I love a spa, it’s one of those places where I can really relax and forget about the outside world. That being said I am incredibly fussy, damn being a therapist, so It has to be top notch. Service, treatment, food, facilities, space etc. South Lodge for me have done really well and ticked the boxes for a great spa.
Spa Days
There are a couple of options here and really it’s down to how many treatments you’d like. They have always been really flexible and you can pay extra or the difference to swap from the treatment options. Spa days start at £245 Monday to Friday. At £245 you get full use of facilities, robe and flip flops, use of the gym and fitness classes (classes must be booked prior but there is a window). £40 to spend on and drink. Your treatment, there are lots to chose from but in general you are looking at an hours facial, bamboo massage, manicure or pedicure and so on. You can spend the whole day there.
Service and so on
The staff are all very friendly and attentive. I never find anything to be too much hassle. I always request treatment in the afternoon and this has always been accommodated. Your days itinerary including lunch and treatment times are given on the day and decided by the spa. I have always been happy with this. There are lovely touches such as juice shots and hot towels on arrival. The robes and towels are always new and fluffy. The spa is always clean but you don’t feel over run by cleaners, it’s all very subtle.
Facilities
They have a fair amount of facilities. If we are being really fussy you could argue a little hot tub would be nice, but realistically are they not annoying and over crowded. There is a larger bubble pool, with lie down beds, jets and so on. Large indoor infinity pool. Outside swimming pond, yes I said pond. It won’t be for everyone but even squeamish old me really loves a dip in there, it’s incredibly cold but so refreshing. Sauna, steam and an in-between one. Gym, classes, relaxation room, out door and indoor lounges and seating.
Treatments
Unless you upgrade the massage option is a bamboo massage, it’s really nice and the warmth of the sticks is comforting. I do prefer a hands on massage though so often pay the £20 to upgrade. I’ve never been let down by the massage and have had a different therapist each time. I have also tried one of the Omorovicza facials. It was lovely and I really love the products. I will say on this occasion I think something strange went on, I should have been charged extra and they told me there was no charge. I had found the steam was a little close for comfort, therefore at some points incredibly hot. I question if it was perhaps an agency therapist and we can all read between the lines there.. It was a lovely treatment though so certainly not one to be over looked.
I do find it hard as a therapist to go and really enjoy a treatment, but I genuinely come away from these feeling happy.
Food
Botanica is an absolute joy. It’s a beautiful restaurant and everything is pretty spot on. I especially love it during the warmer months when you can sit outside on the terrace and enjoy the sunshine and the views. The food is delicious and you have a big enough food allowance to be able to enjoy lots of the menu, especially if there are two of you. We often order a variety of plates and share things. They have great wine if you fancy a cold rose in the sunshine as well as lots of delicious juices, smoothies and soft drinks. The menu is dairy free but not meat free. I really love the food and think they have nailed it. I’ve been to several spa’s where the food is an after thought and this is so far from it. It’s a dedicated restaurant a team of food loving people.
Cute little touch you get some seeds with your bill.
Final Thoughts
I absolutely love South Lodge Spa every time I leave I can’t wait to go back again. The food, the treatments, the service and the little touches just make it. It never feels busy (although have never been peak summer months) it’s calm and relaxing and oh so beautiful. The robes and towels are fluffy and there is a never ending supply of freshly laundered towels. I love their spa teas from Camellia’s Tea House and usually buy a pack to take home. It really is a lovely spa experience.
Have you been to South Lodge Spa? let me know what you thought in the comments.
Rach xx
