SPA DOCTOR treats... EXHAUSTION

THE idea of a spa break that promotes the health benefits of ‘vinotherapy’ – that’s drinking and, erm, bathing in wine – seemed too good to be true. But as someone who probably looks forward to wine o’clock more than is appropriate, I had to wonder whether such a thing really could tackle my main problem in life: exhaustion.

My husband and I run our own media agency and a few family dramas, coupled with back-to-back overseas work commitments, left me frazzled.

As much as I relished the concept, could this be a solution, or just leave me with an even bigger headache?

WHERE’S THE SOLUTION?

Le Domaine in western Spain. The wines growing in the surrounding Abadia Retuerta vineyards have won awards, but the therapists are trained in the healing properties of grapes as well as the liquid they produce.

WHAT’S THE TREATMENT?

The Spa Sommelier is the first person I meet and she ‘diagnoses’ me as tired and emotional from a blind tasting, where my preference for a nice sauvignon blanc indicates my body will be most responsive to a mix of yuzu, apricot and almond in the essential oils used for my various treatments.

The next day, it’s time for Le Grand Cru: I’m scrubbed with grape seeds, skins and stems high in the polyphenols, antocyanosides and resveratrol which give red wine its proven role in reducing cardiovascular risk.

In between spa sessions, completed with an anti-fatigue back treatment using hot mud, I enjoy a twice-daily glass of red wine – guilt-free, as it’s good for my heart health – with Mediterranean food in the spa restaurants.

There’s nothing quite like contemplating rows of leafy vines climbing a hill for soothing the soul, or fine red wine for promoting a good night’s sleep.

After three days, I feel revitalised and lighter, thanks to a Mediterranean diet high in tomatoes, olive oil and fresh fish.

WHAT’S THE COST?

Double rooms from £405 per night including breakfast. Diagnosis by the Spa Sommelier followed by a 90-minute bespoke treatment is £225 and Le Grand Cru, a two-hour experience, is £264. ledomaine.es