Is there anything better than a spa day? Throw in some girlfriends, a treatment or 2 and lunch – and, you’re all set for a day of pampering. Thanks to the team at Solent Hotel & Spa this was a reality. Although, this spa day wasn’t a ‘normal’ girl’s spas day! This was a ‘bloggers’ only spa treat. This meant I got to catch up with some of my favourite ladies I have met on this blogging journey as we reviewed the facilities – tough job but someone has to do it!
The 4* Solent Hotel & Spa in Fareham also has the added bonus of feeling like the middle of the countryside but, is easily accessible from London (under 2 hours) and the coast – it’s near Portsmouth and Southampton. It felt like the perfect countryside escape. And, the fact it was the day before my birthday made the day feel even more of a treat.
Alongside my friend Heledd from Running in Lavender I also spent the day with Amy from Everything Mummy, Donna from What the Redhead Said and Rosie from Mummy & Boo – we popped on our robes and got to work…
Our morning started with a lovely welcome meeting, tropical smoothies and fruit plates before we were given a tour. We viewed the pool area (a full size so you can do lengths at leisure), treatments rooms (there is 8, as well as a double spa treatment room with outside hot tub) and spa facilties (sauna, steam room, spa pool and relaxation room).
Then we were handed our fluffy robes and slippers – and the day could really begin. Pool side lounging and chatter, a dip in the pool, some light reading, a sneaky nap and complimentary tea/coffees, water, fruit and sweet treats were available all day too to keep us going.
We all had treatments booked too. Solent Hotel & Spa use Caudalie – a premium French beauty brand. I went for the Caudalie Lifting & Firming Eye Treatment – I was turning 43 the next day after all! This 25 minute treatment is said to brighten the delicate area around the eyes. Starting with delicate cleaning and massage, a hydrogel patch (concentrated with red vine, horse chestnut and ivy leaf) is applied and helps smooth features, diminish dark circles and instantly reduce puffiness. I have to say my eye area did feel lifted and brighter afterwards – and, I appeared less tired. I would normally choose a facial so this was a new one for me – and, would definitely have an eye treatment again. It felt good to have a ‘concentrated’ beauty fix.
Lunch was a relaxed affair in the spa lounge area. We could dine in our robes – I do love a spa where you can have lunch with having to get dressed or have to head to the hotel restaurant. It somehow makes the day flow better and doesn’t ruin that sense of calm and relaxation. I went for the Greek Meze Bento Box – and it was delicious, followed by a creamy rhubarb fool. And, not to heavy for an afternoon of more… lounging.
Our afternoon was spent learning more about Caudalie – and we were given a skincare lesson. Which being over 40 years old, you would think I would have that sussed but, amazing what you can still learn. I learnt I have been rushing my routine, not cleansing as best as I could and dragging my skin. I guess when you become a mum all about in-and-out of bathroom as fast as you can. I have since slowed down my cleansing, toning and moisturising – especially in the evening.
Also, if you haven’t tried Caudalie you must! I have used many of their wonderful products especially the Beauty Elixir which I often have on my desk at work. Learning how the founder launched this range to use up all the byproduct of the grapes used to make wine on her parents vineyard in France was fascinating. Truly no waste – the vines, seeds and excess grape waters is all used. We also had a sneak peak of the new sincere collection – the new Beautifying Suncare Oil smells like ‘a holiday in a bottle’ and has no greasy feel which is a must for me on holiday.
With a little more time to hit the spa, before showers and home time. We said our goodbyes with a glass of bubbles and a Caudalie gift bag which completed what was a lovely way to start the short week.
Would I recommend? Absolutely – finding the right balance of spa facitiles, quality yet, affordable treatments and space to well, breathe with a bunch of girlfriends is top of the list for a perfect spa day for me. Maybe, throw in an overnight stay too (the award winning hotel and restaurant looked pretty chic too) and you really can’t go wrong.
Disclaimer: I was invited to review the Solent Hotel & Spa for free – but I was not paid for this post in any other way. All views are my own
