Cornwall’s rugged, ocean-whipped beauty makes it a perfect fit for serene spa experiences. Whether you want to reward yourself with a massage after pounding the breathtaking South West Coast Path, or simply fancy a night away from the strains of everyday life, here are some of the best spas in Cornwall to unwind, recharge and indulge. From day spas and hotels with treatment rooms to sophisticated spa retreats, there is a Cornish spa for every budget and occasion.
Scarlet
One of the founding Cornish List hotels, in no small part because of its stunning spa, The Scarlet Hotel is the epitome of eco chic. You’ll find a bromine-filtered indoor pool, an outdoor pool cleansed by its living reed bed, a clifftop sauna, steam room and endless ocean views. Treatments are inspired by holistic Indian Ayurveda principles, and are each tailored to individual needs following a consultation. As with the rest of the hotel, the spa is designed around the natural environment– flooded with light and natural materials. The rugged coastline it calls home inspires every corner of the spa from many of its facilities you can hear crashing waves and the roar of the Atlantic. It makes for a seriously serene and sumptuous setting that is distinctly Cornish. The hotel is sophisticated and romantic and a Scarlet spa break is always a memorable way to mark a special occasion or celebration, or to simply unplug from the stresses of daily life.
Bedruthan
Sister hotel to Scarlet, Bedruthan holds its own as a strong spa offering. It offers a gorgeous thermal spa, sauna, steam room, caldarium and hydropool for some serious relaxation. Its fantastic dining options make it an indulgent option for a spa day – with delicious lunch menus and afternoon tea options. Bedruthan spa has embraced hot/cold therapy – with Seven stages at different temperatures. Those seeking a bolt of rejuvenation can warm up in the heated sauna before pulling a cord to for a blast of cold water. For something a little more serene, the spa garden is a blissful spot to get back to nature among a heady mix of aromatic herbs and plants.
The Pig at Harlyn Bay
Another Cornish List hotel, The Pig at Harlyn Bay is one of the best places to stay in North Cornwall. Its Potting Shed Treatment Rooms are tucked away through the walled Kitchen Garden, perched picturesquely by the brook. Open to all, you do not need to be a hotel guest to experience a relaxing treatment here – it’s a lovely way to visit this exclusive property. Like much of the hotel’s rustic and relaxed design, treatments at the Pig are inspired by the hotel’s coastal surroundings. Experience deeply relaxing full-body treatments using natural and organic products accredited to the highest standards by the Soil Association. After a day on the North Cornwall coast or a brisk walk along the headland, there is nowhere better to unwind with a full body massage or sugar scrub or to embrace the healing powers of the sea with a hydrating body wrap or rejuvenating facial.
St Moritz Cowshed Spa
The St Moritz Hotel in Polzeath is the UK’s only Cowshed Spa outside Soho House properties. Based on the beauty philosophy perfected at Babington House in Somerset, using mood-enhancing botanical products. Inspired by an English country garden, Cowshed products are blended to soothe and revive. St Moritz Spa has six stylish treatment rooms offering everything from a quick beauty fix to indulgent head-to-toe Cowshed packages. For a romantic experience, couples can book a side-by-side massage in the double room. Or, choose from their all-inclusive packages such as the Full Day, or Half Day Package. And, if you fall in love with the lotions and potions used in your treatment, you can pick up your own goodies to take home in the Cowshed shop.
Carbis Bay Spa
Carbis Bay Hotel is a perfect setting for a memorable spa experience – scenically located on one of the world’s most beautiful bays. The C Bay Spa is a real gem in West Cornwall offering relaxation, replenishment and rejuvenation. Its breathtaking outdoor infinity pool offers swimmers showstopping views. Or, if you’re looking for something more tranquil, the invigorating hydropool is a paradise of bubble jets, best enjoyed with a chilled glass of Champagne. Enhanced with beautiful Bampton products and a tempting array of high quality treatments, this is a spa fit for the most discerning guests.
Fowey Hall
As a mum of three, I had to include Fowey Hall’s superb spa offering – but as it’s currently undergoing a really substantial redevelopment this one is currently a ‘watch this space’ situation. What I will say, is that Fowey Hall effortlessly blends family-friendly and luxury in a way that many try but few master. Here, kids can swim and splash or they can be entertained in the wonderful, Ofsted registered creche whilst parents enjoy some hard-earned pampering. Full review of the new spa facilities – which will include a stunning outdoor pool – to follow!
