Aquitaine, Surrey

Aquitaine suite, Runnymede-on-thames hotel

Runnymede-on-thames hotel

The runnymede-on-thames hotel and spa might not be an obvious choice for a relaxing weekend away, being situated just off the motorway near Heathrow Airport, but what I discovered confirmed that you definitely should never judge a hotel by its cover.

I openly admit to being a bit of an interior-design snob, especially when it comes to hotels, but I couldn’t find fault with the runnymede-on-thames’s décor choices. Tasteful furniture and quirky art installations create a boutique feel, and floor-to-ceiling windows utilise the relaxing riverside vista – perfectly setting the scene for an unwinding spa stay.

Aquitaine lounge, Runnymede-on-thames hotel
Runnymede-on-thames hotel

The light and airy spa boasts whirlpool, indoor pool, saunas, steam room, gym and comfortable relaxation rooms to lounge around in. Whilst a whole host of treatments, including a fantastic range of facials and massages, will leave you preened and polished, using a range of ESPA, Guinot and Clarins products.

However, for complete luxury, book into Aquitaine - the hotel’s indulgent private spa suite. Aquitaine can be booked post treatment for an extra-special touch, or for a whole day as part of a package, complete with dedicated spa host, champagne lunch and goodies galore.

Set downstairs from the main spa, the Aquitaine suite feels secluded and private, with use of private shower and changing room facilities, and your very own treatment room just off the lounge area.

Relaxing in Aquitaine, Runnymede-on-thames hotel
Runnymede-on-thames hotel

The suite comes complete with comfy sofas, TV and DVD player, with a selection of DVDs, massage chair and a small kitchen area where you can help yourself to fruit juices, water, tea and coffee all day. One of the most luxurious elements of the spa is the dedicated spa host who looked after us all day – bringing us food and drink and making sure we were happy at all times.

The day kicks off with teas and coffees in the morning and when we arrived, a tray of pastries, muffins, fruit and chocolates awaited. After some chill-out time, our brilliant spa host brought us our champagne lunch, with an Asian platter and a Mediterranean platter – which included some delicious sushi, falafel and all manner of goodies, washed down with a glass of fizz.

After some lulling around on the sofa in super-soft dressing gowns, it was treatment time. With the treatment room adjoining the suite there was no need to be roused from our slumber, as we were led onto the nearby heated beds. After a brief consultation to assess skin types, it was time to be cocooned in a cosy blanket that had me wanting to drift off and never return.

Spa pool, Runnymede-on-thames hotel
Runnymede-on-thames hotel

I opted for the signature Crystal facial, which included relaxing lymphatic drainage massage using rose quartz crystal to calm and soothe my skin. After gentle cleansing and exfoliation of face and neck, cold crystals were expertly used to massage and calm my winter-weary skin. A hydrating mask followed, whilst a neck and shoulder, hot-stone massage left me completely relaxed. A warm clay hair mask topped off the indulgent affair. Not only was the treatment carried out with expert precision, but it left my skin feeling extremely hydrated and revitalised.

A short waddle back to the sofa and I was soon being served afternoon tea, with a selection of sweet treats and a fruit platter to feast on whilst we watched a film from the DVD collection. The massage chair was also put to good use, with the mechanical bed-like equipment surprisingly working out all my knots and tensions.

Although I personally never need an excuse to be pampered, the suite is perfect for anyone wanting to celebrate a special occasion. Whether it’s a landmark birthday or a pre-wedding preening session with a hen party, Aquitaine is the ultimate in spa luxury.

the runnymede-on-thames

Egham, Surrey TW20 0AG, UK

Tel: (01784) 220 960.

Website: www.therunnymede.co.uk

Price: A double room costs from £159 including breakfast, whilst a day in the Aquitaine suite cost from £110 per person.