Enjoy the thrill of chilling at the seaside
The Scottish seaside in winter doesn’t sound the most appealing, but when you discover a relaxing haven right on the coast it could turn out to be your best beach holiday yet.
That was certainly the case when we ventured to The Gailes Hotel in Irvine for some well-earned TLC.
Watching the children squeal with delight as they dip their toes in the freezing cold water and build sand castle after sand castle is a treat. It seems nature’s magic never loses its charm, even in the colder climes.
Throughout the pandemic, there seems to have been a lot of focus on “making time for yourself” – but the reality can be very different.
However, with a school holiday in sight, we decided it was the perfect time to cash in on a little family time.
Nestled in the heart of Ayrshire, the hotel isn’t too far from home for us – but feels a million miles away.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, and with sea and sand on the doorstep, as well as world-class golf courses, it has an idyllic location – and plenty of luxury to boot.
After a quick bite to eat at the hotel’s café, I ship the husband and kids off to try the hotel’s state-of-the-art driving range whilst I pay a visit to the spa, Si!, which has recently undergone a £2 million makeover. From the moment I step over the threshold I can feel my cares melting away. Soft lighting and natural coast-inspired décor set the tone for a perfect pampering experience.
Kicking back in the stunning thermal suite, boasting a steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi pool, is a real tonic.
But finding the outdoor hydro pool is even better. There is nothing quite like sitting in a hot tub with a glass of fizz at arm’s length, watching the world go by. Or so I thought until I experience
the most relaxing massage of my life. I opt for one of the Si! ritual treatments, a whole hour and a half of lying in the dark, doing absolutely nothing.
It begins with a serene foot rub, followed by a back, neck and shoulder exfoliation and massage using hot stones, and finishes with a fantastic facial and scalp massage.
By the time I leave, I feel like I am floating on a cloud. Every knot of tension has been smoothed out, every worry temporarily forgotten.
Checking into our family room gives us all a chance to flop down on the bed and chill before dinner.
With two double beds, a spacious bathroom and smart TV – as well as welcome packs for the wee ones – it has all we need for a home away from home.
After a quick change, we head along the corridor to Coast restaurant.
Cool lighting, from the rope chandelier to the window of our booth which boasts a beach scene, sets a warm, relaxing ambience. Our fillet steaks and chunky chips are cooked to perfection and, thankfully, we still
have enough room for a knickerbocker glory. The kids, who ordinarily struggle with a 20-minute seating for dinner at home, colour happily and challenge us to games of noughts and crosses as they tuck into their “make your own” pizzas, followed by a pokey hat for pudding.
In fact, we’re so chilled that we spend almost three hours just enjoying the food, the atmosphere and the opportunity to spend some quality time together.
With the juggle of work, school, nursery, evening sports clubs, and my husband and I trying to get ourselves to the gym, these times are few and far between.
After a sound night’s sleep, we are up early for breakfast and to let the hubby enjoy the spa and a round of golf at nearby Dundonald Links, which he says is among the best courses he has played.
We spend the afternoon just a few miles down the road at Heads of Ayr Farm Park, feeding baby horses, donkeys and goats, bouncing on the trampolines and testing out tiny tractors.
The highlight of the day is the ringo sledging. In fact, it takes a while to prise the children – and their father – away, just as the park is about to close.
All in all, it’s been a fun few days doing nothing but relaxing. Who needs a fortnight abroad in the sun? Scotland has the seaside all year round – the best place to make magical memories.
Just don’t forget to pack your woolly jumper and a cosy coat!