Careys Manor, Hampshire
Best for a taste of the Orient in the English countryside
Retreat to relaxing rooms with heated beds, and opulent sauna and steam rooms
Surrounded by the lush, leafy New Forest, yet conveniently close to the neighbouring village of Brockenhurst, Careys Manor is ideal for a gloriously grown-up getaway. On arrival, the reception feels quintessentially British, from the grand staircase to the cosy fireplaces.
In contrast, the hotel’s Thaithemed Senspa is invitingly exotic – and the flagship venue for the Senspa brand. Be sure to take up the offer of a guided tour – you’ll need it to navigate your way around the sprawling network of relaxation rooms, fitness suites and yoga studios. The main swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room are available for all hotel guests, while paying spa guests are issued with a special wristband allowing access to the more extensive spa areas. Unwind in the huge hydrotherapy pool, where each section provides a different experience, with targeted massaging jets, waterfall-style showers and an intense whirlpool. Retreat to relaxing rooms with heated beds, therapeutically-lit showers, and opulent sauna and steam rooms. If you’re feeling brave, head to the ice grotto to shower beneath a bucket of ice water suspended from the ceiling. Have a light breakfast of smoothies, croissants and fruit in the Zen Garden restaurant, or head to the main restaurant, Cambium, where hot dishes can be cooked to order, and there’s an extensive buffet.
Lunch can be enjoyed in the comfort of your robe in the Zen Garden. Senspa have collaborated with the founder of Spring Green London, Bonnie Stowell, to offer a special menu, full of nourishing ingredients. Mix and match to create a flavour-packed salad (£12), with ingredients such as turmeric, coconut and bee pollen. For a blow-out dinner, Cambium doesn’t disappoint. The menu is focused on seasonal ingredients and lists the local provenance of the meat and fish. Start with a chicken & chorizo bonbon with Romanesco mayonnaise (£14), followed by a Jerusalem artichoke cannelloni (£15). There’s also a tasting menu at £65 a head. Sarah Lienard
How to do it
Double rooms at Careys Manor start from £199 per night, including breakfast. Spa days start from £99. careysmanor.com