A spa where children are seen and heard!

OLIVIA BENJAMIN discovers life at The Elms in Worcestershire doesn’t have to be complicated if you want to spa with children

 

 

Kids splashing in the bubbles of the Jacuzzi, toddlers in arm bands kicking their way across the extremely heated pool and teenagers catching up in the café – I have immersed myself in the ultimate child-friendly spa and I’m lovin’ it…

Of course, The Spa at The Elms is not for everyone, If you’re seeking some solitary “me time” padding around in a bath robe dipping in and out of a bestseller in-between relaxing treatments this may not be the best place for you.

But, if you’re looking for the perfect family spa break where you’re all free to express yourselves - book your room now.

Historically, The Spa at The Elms would have been the sort of place where children were seen and not heard but not today – in fact, being heard is actively encouraged in this home-from-home Queen Anne mansion set in 10-acres of rolling Worcestershire countryside.

So, for this rather noisy family-of-four it was time to kick back for the weekend after some hectic Christmas shopping and see if “life doesn’t have to be complicated” as The Elms claims on its brochures.

First port of call was the charming Bears Den, an Ofsted-registered kids club within easy reach of the spa complex. And as all parents know if the kids are happy you’re happy.

So, after a show-round of exciting new games, crafts and activities the boys quickly felt at home allowing mum and dad two hours to explore the cosy spa and indulge in a coffee at The Pear Terrace Brasserie.

As the Bears Den offers two hours of free babysitting this is the perfect amount of time to choose one of the treatments on offer and then chill out in the pool which is heated to a balmy 33 C and take a dip in the bubbling inside/outside Jacuzzi.

The treatment menu features natural and organic influences and product ranges include the Comfort Zone range plus Mama Mio
.
Facilities include:
• 12 metre swimming pool
• Thermal retreat with steam room, sauna and ice fountain
• Experience shower
• Rasul mud therapy room for groups of two to six people*
• Therapy rooms to enjoy a range of holistic therapies and unique signature treatments*
• Technogym fitness suite with state-of-the-art gym equipment and integrated entertainment system
• Pear Terrace Brasserie and Garden serving food all day
• Indoor/outdoor Hydro Spa
• Roof top terrace
• Relaxation suite
*Chargeable facility

Some of the tempting treatments on offer include The Signature Collection which features The Botanical Breeze Facial and Body Treatment which harnesses the anti-oxidant properties of such local fruits as apples, pears, cherries and plums.

The Organic Collection uses products which have been developed under the Lifegate zero impact project which contributes to replanting trees in the rainforest and include such therapies as the Sacred Face Anti-Ageing Ritual and the Total Body Performance Massage.

But the piste-de-resistance for jaded parents’ who just want to chill out together and actually talk without interruptions is a wallow in the Jacuzzi with its clever connecting glass door allowing outside access.

There is nothing better than feeling the December chill on your cheeks while your body is immersed in the bubbling hot tub safe in the knowledge your children are only a stone’s throw away and within minutes they will be joining you for a dip at dusk before you all get ready for dinner.

There are family spas and there is The Elms. This is a hotel which welcomes you with open arms, ensures you have quality time with your children and sends you on your way with a warm feeling in the pit of your stomach. We will be back…

www.theelmshotel.co.uk

Christmas Spa’kle Spa Night at The Elms Enjoy the spa in the evening with a friend and leave sparkling from top to toe. Spa'kle Spa Night Includes: Thirty minute “Gold Face and Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage” 30 minute express facial of your choice -Express manicure or pedicure -Eye brow wax or shape The Gold Face and Neck, Back and Shoulder Massage is a tantalising gold shimmering, innovative body treatment. With its smooth texture the mixture glides easily over the skin transforming from a thick honey like blend, to a smooth oily gel and finally into an easy to rinse milk. Rich in Caviar extract this body massage honey releases its numerous benefits and leaves the skin silky soft. Caviar extract is rich in vitamins A,D,B and trace elements of amino acids and help slow down the ageing process. * Spa Night is £120 for two and includes all of the above. Available from 4pm in the spa. Add £10 to the package for a glass of sparkle each. This special break is available until December, 30 2011. Subject to availability. Spa facilities are open from 7am-9pm everyday. Treatments are available between 8am–8pm everyday. Flexible Spa Memberships, Day Spa Packages, Overnight Retreats and Special Offers on Treatments are available.

www.theelmshotel.co.uk

 

 

Contact The SPA Traveller