As I walked through the village setting here at Bluestone from my five-star self-catering cottage, the fairy lights delicately lined the cottages and idyllic shops. On the edge of the village stands The Well Spa - last years winners of the Good Spa Guide - and where I would be spending the next four nights enjoying an individually tailored holistic journey. The midweek retreat start with welcome drinks and a healthy buffet and the rain let up just long enough to take in my new surroundings. As I entered the spa I was greeted by the friendly staff and escorted to Caffi Mor - the spas restaurant - where I was about to find out more about the week ahead - this is offered to all guests not just bloggers.
I headed back to the cottage and enjoyed a relaxing bath and an early night ready for the busy day ahead.
The next morning I prepared myself a healthy breakfast - I would usually go all out on holiday but somehow I felt guilty for craving a fry up and opted for fruit and natural yogurt. As part of the package you're invited to attend a 45 minute 1-1 Vini Yoga session and having practiced yoga in the past I was really looking forward to having a practiced designed specifically for me as I was right now; heavily pregnant and struggling to walk due to the SPD. Bethan, the instructor was wonderful and talked me through each exercise and how each one would benefit me. We practiced breathing techniques that would be helpful during birth and exercises that will, along with the correct breathing naturally relieve pain. I felt so energised after the session, so awake.
After some quick form filling we were introduced to the practitioners and offered plenty of healthy treats - I wish I hadn't eaten before I arrived. During the next three days we would be taken on a journey, the focus of this midweek retreat is on holistic wellbeing: the nourishment of mind, body and soul. The therapists at The Well Spa treat each visitor as a whole, working together to tailor a package that suits your needs.
The next morning I prepared myself a healthy breakfast - I would usually go all out on holiday but somehow I felt guilty for craving a fry up and opted for fruit and natural yogurt. As part of the package you're invited to attend a 45 minute 1-1 Vini Yoga session and having practiced yoga in the past I was really looking forward to having a practiced designed specifically for me as I was right now; heavily pregnant and struggling to walk due to the SPD. Bethan, the instructor was wonderful and talked me through each exercise and how each one would benefit me. We practiced breathing techniques that would be helpful during birth and exercises that will, along with the correct breathing naturally relieve pain. I felt so energised after the session, so awake.
Welcome evening with drinks and buffet
Luxury five-star accommodation
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
300 minutes of treatments :
1-1 Vini Yoga Session with Bethan
Consultation with the HEALTH DETECTIVES
80 Minutes of spa treatments
2 hours in the thermal suite
Use of luxury robe and slippers
Free ESPA gift
For my spa treatment I decided on the Pre Natal Massage, 80 minutes of pure bliss. The therapist set up the bed for me to lie on my side and only used products suitable for pregnancy. She worked on my lower back, exfoliated my legs and then gave me a mini facial. I almost floated out of there.
The whole experience almost lifted a weight off my shoulders. I spent time concentrating on me, just what I needed. The beautiful surroundings and luxury accommodation made it easy to relax and let go of all the stresses life brings. It also helped that for the whole 5 days I didn't have any mobile signal. Apart from the ladies at the spa, I didn't speak to another human being.
Bluestone is the perfect getaway for families, couples and like me singletons. There is something for everyone. I can't wait to return in the spring with Baby Belle.
Laurie Rose
*I was invited by Bluestone and received my stay and treatments complimentary. However all views are my own*