The perfect weekend retreat

Although I don't have the time for a holiday to Thailand, I'm secretly hoping that my short break at Senspa at Careys Manor will be the next best thing. Brockenhurst may be a long way from exotic Asia, but this country house retreat boasts its own Thai restaurant and spa. Walking up the winding drive, it's obvious the manor house has plenty of English charm and period features - but how will it deliver on Eastern promise?

I'm greeted at reception by a smiling member of staff who is only too happy to tell me all about the hotel facilities and the sounding area of the New Forest. I am then shown to one of the Manor Rooms - nice and spacious with luxurious touches. Its modern decor has been skillfully created to sit comfortably in its country house setting.

And now, into my robe and slippers and time to spa!

Leisure facilities

Senspa boasts a fantastic range of both facilities and services. These include a large hydrotherapy pool as well as an ozone-treated swimming pool. Had I wished to exercise before a trip to the spa instead of heading straight for the jacuzzi, I was also welcome to make use of the fully equipped gymnasium, (with individual television screens on each machine) - there's even a full dance studio!

There is also a herbal sauna, mud room and Laconicum, full of lovely smells and softly lit.  After my long relaxing swim, the bucket drench of ice cold water was certainly an invigorating experience, as were the experience showers, which stimulate rain, either as ice storm, tropical or sea, complete with lighting and sound effects.

After more than two hours enjoying the facilities, I could have explored the nearby woodland as recommended by the hotel but instead I decide to sneak off to a relaxation room with some of my favourite magazines.

Top treatments

The spa's Asian theme is beautifully carried through to its exotic reception area, with striking pieces of art throughout. The spa boasts a team of Thai therapists who are specially trained in the art of Thai massage.

I have chosen to have the Sen Fusion's Signature Massage which lasts for 90 minutes. My therapist explains that it involves a mix of relaxing therapies taken from the east and west, and what follows is one of the best deep massages I've experienced. My therapist used her hands and elbows to tease out all the aches and pains from every area of my body, which leaves me feeling light-headed and blissfully relaxed. And - as an extra plus - my skin is now soft and radiant.

Dinner

Next, dinner - but where to go?  The hotel has three restaurants; the Zen Garden Resturant which serves authentic Thai cuisine, the Le Blaireau French Bistro and Bar or the more formal Manor restaurant which boasts two AA rosettes.

I eventually decide on the Manor restaurant, offering a choice of wonderful local dishes with many of the ingredients sourced from the New Forest itself. I opted for a starter of scallops, and then a fillet of local beef which was cooked to perfection. I was also impressed to find separate vegetarian and healthy option menus which was very considerate touch. All in all, it was a beautiful meal which was presented by friendly and attentive staff.

Driving away from Careys Manor, I can't help feeling as though I've had the exotic break that I was looking for. All in all, Senspa at Careys Manor is a hidden delight in the world of British spa hotels.

Information and booking

Visit the hotel's website at www.careysmanor.com or call 01590 623551. Double rooms start from £89 per person per night. Price includes breakfast.

Read last month's spa review - a speedy lunchtime facial treat

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