The perfect countryside retreat

Combining multi-million pound facilities with the charm of its Victorian architechture, Catherine Everett visits the luxurious Ragdale Hall Health Hydro

Nestled amongst the rolling hills of the beautiful Leicestershire countryside, Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa has recently been voted Best Destination Spa in Europe and it's not difficult to see why.  

From the moment I step over the threshold of this stunning Victorian retreat, I am made to feel exceptionally welcome. A smiling and helpful member of staff shows me to my bedroom, which is a traditional design with every modern comfort. The exquisite bathroom is filled with top-of-the-range toiletries and the huge windows look over an expansive, well-kept lawn.

Within minutes, I'm dressed in my fluffy white dressing gown and slippers. It might be raining outside but my room is so lovely and toasty that I would have had no problem spending the entire weekend lounging on my sumptuous bed flicking through magazines - only if I didn't know that there was much more to explore!

Thermal spa

Before going for my treatments, I stop off at Ragdale's new multi-million pound Thermal Spa. It's an oasis of calm; on entering my senses are indulged by both soothing smells and music. A sanctuary of warm and restful energies, the spa features 12 unique experiences and I find it a real struggle to choose which room I want to enter first. I eventually settle on the Rose Sauna, which has the heat and humidity of a traditional sauna but also a beautiful and relaxing scent.

Afterwards, I nip into the Cave Shower which recreates the sensation of being caught in a tropical thunderstorm at night. Feeling invigorated and re-energised, it takes all of my willpower to leave the spa without trying out the 10 remaining rooms - but it's time for my treatments. I make a careful mental note to return before heading for home.

Top treatments

I spend a few minutes relaxing in the waiting area before being called for my treatment. Although most of my fellow guests are women, I am surprised to see that more than a few have brought their husbands and boyfriends along too. Unlike other spas I've visited, I get the impression that Ragdale is a popular setting for romantic getaways as well as a weekend treat with girlfriends.

What came next was one of the best massages that I've ever experienced. I opted for the Elemis Beyond Bliss Calming Ritual which uses hot Batu stones to tease out the knots of tension from my upper back and neck. It also involved an indulgent facial which left my skin feeling smooth and radiant. My therapist asked me questions about my skincare regime and gave me personal advice and guidance as to how I could improve it. Such personal touches are what made this stay really memorable and would encourage me to return.

Two hours later and I could either take off to a quiet room with a good book, enjoy a light lunch in the Verandah Bar or, had I been feeling up to it, head to one of the many relaxation and fitness classes on offer. I decided to sneak off to my room for a well-deserved nap before dinner!

Relaxed dining

At 7 o'clock I was refreshed and showered but I still did not want to give up the comfort of my fluffy white robe. I had been assured by staff that it was perfectly acceptable to wear it to dinner but I didn't really believe it until I saw several other guests sitting in the grand dining room in their dressing gowns and slippers!

The food was sensational. There was an excellent selection of both healthy and indulgent options, and everything was freshly prepared and delicious. I had a four course meal with a glass or two of wine and then retreated to the bar for a cosy cup of hot chocolate. Feeling blissfully relaxed and invigorated, my winter blues were well and truly blown away.

More information

For more information or to book, visit the hotel's website at www.ragdalehall.co.uk; phone 01664 433000 or email reservations@ragdalehall.co.uk.

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