Alexander House Hotel and Utopia Spa

My mum and I spent half a day at Alexander House Utopia Spa and I have to stay it truly was a 5 star experience. You are instantly put at ease by the tranquil surroundings. As we entered Alexander House we were very impressed. The décor was absolutely luxurious. On entering the Utopia Spa we were greeted with a smile, an introduction to our experience, and a herbal tea with pastries - mmmmm. After reviewing our spa-card timetable my mum decided we should work out at the gym for an hour or so (she's a real fitness bunny but I prefer the 'relaxing' side of a spa experience)! The gym was empty as it was early on a week day so I did my best to keep up with my mum until she decided she couldn't put up with anymore of my moaning, panting and sweating and made the decision to move on. There was a list of classes which we could participate in as part of our experience but I only really enjoy Yoga and Pilates. Due to a severe lack of co-ordination I am unable to participate well in any aerobics classes - I'm not kidding, I got kicked out of ballet at age 5!! As the yoga class wasn't available on our half day we decided to go for a sauna and a swim instead. The sauna was fine. You know, normal sauna experience i.e. HOT! After having a good sweat we had a quick shower and headed for the swimming pool. OH MY GOODNESS the spa experience was worth it just for the swimming pool alone, everything else was a plus. I thought I might have died and actually gone to some kind of luxurious Greek heavenly paradise. Maybe we're just easily pleased, but we were truly blown away. My mum is not a confident swimmer but even she enjoyed swimming through their waterfall feature. The Hydrotherapy Pool was both relaxing and rejuvenating and the soak in the Jacuzzi afterwards was perfect. Back to the changing rooms to prepare for our treatment- and by the way the changing facilities are very nice with lush towels and bathrobes, fresh flip flops, clean shower facilities, hairdryers and lotions. My mum and I had both opted for a facial and we were led to a shared therapy room so we could enjoy the treatment together. The facial was calming and soothing and really did refresh my skin. My mum was advised she would benefit from an exfoliator but my skin was perfect - well I have to have some form of compensation for being uncoordinated right?! We were then led to the relaxation room to unwind after our facial. It's a fantastic room and we happily sank into cushioned loungers, with another herbal tea, to read some magazines before our lunch was served. The room leads out to their outdoor plunge pool and decked lounging area. Unfortunately we were unable to take advantage of this as, guess what, it was raining - that's Britain for you I suppose! Once we had fully unwound we headed for the restaurant where we enjoyed a two course lunch which was both healthy AND delicious, with a nice glass of sparkling water - not quite the same as champagne but very refreshing. We had the most perfect time together. I felt like I was floating when we left the building and headed for the car park. Then horror suddenly struck me and all feelings of tranquility quickly left me when I realised what I had done- I had left my car lights on and I had zero battery left. However with the help of a friendly gardener who happened to be in the car park at the time (and who I will always be eternally grateful to!) we managed to jump-start the car and were on our way home. So in conclusion, apart from getting covered in grease from having to jump-start my car, it was a wonderful, relaxing and cleansing experience which we both thoroughly enjoyed. I would highly recommend Alexander House to anyone. The prices may be higher than some other spas but this is reflected through the quality of the facilities and amenities available. I only wish I could spend a night there to fully appreciate the 'spa' experience at Alexander House and enjoy the acres of beautiful gardens and surrounding countryside. If you want to treat yourself or a loved one you should certainly consider Utopia Spa. rowenasait@yahoo.co.uk - Journalist and Reviewer.