Spectacular spas: weekend retreat

Ragdale Hall is surrounded by unspoilt countryside with green fields stretching as far as the eye can see - it's hard to believe the spa is only a 20-minute drive from the centre of Leicester, such is
the sense of peacefulness and tranquillity. Once a stately home, it opened as a health hydro in 1973 and has recently added further state-of-the-art facilities, including 13 different thermal spa experiences along with five pools. During my stay, I particularly enjoyed the rose sauna, created with Nordic stone, a rose marble floor and a huge window that floods the room with light. For a more intense experience, the volcanic salt bath is a must. The room is lined with black granite and slate and a mix of eucalyptus and peppermint and mineral-laden salt is regularly spritzed into the air to encourage deep breathing and detoxification.

Aside from the thermal spa, Ragdale Hall also offers an enticing array of holistic and more traditional treatments, ranging from a banana, papaya and strawberry body polish to a designer manicure. With more than 20 treatment rooms, there is no excuse for not going all out. I opted for the Beyond Bliss calming ritual, a two-hour top-to-toe session using Elemis products and hot basalt stones to help release muscular tension. A Visible Brilliance facial is incorporated into the treatment, which immediately restored radiance to my complexion.

If you feel like some fresh air and exercise after all the pampering, you can take a stroll around the beautiful grounds, enjoy a game of tennis or croquet, or borrow a bicycle and head out on a scenic ride. I left Ragdale Hall feeling on top of the world. 

Ragdale Hall, near Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire (01664 433000 www.ragdalehall.co.uk). A two-night stay costs from £259 per person based on two people sharing and includes a body massage or facial treatment. Full use of the thermal spa, gymnasium, exercise classes and outdoor activities is also included. Please contact the reservation team to find a package to suit your exact needs.

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