When we arrived at the newly opened Thermae Bath Spa (www.thermaebathspa.com/), just a short walk from our hotel, it was clear that this was the ideal relaxing haven in the heart of historic Bath. A place to leave the worries of the day – and the busy Bath shoppers – far behind.
Behind the stunning Georgian facades, the spa building is a contrast of modern simplicity, with glass walls and clean white décor. Once inside, it was time to switch off and relax. With towel, dressing gown and slippers provided, all we needed were our swimsuits.
On each level of the spa, there is something to surprise and delight. On the basement level, the New Royal Bath is a fusion of old and new, with the gorgeous Georgian walls visible from every angle. The Minerva Bath, with its mineral-enriched natural thermal waters, was a treat. We floated on the gentle whirlpools and currents, then drifted over to the Jacuzzi where we were engulfed in warm bubbles.
On the next level are the tranquil treatment rooms. They offer an amazing array of treatments to make you feel a million miles away. A signature treatment is the Watsu – a unique sensation of being gently guided and massaged in the thermal waters. I decided to treat myself to a traditional Pantai Luar treatment while Helen joined a yoga class. The warm oils were gently massaged into my skin using a stamp of spicy herbs. The experience allowed me to completely unwind and my skin was left feeling soft and renewed. After the treatment, I stretched out in the Hot Bath, a small private thermal pool exclusive to those having treatments. It was delightful to lay back in the pool with only my own thoughts to contend with.
Upstairs, we discovered four circular glass steam rooms to soothe our souls. Each steam room is infused with an essential oil and has its own dramatic contrast of soothing light. The invigorating eucalyptus steam room cleared our senses while the lavender steam room allowed us to really relax. As we stepped out of the steam, the central waterfall shower delivered a rush of refreshing water to cool us down.
Finally, we took the lift to the open-air rooftop pool and took in the breathtaking views of the city of Bath and the surrounding countryside as we were gently massaged by the bubbling airseats. It was amazing to see the World Heritage skyline from the comfort of the pool; the view was spectacular and really topped off our day.
This is the perfect place to escape and unwind without leaving the city. While on a weekend break, you can pop in for an inexpensive spa session and spend your day restoring your spirits. In such historic settings, you can understand why this ritual is proving as popular today as with our Roman ancestors.