Four Highland spas worth visiting

Four Highland spas worth visiting

When it comes to spa breaks Scotland can more than hold its own. The further north you go, the better they get. Set amid some of the most stunning scenery and tranquil surroundings in the UK are a collection of Highland spas well worth checking out. Here, we run the rule over four in the Scottish Highlands, some of which offer enticing last minute spa deals so check online beforehand if you fancy relaxing in style at a discounted rate.

Atholl Palace Spa Hotel

Image courtesy of Atholl Palace

Overlooking the town of Pitlochry, which is a popular region with walkers and has two whiskey distilleries, the Atholl Palace boasts stunning views of the Scottish countryside. This picturesque castle has excellent spa facilities that use the natural spring water from a nearby mountain. A special ‘Pamper at the Palace’ offer includes afternoon tea with a glass of something fizzy and one of five treatments – including ultimate eyes, mini marine discovery and ocean glow – for £39. Take a dip in the heated outdoor pool or spend time instead in the Jacuzzi, plunge pool, steam room, sauna or gym.

Barceló Stirling Highland Hotel

Image courtesy of Barcelo Hotels

Formerly a leading school in Stirling, which is the gateway to the Scottish Highlands, the Barceló has been transformed into a 96-room, four-star hotel that has an unusual feature – a fully-functional observatory! Forget star gazing, though, and head for the spa that specialises in therapeutic skincare. Lie back and enjoy a facial, manicure, massage and pedicure or top up your tan. Relieve stress and tension with a course of reflexology or an Indian head message. Lounge in and around the indoor heated swimming pool or work up a sweat on the squash court before hitting the sauna or steam room. And afterwards, how about a quick drink in ‘The Headmaster’s Study’ or a bite to eat in the ‘Scholar’s Restaurant’? Going back to school has never been so enjoyable!

Crerar Eight Acres Hotel

Image courtesy of Spa Breaks

Just a mile from Elgin is the newly-refurbished Eight Acres, complete with its revamped spa and leisure club. On-site therapist Marion has years of experience in the wellbeing industry and will immediately help you relax, unwind and enjoy some much-needed rest and recuperation. A range of beauty treatments is available, including facials, manicures, pedicures and waxings. One unusual treatment on offer is Hopi ear candles, which can help to sooth and treat conditions of the ear, nose and throat areas. Vapours from the candle gently massage the ear internally and draws out any impurities.

Isle of Eriska Hotel

Image courtesy of Eriska Hotel

Spa settings do not come much more unique than the Eriska, which is located on its very own island near the village of Benderloch. This five-star hotel is extremely lavish, so it’s hardly surprising that the on-site spa is equally luxurious. Take action against the first signs of ageing with a regeneration and firming eye treatment or enjoy the ultimate in body exfoliation with a salt and oil scrub. While the Eriska’s treatment ‘menu’ is expansive, when you’re done pampering yourself, you can do a few lengths in the 17-metre pool, which is kept at a constant temperature of 30c. If you’re feeling a little more energetic, then how about hitting the hotel’s very own nine-hole golf course or driving range for a different kind of recuperation?