Over the Easter holidays we managed to get a child-free night away in Devon at Boringdon Hall, a five star hotel set across a traditional grand manor, steeped in history and a modern eco friendly extension complete with an adults only Gaia Spa.
I had booked last minute, and decided to splash out and stay in one of the newer wellness rooms, which I am so pleased I did as it was one of the nicest rooms I have stayed in (and I have worked in luxury hospitality for brands such as Iconic Luxury Hotels). The main feature that attracted me to the room was the freestanding bath, in the bedroom, which is always so fun and indulgent on a night away. I also loved the rainfall style shower, and all the Gaia products provided for our use during the stay was a lovely touch, it was nice to be able to have a proper pamper after getting out of the bath in the evening.
The Gaia spa was one of the nicest spas I have been in. It had so much to keep us occupied during our visit, as well as the option to order drinks via an app straight to your lounger. We didn’t have a treatment, but I would definitely consider it if we return, as there were some lovely options. I loved that you swam out to to an outdoor whirlpool through the Hydrotherapy Pool, and alfresco hot tubs, which are tucked around the corner almost out of sight (we did actually use these as it wasn’t made clear they were to be hired for private use). The heated indoor pool is huge, great for getting those lengths in, and there’s a Finnish sauna, crystal salt steam room, Laconium herbal sauna and traditional steam room. As well as sensory showers, there is an ice bucket shower – which I wasn’t brave enough to use as I didn’t want to get my hair wet!
We went down to the bar to have a drink and ate from the daytime snack menu (served until 6pm) in a side lounge (we were unable to eat in the bar area) rather than having a sit down meal. This was partly because we didn’t fancy a big or longwinded meal, preferring to enjoy time back in our room, and partly because the prices are fairly steep in the restaurant (there are two, one is Michelin starred). We enjoyed a meat feast pizza each and could have shared as they were generously sized and even more generously topped (the chicken were huge chunks) and so tasty! The bar was gorgeous with high ceilings, wooden beams and traditional paintings on the wall to admire whilst you sip on a cocktail.
The next morning we went in the spa again before heading to breakfast (I definitely recommend doing this, it really sets you up for the day and helps you work up an appetite). We ate in the Spatisserie and it was a gorgeous setting with plenty of natural daylight, making my pictures pop! Breakfast is two courses, with a buffet in the centre of the room consisting of pastries, fruit and yoghurt with a cooked dish to follow. I went for the Full English, whilst Ed opted for his absolute favourite, the Eggs Benedict – the egg pop was just gorgeous.
We checked out and explored the nearby Dartmoor National Park before the drive home. Overall a lovely break away. Although the hotel isn’t adults only, as the spa is, we didn’t really see any children during our stay, which made it that little bit more relaxing. I would definitely recommend a stay at Boringdon Hall, if you are looking for a touch of luxury, with an indulgent spa to enjoy as a couple.
