Scotland the best
Everyone enjoys a bit of pampering and you deserve the best so get yourself booked in
Stobo Castle
Borders baronial mansion six miles south of Peebles in beautiful countryside. Dawyck Gardens nearby and there are Japanese Water Gardens in the grounds. Mainly a hotel (51 rooms) but day visits possible; the spa is the heart of the pampering experience. Over 70 treatments. Not too much emphasis on exercise although there is a lovely pool. Different categories of rooms and suites; also lodges. Bespoke and every conceivable and fashionable treatment for men and women; all medical peculiarities accounted for. Decent dining: “healthy”, of course, but no denial of carbs or cream. Coffee shop/juice bar.
Spa at Blythswood Square
In the basement of fab Glasgow city-centre hotel, a top spa and destination in itself. Hugely popular with Glasgow lasses for individual treatments and day packages using, among others, ishga products (natural, organic, Scottish). Great lighting, steam, sauna, Jacuzzi-tastic; seductive and indulgent, as they say. Pure (as well as purifying) Glasgow.
One Spa Sheraton Grand Hotel
Considered the best spa in Edinburgh, it’s also one of the top things about the hotel, which is centrally situated opposite the Usher Hall. As well as the usual (reasonably spacious) pool, there’s another that extends outdoors, dangling infinity-style over Conference Sq. Decent gym. Exotic hydrotherapy and a host of treatment. Range of day and half-day tickets and gift vouchers.
The Spa at Gleneagles
Naturally, the leisure suites here have always offered one of the best spa experiences. 20 treatment rooms, a plethora of therapists and built-in soothing atmosphere, it’s practically irresistible with or without golf fatigue. Suites for men and women, vitality pool, heated beds and a long menu of tantalising treatments.
Peter Irvine is the author of the essential travel guide Scotland the Best published by Collins, priced £15.99