A Serene Spa Break at South Lodge

The soundtrack of gently slapping flip-flops and bird song is enough to regulate the breathing, unfurl tight shoulders and still even the most frazzled of minds. It is decorated in mollifying blanched wood and stone, while expansive panes of glass flood the space with natural light. I started my journey to serenity in the thermal suite. Here, a botanical sauna overlooks the endless greenery that envelops the hotel. There is a salt steam room and an aromatic steam room, infused with the heady scent of jasmine.

Outside, the steaming Vitality Hydrotherapy Pool is a tranquil spot to let the day’s worries ebb away amid heated bubbles. Or spa-goers can take a dip in the outdoor wild swimming pool, with a temperature hovering around 14 degrees. For the bravest guests, guided swims take place each morning and afternoon in the bracing cold lake. The contrast between the cold water and the thermal suite resets the nervous system, leaving you feeling truly energised. For those who prefer an indoor swim, the infinity edge pool is ideal for leisurely lengths, while the indoor and outdoor sun loungers and cabana beds are perfect for reclining and reading.

Refuel at the spa’s Mediterranean-inspired, zero-waste restaurant Botanica. Bathrobe-clad guests gather in this convivial, relaxed space, replete with rattan chairs, plants aplenty and mid-century decor. The brunch menu boasts plenty of plant-based dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Expect excellent coffee, fresh-pressed juices enhanced with skin-boosting tinctures, and wholesome plates, such as stem ginger porridge laden with apple jam and seeds, and pancakes layered with coconut yoghurt and zingy blueberry compote.

This award-winning spa boasts an impressive roster of treatments, from glow-giving facials supercharged by Budapest skincare giant Omorovicza, to knot-busting massages and body wraps and scrubs for the silkiest of limbs. But I was here to sample the partnership with Margaret Dabbs London, which landed earlier this summer.

I booked in for the Ultimate Manicure, an indulgent ritual utilising slick technology and Margaret Dabbs London’s much-lauded products to rejuvenate my hands and nails. My therapist shaped and buffed my nails with a crystal-tipped file before meticulously trimming my cuticles. Next, a rose and lemon-scented hand mask was applied, topped off with a pair of cotton gloves so the product could absorb deeply.

A scrub and soak follows, with a soothing hand and arm massage to buff away dead skin cells, revealing plump, smoothed skin. Whizzy LED hand mitts were then fitted. These space-age mitts use green and red light therapy to target myriad concerns from scarring to age spots. All the while, I enjoyed sparkling wine from the local vineyard, Ridgeview. The treatment culminates with an application of your chosen OPI gel polish — I chose a sugared pink hue. After 80 minutes, I emerged with glossy nails and ultra-soft hands.

The spa offers day packages, but to fully recharge, I’d recommend an overnight stay in the characterful 19th century country hotel. Book a signature suite if you’re seeking a romantic retreat. I stayed in Elizabeth le Bay, an ethereal blush pink space with a bay window overlooking the seemingly endless South Downs. Chintzy floral prints and filigree white rose chandeliers invite the outdoors inside. A feature fireplace and cavernous bath add further warmth. Suites come with extended spa access from 1pm upon check-in until 2pm upon check-out.

Dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant, The Pass, added extra decadence to my visit. Guests can marvel at the kitchen through enormous windows. I watched the stellar team as they constructed the tasting menu’s delicate dishes. Naturally, everything is ceremoniously presented at your table. Standout plates include a refreshing medley of Isle of Wight tomatoes in a punchy consommé topped with a flourish of garden herbs, and a celeriac custard with beef cheek, hen of the woods and truffle shavings. The chocolate délice with almond and cherry struck a decidedly rich note at the end of the meal.

I came to South Lodge to reset and recharge and discovered it offers so much more than a spa stay, with gastronomic excellence, romantic rooms and mind-clearing natural surroundings to boot.

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