The last few months have been a total whirlwind, travelling abroad from location to location for work, I’ve been feeling an equal mix of both gratitude and exhaustion. Today however was a total change of pace, to spend my morning at The Forest Spa at Middleton Lodge estate.

The spa had an immediate calming effect the moment I entered, greeted on arrival with a welcome smoothie I was gently guided to enjoy the life of flip flops and robes for the next few hours. The inviting atmosphere is incredibly well thought out with plenty of plush, comfy seating choices, you can lounge around to your hearts content and slowly wind down. The ideal spot for a good book, magazine or simply a snooze, I could have spent days in there recovering from modern life.

However I had to peel myself away from the comforts of the lounging areas and make the most of the facilities which were equally as brilliant. I’m well known to not be one for ice cold water, but I worked up the courage in the steam room to make my way over to the ice plunge pool right after. It isn’t the time or place to be letting out a cry in shock, so I had to lower myself in slowly bit by bit but I managed it! I can really appreciate the benefits of cold water therapy now as it left me feeling invigorated. Perhaps this in part was from the water but also from my pride of getting in!

Next I took to the swimming pool which brought back the sense of calm, the thoughtfully tiled colour scheme is reminiscent of a private villa set in the South of France, bringing a real sense of luxury. You can skip across from the pool straight into the hot tub and feel that moment of relief as the warm bubbles melt away any muscle aches you’ve been carrying.

After sampling the facilities I felt well and truly relaxed, primed and ready for my Voya Bespoke Facial. The staff guided me to the wooden beauty treatment rooms, through the delight of wild flowers, bumble bees and butterflies that lined the pathway to my room, Room Verberna.

The Voya range the spa uses are based on the luxurious qualities of Southern Irish seaweed. My treatment included their spray mists and facial oils packed with botanical herbs, between the beautiful products and the revitalising massage, I realised just how much I needed to relax and hold less tension around my jawline.

For the final part of my half spa day, I induldged in a delicious two course meal at the Spa Pool, which was delicate, seasonal and carefully thought out to match the ethos of The Forest Spa enrivonment.

Would I got again? Well if my rave review wasn’t clear enough, yes! I hope to be back sometime soon to try out their Voya Seaweed Bath Hut Experience. I’d definitely recommend you go book yourself some self care too, there’s healing in taking time to breathe slow and be present with yourself. You deserve that!

Enjoy, Jo x