Late deals
SOMETIMES you just need to slow down and be good to yourself. I’d read this in magazines and been given this advice many times over the past few months.
So I decided to do it in style and give myself a well-earned break at Stobo Castle Spa in Peebles.
My friend and I drove down from Glasgow and the journey through the Borders countryside is beautiful. In no time, we were winding our way up the majestic driveway to the breathtaking views of Stobo Castle.
Robert and Gaynor Winyard bought the derelict castle in 1978 and turned it into a luxury health spa. Today it’s run by their son Stephen. I couldn’t help thinking what a visionary Gaynor was, because back in the day, spa breaks were only for the rich and famous.
XTXhXeXwXeXekxexnxdxxoxf relaxation began wheXnxwxex checked into the Cashmere suite, where a chilled bottle of Bollinger awaits you on arrival.
This is Stobo’s deluxe accommodation, which you have to see to believe. The suite’s walls are lined with cashmere, the bathroom has a bath made of handcrafted limestone and the private patio overlooks the sprawling hills.
A glass of bubbly, a gorgeous suite and an incredible country vista was almost too good to leave, but we wanted to see what the spa had to offer.
The great thing about Stobo is that there is something for everyone, whether you want a break packed with fresh air, exercise and spa delights or to just relax and enjoy the surroundings.
You can go for a healthy detox or have a glass of prosecco at any time. This year they’ve introduced a cocktail bar.
The gym has classes on every hour, from circuits to dancing the dragon. They have planned walks that take you through the beautiful Japanese water gardens and you can take bikes out and explore the countryside.
Once we changed into the ubiquitous white towelling robes, my friend and I headed for the spa. The swimming pool BY JACKIE McGUIGAN has panoramic views over the hills. We did a few lengths to tick the exercise box, then headed for the ladies’ steam rooms followed by the outdoor hot tubs.
Once we’d dressed for dinner, we headed to the cocktail bar for pre-dinner drinks. It’s a great addition and adds a much-needed element to the night-time entertainment.
We chatted to some of the other guests over dinner – and one thing they all had in common was that the Stobo visit was a regular thing.
After the best sleep ever, I headed off to meet my therapist Gemma for my treatment. I’d chosen the top-to-toe face and body glow. It’s an uplifting and rejuvenating all-over face and body treatment.
Afterwards, my skin felt smooth and hydrated.
Being good to yourself is really great advice.
And this trip certainly ticked that box. ■ Flying from Glasgow, October 24 to November 22, seven nights full board at the four-star Hotel Servigroup Castilla, Benidorm, Costa Blanca, from £459pp. ■ Flying from Glasgow, November 5 to 26, four nights B&B at the four-star Hotel Galileo, Prague, from £225pp. ■ Flying from Glasgow, December 3 to 17, seven nights B&B at the adults only four-star Allegro Madeira, Funchal, from £359pp. ■ See www. stewarttravel.co.uk or call 0800 091 2757.