We take a look at the relaxing treatments and experiences on offer at some truly memorable retreats and spas

The Spa at Green Farm, Shadoxhurst

Set amongst idyllic ancient woodland and meadow pastures, Green Farm is a wonderfully rejuvenating place where you can experience unique rural retreats, escapes and experiences in a beautiful slice of Kentish countryside – Shadoxhurst, near Ashford. 

This conservation-focused working farm and wellbeing estate is home to luxury accommodation in a 15th century farmhouse and self-catered barn, alongside a boutique spa. 

Inspired by nature and Green Farm’s beautiful countryside setting, The Spa at Green Farm offers luxurious ESPA treatments as well as an extensive beauty menu. The Spa looks out across the wonderful 13th-century church and acres of protected conservation land. It’s been awarded a 5 Bubble Rating for its approach to natural wellbeing and sustainability by The Good Spa Guide, too. 

Spa Day experiences have been designed around The Spa at Green Farm’s lovely countryside setting. Guests who are dining as part of their Spa Day will enjoy a nutritious, two-course set-menu lunch that changes daily, including seasonal produce from the garden, taking into consideration any dietary requirements. You can also choose from a hand-selected offering of local wines, beers and gins. 

For those seeking a more active experience, The Spa features an indoor yoga and pilates studio, an outdoor sauna and two outdoor hot-tubs – one in a secluded walled garden and one overlooking the farm’s fields and natural pond, perfect for a refreshing dip between sauna and hot-tub sessions.

Bespoke group or hen days can be catered for, as well as overnight Spa Stays in The Farmhouse for that extra memorable experience. Find out more and see a current list of special events that include restorative Shirin Yoku ‘Forest Bathing,’ Outdoor Solstice Yoga and Inner Stillness Workshops with a team of expert teachers at greenfarmkent.co.uk.

Lou Casteou, France

Lou Casteou’s fitness retreats in the South of France were created for those looking to have fun, feel great and get fit. The magnificent chateau in the Cote d’Azur’s Esterel National Park provides an idyllic backdrop for the luxury breaks.

 Body Tonic delivers a programme of energetic and immensely varied workouts and relaxation. Designed to accommodate all ages and fitness levels, activities are led by a team of skilled personal trainers, keen to help improve stamina, build strength and boost confidence. Sessions are challenging yet enjoyable – a variety of intense stretching, cardio classes, Latin dance, swimming, yoga, boxing, TRX training, tennis workshops and coastal treks. Classes make the most of the chateau’s scenic location and surrounding woodlands.

Lou Casteou’s Let’s Salsa and Afro dance retreats offer guests a chance to try out the different dance disciplines of Salsa, Bachata, Cuban Salsa, Kizomba, Cha Cha and the party dance, Merengue and Regaetton. The retreat caters for beginners, improvers and advanced dancers, wishing to improve their footwork skills and dance fitness.

 The chateau’s regular Tennis Academies provide six hours of daily professional coaching, strategy sessions and tournaments, along with trips to surrounding areas of interest and social events.

Meals at all retreats are enjoyed in Lou Casteou’s stunning period dining rooms or gardens, which boast views out to the sea. The cuisine is always nutritionally balanced, with talented chefs who curate mouth-watering gourmet dishes, designed to fuel the exercise programmes and promote general wellbeing and enjoyment. There’s also an excellent open bar serving fabulous Provençal wines.

Perched on a hillside, the grand, 200 year old venue boasts 12 luxury en suite rooms and can comfortably sleep up to 32 guests. For more information about the retreats at Lou Casteou, see loucasteou.com. 

Cara & Co at Bloomsburys Biddenden

Cara & Co Spa Retreat at Bloomsburys Biddenden, opened its doors in April 2022 to provide both spa days and luxurious beauty treatments. The retreat is located within the picturesque, tranquil and idyllic Kent countryside, offering stunning views.

 The spa offers its services to a very limited number of guests each day, allowing staff to provide a genuinely exclusive and personal experience. The heart and soul of the Spa Retreat is their exceptional treatments – choose either a relaxing massage or therapeutic facial – which are included in every spa day package and carried out using the award-winning Matis Paris skincare range. You’ll also be able to take advantage of first-class facilities for the day including a hot tub, sauna and relaxation room. Find out more at bloomsburysbiddenden.com. 

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