Devon Today
The new stone age
In need of escape and revival over the festive period? Natalie Partridge visited the Downe Health Spa in Hartland, North Devon
Downe House is a listed farmhouse dating back to the 15th century. Situated on the tip of the Heartland peninsula, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, it has glorious sea views. It looks north to Lundy Island and west over the Atlantic.
The spa itself is set in rolling farmland that slopes gently to the coast – the nearest neighbours are half-a-mile away.
Arriving at the spa, I was greeted by Jeremy Roe and his wife, Lynda, who gave up life in the city over 10 years ago to start their business at Downe.
Excellence was always at the top of their list when the couple were planning therapies for the spa.
Lynda explained that they don’t believe in a half-hour facial; each treatment is carried out to the highest standard, with even a manicure being a luxurious lengthy treat.
And the couple are clearly smitten with the spa’s location.I’m not surprised. The outstanding setting aside, the spa is tranquil, a place you could easily lose yourself in for hours.
The Spa is fully equipped with a Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. After my tour of the spa I met my therapist for the treatment. I chose the Stone at Downe which is the therapists’ interpretation of a traditional stone therapy, providing the ultimate in relaxation. It is Downe’s signature therapy.
The treatment room has subdued lighting which, with the warm aroma of scented candles and soft music, makes for the perfect sanctuary.
My therapist talked me through the treatment and answered any questions I had and then, for the next hour and a half. I was transported to a level of relaxation that I have never experienced before.
The treatment consists of massage using warm basalt stones smoothed over the ages by the “pure, clear waters of a Peruvian river”. It’s described as a soothing yet deep and profoundly effective treatment. It also incorporates an all-over body massage with essential oils suited to your choice or needs (I had lavender, camomile and geranium) which cocooned me in warmth and melted away stress and tension.
The hot stones were placed on different points of my body throughout the massage to ease tension at the base and either side of my spine. The larger stones were used to achieve a deep massage on areas such as my back and legs, while the smaller stones helped to penetrate pressure points in my hands and feet. The treatment ended with a head and face massage using the oils. Cool stones were then worked over my face and placed over my eyes and temples to seal in the heat and close the pores.
I must admit. before I had the treatment I was slightly dubious about the use of the stones and wondered how they could benefit me, but after experiencing the therapy I was completely sold. The sensations of the stones were incredible; like nothing I have experienced before. I left the treatment room feeling extremely serene.
In the conservatory I was greeted by Lynda, who presented me with a homemade Devon cream tea! Not what you may imagine from a health spa, but definitely appreciated – Lynda’s motto being: “You’re only here for a day so you may as well enjoy it.”
I had just one of the treatments offered at Downe but there is a whole range of spa treatments to choose from, all carried out by trained therapists who believe in the ideals set by the owners of Downe.
Downe Health Spa also offers pamper days, perfect for peace and relaxation.
The care at Downs is exceptional: the clients’ comfort and enjoyment is the entire focus of the pamper day. Jeremy and Lynda also pride themselves on their personalised gift certificates which make a lovely present for someone who deserves a little relaxation. With Christmas just around the corner this may just be the present you’ve been looking for!