Spring Spa indulgence at Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa
Thursday, May 17, 2018
A few weeks ago I booked myself a day off from work and took myself a little road trip to Aberfoyle to spend the day at Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa.
The morning sickness and exhaustion had been making me feel completely rubbish so a little spa day was exactly what I needed.
The luxury, four-star hotel is located on the banks of Loch Ard. The drive to the hotel was lovely as I visited on a beautifully sunny Friday, the views from the hotel grounds are stunning looking towards the loch. It's hard to believe such beautiful countryside is just a short drive from the bustling centre of Glasgow.
I went for the Spring Age Defy Pro-Collagen Spa Day which costs from just £59 per person. This includes a 55 minute Elemis Pro-Collagen Age Defy Facial, full use of spa facilities, 3 course spa lunch in the hotel restaurant and a glass of Prosecco (or soda & lime for me since I'm pregnant).
I arrived about half an hour early for my 10am appointment and was directed to the changing area by staff in the spa reception.They checked my details and told me where to find towels and how to use the lockers - you'd be surprised at how many times I've been stuck trying to work the locker system with no help at spas.
I changed into my bathing suit and robe and chilled out by the pool with my book until it was time for my appointment. The pool area was nicely heated and very peaceful and featured a medium-sized pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi (I only had a go in the pool though as the others aren't recommended in pregnancy as they raise your body temperature too much).
My therapist then called me through to the spa for my facial. I've had a few Elemis facials in the past so I'm familiar with the scents and products and was really looking forward to it. The spa itself is very tranquil with low lighting throughout which I like - there is nothing worse than coming out from a relaxing treatment too bright lights.
My therapist had a quick chat with me about the treatment and its aims as well as discussing changes she would make due to pregnancy - she'd reduce the amount of some of the oils such as lavender and reduce pressure during the massage parts. I was really impressed at the level of knowledge about this, I was also asked if I wanted the bed lowered or angled or any additional pillows etc to make me more comfortable which was lovely.
The Elemis Pro-Collagen Age Defy Facial helps to rejuvenate and improve the celluar function and firmness of the skin. It includes super active algae, along with Blue Flower Linseed to sone and firm while the Amino Acid complex helps lock moisture deep into the skin - something I was in dire need of because my skin is very dehydrated in general.
The full treatment includes a cleanse, lymphatic drainage, face, neck and décolletage massage, hydrogel eye mask and head massage. Some of the products used include the Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream and Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift Mask (which felt so unusual and amazing).
In all honesty, it was the best facial or even spa treatment I've ever had, my therapist was fantastic and the whole experience was incredibly relaxing. My skin looked a lot brighter and more hydrated afterwards too and I left with a note of products too use which would benefit my skin going forward.
After my treatment I chilled out and read a magazine in the relaxation area before heading back to the pool for a swim (difficult when trying not to get my face wet, I'd recommend getting there earlier and using the facilities prior to your treatment).
Then, after changing, I was escorted to the restaurant in the main hotel for my lunch. I was the only person dining at that time so it was a lovely relaxing experience and felt quite indulgent taking some time for myself.
My meal was lovely I started with a sweet potato and coconut soup followed by a tomato risotto and then sticky toffee pudding. It was very nice and light which was perfect following my spa day.
After lunch I had a quick walk around the hotel grounds before driving home feeling very relaxed. I can't wait to visit again and think I'd definitely book into the hotel for a few days too really make the most of the area.
Macdonald Hotels Spa Collection covers 20 locations across the UK and the Spring Age Defy Pro-Collagen Spa Day offer is available across the range, including Macdonald Forest Hills Hotel & Spa in Aberfoyle; Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa in North Berwick; Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel; Macdonald Inchyra Hotel & Spa near Stirling; Macdonald Berystede Hotel & Spa at Ascot and Macdonald Craxton Wood Hotel & Spa in Chester.
Along with a facial, spa lunch and Prosecco, guests also receive 10% off additional treatments.
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