Last month I spent a day at the newly refurbished Imperia Spa at Gleddoch Golf and Spa Resort, and it was exactly what I needed. You know that point when work, life and weather all pile up at once and you just need to escape somewhere peaceful? That was me. So, I booked a spa day, grabbed my partner, and off we went to Langbank for some proper relaxation.

It’s only about twenty minutes from Glasgow but feels much further once you’re there. The drive through the Renfrewshire hills is beautiful, and when you finally reach the hotel you can see the Clyde Estuary stretching out below. You instantly feel calmer.

First Impressions

When we arrived, we checked in and filled out our treatment forms while enjoying a complimentary health smoothie, which was a lovely touch.

The spa itself is absolutely stunning. All calm neutrals, soft textures and elegant details. The first thing you notice is how fresh and modern it feels: plush curved chairs, pale marble floors, warm lighting and gold accents that make the whole space glow. It’s luxurious without being over the top — more quiet sophistication with a touch of Scandi calm. Everything feels beautifully thought out, from the cosy seating areas to the sleek locker rooms with Dyson hairdryers, marble vanity stations and golden taps that make even getting ready feel like a treat.

Once we were in our robes (and I can confirm they are extremely fluffy), we had a little wander around before heading for our treatments.

Treatments

I chose the 30-minute Elemis Back, Neck & Shoulders Massage (£65), and it was absolutely lovely. My therapist checked the pressure before starting, and it was just right - enough to ease the tension but still deeply relaxing. I could have happily stayed there for another hour.

My partner had the Temple Spa version of the same treatment (also £65 for 30 minutes) and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Afterwards, we spent some time in the relaxation area, which has heated waterbeds that are so comfortable I could easily have fallen asleep there for the rest of the day.

Thermal and Spa Experiences

The main pool area is beautiful: dark, dramatic and very photogenic. The ceiling is almost like a mirror, which makes it feel enormous. It’s the kind of space where you can float around for ages and properly unwind — although I did manage a couple of lengths for health purposes, of course.

My favourite feature was the sensory shower. I know that sounds simple when there’s a huge sauna and jacuzzi pool, but it was brilliant. You can adjust the temperature, scents and even the type of “rain” it sprays, and I kept going back because it was so refreshing.

The thermal area is equally impressive. There’s a Himalayan salt sauna, two steam rooms, an ice fountain and heated loungers. You can just drift between them and lose track of time — it’s the kind of place that slows you down without you even realising it.

The outdoor panorama spa was having some work done when I visited, so I didn’t get to try it this time, but everything else was perfect. I’ll definitely be back to experience it when it reopens because the views from outside are incredible.

Dining and Details

We didn’t eat in the spa this time as we had a reservation at the nearby Coast, Langbank, later in the afternoon, but a few weeks earlier I went to the launch party and tried some of the menu. It was delicious, with plenty of vegetarian options too, which I always appreciate. Everything was beautifully presented and full of flavour, and I’d definitely plan to have a proper spa lunch next time I visit.

We did have a few drinks poolside though, which was lovely. The bar is accessible directly from the spa so you don’t need to leave your robes. I had a little glass of pink fizz and my partner had a fancy coffee — the perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely loved my day at Imperia Spa. The space feels calm, modern and properly luxurious without being intimidating. The facilities are fantastic, the staff were lovely and the whole place has a really peaceful, welcoming atmosphere.

It’s close enough to Glasgow for an easy day trip but far enough away to feel like a proper escape. Prices reflect the high-end setting, but the quality of the experience makes it well worth it.

If you’re planning a visit, book your treatments in advance, give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the thermal areas and don’t rush through it. Bring a book, take your time getting ready at the gorgeous vanity stations and just switch off for a while.

I left feeling lighter, calmer and completely reset. Exactly what a good spa day should do.

Visit the Gleddoch Golf and Spa Resort website to find the latest deals and book your visit. 

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My spa visit was complimentary for review purposes, but treatments and drinks were paid for by myself.