Tried and tested - The Grove
Ultimate indulgence
Passing through the gates of The Grove (www.thegrove.co.uk/), we stepped out of our busy life and into a world of ultimate luxury. Just driving up to this 5 star hotel felt like a scene from a period drama. The stunning parkland and immaculate golf course provide the perfect backdrop to the beautiful mansion house. Our car was driven to the nearby car park and all luggage taken up to our room. We didn’t have to lift a finger.
After a Pimms on the terrace, we climbed on board the little golf train which took us to Sequoia, The Grove’s stunning spa. Everything is provided, from towels, robes and hair products to mineral water and juices. Staff are always on hand to help you and, if you’re like us, answer the more simple questions like ‘how do you work the lockers?’ Having lazed in the purified saltwater pool and steam room long enough, we strolled back to the mansion house through the beautiful gardens. The whole atmosphere is so peaceful, you’d never know you’re just down the road from the M25. We went back to our room and laid around for a bit, enjoying the enormous four-poster bed with fluffy pillows. We couldn’t resist the temptation to indulge in a little afternoon snooze.
Following dinner in the restaurant, we enjoyed a leisurely cocktail before heading up to bed. I couldn’t wait to climb in, so after a long soak in the gorgeous free standing bath, we put on a DVD and snuggled down. Every little detail is considered from mood lighting to extra pillows, so that your stay is completely relaxing. And I can honestly say, I had the best night’s sleep in a long time. Waking up with a view of the sunlit gardens was perfect. And it was such a luxury to have a lie in...
...to then be followed by an amazing breakfast in bed. There was such a selection to choose from,
I couldn’t believe my eyes. Simon chose the full English breakfast while I settled down to enjoy tea and croissants with homemade marmalade and fresh fruit salad. It was lovely to be able to read the paper in bed while enjoying freshly made toast, knowing we didn’t have any deadlines, just a whole day set aside for total relaxation.
Having indulged perhaps a little too much, we climbed out from under the duvet and I headed off to Sequoia once more for a full body massage while Simon polished up his golfing skills. My massage left me utterly relaxed, I could have stayed forever.
Our stay at The Grove was totally memorable and unbelievably relaxing. I found it very hard to go back to normal life. This is a hotel where luxury is standard and where all you need to do is lie back and let somebody else take care of things. It’s definitely worth spending that little bit extra and Simon and I will certainly be treating ourselves to this bit of heaven again.