Clarice House
You’d be forgiven for thinking that in a global recession the spa industry would be the first to suffer. But Clarice House has been booming – a trend that many of the UK’s leading spas have also enjoyed. ‘I think people are going on holiday less, so a spa minibreak break is a great compromise – much cheaper and far more relaxing’, our therapist tells us as she paints chocolate brown varnish onto my nails.
With Clarice House Bliss Experiences on offer from as little as £70, you can see her point. Why trek half way across the continent and battle through airports to bask in sunshine, when you can just slip into a gorgeous spa pool close by – and be at home the same day feeling like you’ve been away for a week.
Tis stunning neo-Jacobean Mansion sur- rounded by woodland derives its unique name from ceramicist Clarice Cliff. Deco- rated from top to tail with contemporary detail that fuses antique charm with Art Deco style, the hotel, country club and spa is a fabulous mix of English tradition and
modern luxury. We enjoyed a one night ‘Original Bliss Experience’ mini break, of- fering us a three course dinner, two course lunch, overnight stay and access to the spa, gym and pool – plus two treatments. Te experience? Fabulous. Spend your after- noon basking next to the pool, in the ja- cuzzi and steam rooms, or make use of the extremely high-tech gym. Leisurely leaf through newspapers over a coffee in the hotel’s wood panelled reception and lounge area. Pad into the glasshouse conservatory for a bit of peace and quiet. Or just chill out in your hotel room: ours was spacious and comfortable (named Fantasque, after the Clarice Cliff ceramics range).
Must-Try: the award-winning restaurant. Seriously. Our meringue desert was utterly divine and to die for; so delicious we had it for lunch again the next day. Polish up your nails with an Express Manicure on site though, as the restaurant asks you to leave your fluffy white gowns at the door and dress for dinner (what, you mean we have to wear clothes?!).
January/February 2012 31
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