Western Morning News, December 2009
Little bit of pampering goes a long, long way.
A pamper day is always a luxury but on a dismally stormy day, lunch and two delicious treats from the Woolacombe Bay Hotel’s Haven Spa left two Westcountry mothers on cloud nine, writes Catherine Barnes.
Having changed, we meandered through the beeswax-scented corridors of the old hotel to its shiny brasserie. A light two-course lunch is included in a spa day package; we had grilled tuna steak salad, followed by a wickedly rich orange chocolate mousse topped with clotted cream. Hell, who wants a slimmer’s special on an indulgence day?
Hannah spent more than an hour smothered in fragrant Monoi oil, covered in a foil wrap. Clare combined her treatment with a head massage and facial, while the oils did their work, leaving Hannah’s skin softened and face feeling bright and fresh.
Verdict: Really wonderful.
Melissa’s Woolacombe Bay Aroma Massage was relaxing and gentle; focusing on the back, before moving to legs, arms, face and head. Then, arms, neck, shoulders and head were all treated with an anti-ageing facial that left my skin soft with a healthy, rosy glow. The treatment certainly sloughed off a few years’ worth of tension even if it couldn’t turn back the clock.
Verdict: Do I really have to get up?
Please click here to read the full review.
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Prima Baby, August 2009
Devon: Perfect for a family holiday.
The hotel is an elegant Victorian pile that conjures up images of a gentler, more refined age.
As its name suggests, it occupies a prime position, overlooking the bay, amid beautiful, lush green gardens that include a children’s adventure playground, heated swimming and paddling pool, tennis courts and even a nine-hole golf course.
Marble steps and a traditional rotating wooden door lead you into the hotel itself, where you are immediately transported back in time by the high ceilings, crystal chandeliers and comfortable lounges.
But while undoubtedly luxurious, the hotel is in no way pretentious, catering very much for the needs of families with young children. From the moment you enter, the warm and relaxed greeting from reception puts you completely at ease.
Please click here to read the full review.
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SAGA Magazine, August 2009
World's Best Spas (The Friendly Spa).
"The spa at The Woolacombe Bay Hotel offers more than 40 treatments. Go for a long brisk walk and then try their signature Woolacombe Bay Aroma Massage, which for 75 minutes at £55 is great value. They use pre-blended oils and it really helps with insomnia, stress and tension. There is also an indoor pool, sauna, steam rooms and spa bath."
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The Western Morning News, May 2009
Perfect spot for a beach holiday.
"Our journey to North Devon was a mixture of mist and rain, but as we drove down the winding roads into Woolacombe Bay the mist cleared and the sun appeared, revealing breathtaking views of miles of golden sand - a beautiful beach nestled between the green National Trust-owned headlands.
Doyle's Restaurant has fantastic views looking across to the island of Lundy, and with the sun setting in the distance is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing dinner with a varied menu that includes the best seasonal local produce. The staff are attentive and the food beautifully presented.
The beach is a regular Blue Flag winner, and in keeping with the Victorian theme there are even old-fashioned swingboats on the sands. Then we headed back to the hotel to relax on the sun loungers on the six-acre lawn, which is perfect for the children to run around and let off steam and where hotel guests can relax and have a picnic (if they don't fancy a sandy sandwich)."
Please click here to read the full review.