and can be accessed from the doorstep of The Headland.
The region is also famous for its artisan produce and top chefs. TV celebrity chef Rick Stein has a restaurant nearby at Fistral Beach, and The Headland’s own executive chef presides over three restaurants serving award-winning food.
For a quintessentially British experience, guests can start the day with a full English breakfast with sausage, bacon and egg, all sourced locally, before exploring the beach, Newquay town, and its surrounding area.
Afternoon tea at The Headland Hotel
Guests can also make a reservation to experience The Headland’s impressive three-tier afternoon tea, which includes Cornish scones, jam, and clotted cream.
Darryl Reburn said: “Our afternoon tea at The Terrace has been voted as one of the best in the UK. With the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, it is a beautiful place to relax, drink tea, and work your way through dainty sandwiches, scones, and a selection of sweet treats.”
Prices for a three-night break at The Headland, including breakfast, start from £420/$546* for a Coastal Room with sea views – based on two people sharing. Use of the hotel’s spa facilities, gym, and Aqua Club are included.
Looking to float away the weeks worries or take some time out to relax and contemplate? The brand new float centre has now opened on Old Street, Shoreditch, East London.
For those who haven’t tried floatation therapy it involves letting your body float in a pod of body-temperature saline water with no interruptions from external light or sound. This has been shown to help reduce levels of stress hormones while boosting the feel-good hormones such as dopamine and endorphins associated with improving sleep, relaxation, pain relief and fast recovery from illness.
Company founder Tom Euinton, said, “After struggling with sleep apnea and insomnia for a long time, I received profound rest from floating that helped provide the deep recovery I wasn’t getting from sleep. Up to 50% of people in the UK suffer from insomnia at least once a week, and it has since been my aim to bring the best floatation therapy and support to those struggling with these conditions”.
The spacious pods at Float Hub are state of the art to provide the most immersive experience. Featuring 100% filtered saline solution, as well as blue light programming which mimics sunrise and sunset conditions, they promise to provide the best float therapy in London. As part of its holistic offering, Float Hub works in conjunction with sleep expert Dave Gibson to provide free consultations and create bespoke sleep programmes that improve sleep hygiene and well-being.