North Devon Gazette
The last word in indulgence
Set amidst seven acres of stunning North Devon coastal scenery on the Hartland Peninsula, Downe Health Spa offers clients an extensive range of beauty therapies and perhaps the last word in relaxation and indulgence.
The complex houses a spacious spa, state-of-the-art gymnasium, treatment rooms, lounging areas and a dining conservatory and provides a host of holistic therapies such as reflexology, aromatherapy massage, sports and Indian head massage.
Alongside these therapies, the spa provides an extensive and expert range of seaweed-based skin and bodycare treatments.
Seaweed contains all the vitamins and minerals necessary to stimulate the skin’s own natural defences to protect against the ravages of ageing, environmental pollution and damage. It purifies and detoxifies and the result is healthier, glowing skin.
Among some of the many beauty treatments available are body wraps, facials, manicures and pedicures.
- The Sea Escape Stone Facial and Body Therapy at Downe utilises various sized hot and cold sea stones as massage aids during a 90-minute treatment. They are placed on key pressure points on the body to relieve tension in conjunction with reflexology and lymphatic drainage for complete face and body relief. Layers of fresh European seaweed rejuvenate, tone and firm the skin and together with a relaxing foot and hand massage create a superb spa experience.
- The Thalassotherapy Seaweed Body Treatment at Downe is based on European Thalassotherapy. Fresh seaweed is warmed to body temperature and then smoothed over the skin to create a warm thermal blanket to help relieve stress and invigorate sore, stiff muscles. A shower completes the experience, leaving you feeling newly recharged and balanced.
- The Four Layer Facial at Downe is a wonderfully luxurious facial with layers of pure, fresh European seaweed used to rejuvenate, tone and help firm the skin. Two massages follow and then a cool seaweed mask is applied, followed by a mineral rich thermal mask that allows for total penetration of the layers and leaving the skin feeling cleaner, healthier and looking more radiant.
- The Honey Body Polish at Downe indulges the body with pure honey, almonds and fresh buttermilk. This natural cleanser and exfoliator is massaged on the skin, helping to purify and slough off dead skin cells. After a warm shower, a luxurious seaweed cream is massaged into the body leaving the skin silky smooth.
The spa includes an octagonal spa bath with whirlpool jets, a sauna and a steam room as well as panoramic views across the springled lily pond to the coast from the lounging area.
Equipped with Life Fitness and Concept 11 equipment, free weights, exercise bench and mats, the beautifully furnished, spacious, light and airy gym looks out to Lundy Island while the four well-equipped therapy rooms and a delightful conservatory look over the Atlantic Ocean.
Both facilities are maintained at the ideal temperature and humidity levels by air conditioning and dehumidification systems.
As well as offering individual therapies, Pamper Days are also available and can be tailor-made to include clients preferred combination of treatments as well as use of the gym and spa, and a light lunch. Pamper Days can also be incorporated into a holiday or short break in one of the centre’s adjoining luxury cottages.
Celebration Days for groups of eight or more provide a superb way of celebrating a birthday, anniversary or upcoming wedding with a group of friends or family and offer exclusive use of the gym and spa for the day and a special celebration lunch. Gift certificates are also available.