North Devon Gazette
Let Yourself Go
They do things properly at Downe Health Spa. Owners of this Hartland haven, Lynda and Jeremy Roe are so determined to make a visit there an enjoyable experience that you would he hard put to find a better – even, I suspect, at The Sanctuary or Champneys.
The couple have sampled other spas and resolved to emulate the best aspects while developing their own style and ambience. They seem to put themselves in the client’s place and understand what is expected and desired.
“I think everything we do should be to the highest standard.” said Jeremy.
“We want people to walk away delighted with what they have had here.” And if my experience is anythingto go by, they are certainly achieving their aim.
The main focus at Downe is on Pamper Days (which you can give yourself or as a gift to someone) which, briefly comprise use of the gym and spa facilities, lunch and tea. Beauty and holistic therapies can be added to this.
You really are made to feel welcome on arrival and then served tea or coffee and left to enjoy your drink in peace and at at your own pace.
After this relaxing start, there is a guided tour of the facilities and an explanation of how to use the equipment. A towelling robe and slippers, a bath sheet, sweat towel and shower cosmetics are provided for the day.
Apart from lunch and tea, clients are free to use any of the equipment and enjoy the day as they please. If they have booked therapies, they will be given the times on arrival.
I enjoyed a Four Layer Facial which was a truly wonderful experience. My therapist explained everything clearly, was both friendly and considerate and had a deft and gentle teach. The facial was relaxing and left my skin feeling clean, fresh and invigorated. In fact, later that evening a friend commented that it looked “glowing”.
Another delightful therapist gave me an aromatherapy body massage which was such a pleasing experience that the hour was up all too soon.
You might wonder how you could fill a whole day (10am til 5pm) at Downe, but with a couple of therapies slotted in, I was unable to fit in use of the spa room: sauna, steam room and spa bath! There was a little time after the aromatherapy and before tea, but it seemed a waste to steam or wash away all the glorious smelling oils that had just been lavished on me. Oh dear, l suppose I’ll just have to treat myself to a return visit!
For more detail about the treatments and facilities, phone or visit the website. The important thing about Downe is that the whole focus of the day is on the your comfort and enjoyment. It is achieved without fuss in spotless, first class facilities.
Lynda and Jeremy believe that the feedback from clients is of “tremendous importance” and any problems are sorted immediately. It may not be as large as some health spas but the couple agree its strengths lie in the intimacy and the location – a quiet rural spot with stunning views out over the Atlantic.
There are also eight, extremely well equipped holiday cottages on site and it is possible to book in for a Pamper Weekend or short. midweek break (cottages are also available for rental separately).
Clients are asked to complete a feedback form after their visit, scoring everything from facilities to food, and adding a comment about anything that would improve the day. It all gets 10 out of l0 in my book.
Chrissie Sawl