With the busy festive period approaching fast, it can be tricky to find a moment to breathe. Carve out some me-time this winter with these rejuvenating retreats and spa breaks.
Words: Lily Smith. Images: Various brands.
Create your perfect retreat
What: Build Your Own Retreat at Quinta Carvalhas (above)
Where: Santarém, Portugal
When: Ongoing offer
Price: From €720 for a three-night retreat
Website: quintacarvalhas.com
Immerse yourself in a serene oasis of tranquillity with a private and personalised stay at Quinta Carvalhas, situated in the historic Ribatejo region of Portugal. Described as providing the service of a top hotel with the feel of your favourite aunt’s country house, this family-run luxury retreat centre, also known as The Green Farm, offers a peaceful space for self-restoration, whether you need a break from cooking, cleaning, your job or just the busyness of day-to-day life.
Your private retreat includes luxury accommodation alongside a daily menu of vegetarian meals. You can then pick and choose whichever activities appeal to you, whether that’s a dip in the saltwater pool, a holistic massage, yoga, meditation and sound healing sessions, horse interaction and equine therapy, or art expression workshops. You could even spend an afternoon curled up in front of the fire with a good book – the choice is completely yours.
Escape to the Highlands
What: The Highland Club
Where: Loch Ness, Highlands of Scotland
When: Ongoing offer
Price: From £300 per night
Website: thehighlandclub.co.uk
Located on the southern tip of Loch Ness, this award-winning self-catering destination is set in 23 acres of stunning grounds within the beautiful Fort Augustus Abbey. Comprising 109 self-catering apartments and cottages (some complete with private rooftop terraces), a stay here promises a luxury holiday experience – complete with dramatic castle-like architecture inside and out – alongside the freedom, privacy and relaxation associated with self-catering.
Stay snuggled up in your cosy accommodation, make use of the on-site spa and fitness facilities, or wrap up warm and explore the winter wonderland on your doorstep. The small, friendly village of Fort Augustus is home to several shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants, all within walking distance. Or board a Loch Ness boat tour and see if you can spot Nessie! While you’re free to hide away in peaceful seclusion, there is an exclusive on-site reception where you can book activities or help yourself to complimentary fruit, drinks, and snacks throughout the day.
Plus, if you’re looking for a break from self-catering, The Boathouse restaurant, situated within the grounds, offers tasty meals and spectacular views of Loch Ness.
Indulge in head-to-toe pampering
What: Relax & Revive Spa Break at Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat
Where: Moddershall, Staffordshire
When: Ongoing offer
Price: From £262.50 per person
Website: moddershalloaks.com
Nestled in the picturesque Staffordshire countryside, Moddershall Oaks Country Spa Retreat offers a blissful escape with its new restorative spa break. Following a welcome drink on arrival, indulge in a personalised 50-minute treatment followed by a rejuvenating 25-minute mini treatment of your choice.
After spending the afternoon in the spa, you’ll be treated to a delectable two-course dinner at The Oak House restaurant. Once you’ve wined and dined, relax in the comfort of a luxury suite before waking up to a freshly cooked breakfast. You can also enjoy full access to the spa, wellness, and fitness facilities throughout your stay, or head outdoors for a stroll through the serene countryside.
Enjoy sunsets at the spa
What: Spa Breaks at The Quay Hotel & Spa
Where: Conwy, Wales
When: Ongoing offer
Price: Sanctuary Morning Package £149 per person; overnight stays start from £129
Website: quayhotel.co.uk
Located near the Snowdonia National Park, which comes alive with fiery red foliage in autumn and winter, The Quay Hotel and Spa is the ideal place to relax and unwind. Following a £1 million renovation, the hotel’s new spa has been designed with recovery in mind – perfect after roaming the national parks and nearby towns of Llandudno and Conwy.
The spa comprises a relaxing wellness thermal area, centred around a large swimming pool and adjoining vitality pool, which is surrounded by comfortable day beds and heated seats to lounge on throughout the day. The wellness suite is made up of a Himalayan salt sauna, infrared sauna, and an aromatic steam room, as well as a traditional sauna.
In the evenings, guests can enjoy some of the most spectacular sunsets at the Cove Bar. If you’re in need of a mini winter getaway, the Sanctuary Morning Package includes full access to the Wellness area, a 50-minute spa treatment, and a slap-up brunch. You can also upgrade your escape with an overnight stay in a cosy room, complete with views of the estuary.
For more retreats and travel, tap here!
