Spa of the month
This month sees the long-awaited launch of the Verbena Spa at the boutique Feversham Arms Hotel in Helmsley, North Yorkshire. And according to proud owner Simon Rhatigan, the spa's completion marks the final stage in the hotel's marvellous five-year makeover to ensure guests can now experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury throughout their stay.
So what's so special about the spa? Well, for starters, there's the carefully honed English country atmosphere - which combines old-style chic with some very modern touches. There's even an outdoor terrace, where - weather permitting - you can sit and admire the spa's traditional English garden with its lupins, wisteria, lavender, agapanthus and crab apple trees.
The spa offers an array of pampering packages including the Pink Ladies day - perfect for an indulgent catch-up with friends. Take a day off to hang out in the hot tub and tuck into a truly scrumptious lunch - while still finding time to be groomed to perfection. Priced £125 on weekdays, the package also includes a facial, deep tissue back massage, manicure, pedicure and a glass of pink champagne. Now, who could resist?
Or if you really want to recharge your batteries and escape from the everyday for a few hours, you could try the Hideaway package. Choose between a delicious detoxifying wrap or an uplifting massage, followed by a luxurious manicure or pedicure. The price? £99 on weekdays.
Among the one-off treatments, we love the sweet-smelling herbal lavender repair facial: deep-cleansing to draw out impurities, it helps reduce unwanted shine, refines the pores and treats those pesky skin breakouts. What's more, it's so relaxing. The hour-long treatment costs £55.
And because spas are all about treating yourself, you'll doubtless be thrilled to hear that chocolate chip cookies, a selection of patisserie cakes and afternoon tea are always on the spa's menu - along with an array of healthy-but-tasty savoury dishes, of course.
To find out more about treatments and overnight stays, go to www.verbenaspa.com.
