It’s difficult to find good spas and aesthetic clinics in Devon. Usually when we launch our Spa and Clinic awards we spend weeks in London reviewing those in Harley Street, Chelsea and beyond. I’ve always wanted to champion some closer to home though which is why when Dartmouth Hotel Golf Club and Spa appeared on my radar I jumped at the chance of a spa day.
It was the week of my daughter’s 22nd birthday. Although we live together, our work, relationships and other commitments mean we rarely have time alone. This seemed like the perfect opportunity. A drive through the moors to a relaxing destination where we could spend all day chatting, having fun and receiving some serious TLC.
We chose the Spa Day Package. For £125 we would have two thirty minute treatments, a facial and a full body massage, a two course lunch with bubbly, and full use of all the facilities. The pool, the sauna, the steam room, the jacuzzi, the sun beds and jets.
The Dartmouth Hotel Review
We arrived at midday, down a country lane that directed us down a long, green, treelined driveway. Holiday cottages to our left and a huge carpark to our right. The car park had plenty of spaces and while the entrance could do with a lick of paint we breathed a sigh of relief as we pulled up. Stepping out of the car we were met with the most incredible views of an impeccably lawned expansive golf course. As golfers rode past us in purple polo shirts on their golf buggies we were treated to friendly greetings and waves. I felt like we’d arrived at The Boroughs.
The Dartmouth Hotel Entrance
The entrance to the hotel itself took me back to the 1950s. Lots of doors, lots of white, quite clinical and with subtle Art Deco colours that seemed to transport us back in time. All very clean, pristine, and just a little bit clinical. The receptionists were friendly and quickly directed us to the Spa, a floor below. We past a Golf shop, kitted out with everything you need to enjoy a day on the course.
Relax a little longerWe'd love your views on these
The Dartmouth Hotel Spa
The descent down the steps gradually became warmer with tea lights lining the bannisters and overhead lights dimmed for serenity. As we entered the spa it felt as if we’d left the building as this was in stark contrast to the cool exterior and reception. Smiling faces welcomed us and after filling out the forms we were separated, handed robe packs and led into our own rooms.
The Treatments
The therapist I had instantly put me at ease. In the room there is a separate changing cubicle which removes a lot of the faff of placing clothes on chairs and waiting for the therapist to leave the room. She asked questions but didn’t pry. She could sense my shift in relaxation and knew when to be quiet as I drifted with my own thoughts. She was also incredibly talented, instantly spotting a problem I’ve had with tension in my shoulders for a while. She delivered excellent advice. Quite simply, one of the best therapists I’ve ever met, she ticked every single box.
For the facial she knew exactly what products to use on my skin and explained every one. She tested first in case of reactions and was genuinely interested in the results herself. The products used are TempleSpa, a brand I adore. I first met this brand at the Lincombe hotel in Torquay.
I highly recommend this spa, I highly recommend my therapist and I promise you will emerge feeling refreshed, revitalised and relaxed!
I met my daughter after the treatments, it was her first time having a massage and facial. She was glowing, so relaxed.
The Restaurant
After a rest in the relaxation room with a cup of herbal tea we decided to have our lunch. This may be the wrong way round but we had built up an appetite. We both chose the Caesar Salad and the Raspberry Cheesecake (see photos). The service was exceptional while the view from the deck was beautiful. We made a few friends as we sat in our robes and chatted.
The Facilities
After some more relaxation and a chat about the golf we were ready to don our swimming suits. We didn’t have a pound for the lockers but were very happy that free lockers existed. We showered and entered the pool area. First stop, the Jacuzzi. This has great views from the tinted windows and plenty of space. The jets give the ideal pressure and it’s the ideal way to start our time in the facilities. Next we tried the sauna and steam room, taking advantage of the hot and cold showers in between.
Finally, the pool. While a little tired looking it was perfect. I taught my daughter how to swim underwater while she taught me how to roll. It has been years since we both went swimming together and we spent a good hour just having fun, racing, and floating.
Departure
Finally it was time to depart. We said our goodbyes and chose the long way home so we could extend our perfect day. Thank you Dartmouth Hotel Golf Club and Spa, we will be back!
