Spa heaven in the Forest

What could be better than spending a weekend in the heart of a beautiful national park? Spa breaks don’t come more relaxing than this, says Jo Wheatley

My previous experience of staying in the New Forest involved squeezing into a tiny tent, so when the opportunity arose to stay at the luxurious Carey’s Manor Hotel & SenSpa, and in a proper bed, I jumped at it. Turning the car into the sweeping drive I caught sight of the grand manor house, dating back to William the Conquerer  – my ideal picture of a country retreat. Relaxation is key here and carrying your own bags is a no no – I’d barely stopped the car before a member of staff came rushing out to greet me and take my luggage to my room. I stayed in a spacious Rosewood Garden Room – with such fabulous views across the gardens, who wanted to bother with repeats of Friends on the flatscreen TV?
Keen hikers, riders and cyclists would be in their element with acres of forestland in this glorious National Park right on their doorstep. But for those who don’t want to venture too far, the charming village of Brockenhurst is just a stone’s throw away. Explore the quaint shops and see in the ponies and cattle wandering wild and grazing on the green.
I preferred to exchange my walking boots for a robe and spend the day in the state-of-the-art Thai SenSpa. Boasting a hydrotherapy pool, herbal sauna, crystal steam room and ice room among other facilities, I was in heaven, only tearing myself away for a relaxing Manuka honey facial. Not only great to eat, this superior honey from New Zealand has skin healing properties and it certainly did an excellent job for my parched complexion.
A tasty, yet healthy, meal in the Zen Garden restaurant, one of three restaurants on the complex, rounded off my perfect stay. The next time I visit the New Forest, I’ll definitely be leaving my tent pegs behind.

• To find out more about Carey’s Manor Hotel & SenSpa visit www.careysmanor.com or call 01590 624467.