02 Aug 2017
Ye Olde Bell’s Spa Vision
BY Lauren Heath-Jones
The newly opened multi-million pound Spa at Ye Olde Bell in Retford, England, is already regarded as one of the finest spa and wellbeing experiences in the UK. The 1600 sq m (17,222 sq ft) two-storey new build, designed by global spa and wellness specialist Spa Vision, features ten thermal experiences, indoor-outdoor vitality pool, six treatment rooms with two double rooms, Herb Garden Brasserie, outdoor relaxation areas with alpine lodges and a hair & express beauty salon.
The thermal area offers several unique and authentic thermal experiences supplied and designed by Spa Vision’s and its wellness partner Kurland. The Herbal Laconium uses steam infused with herbs from the Herb garden and is clad in ancient timbers from the uplands of Southern Germany. The Stonebath®, one of only 3 within the UK, features a heated oven and cold water cauldron, creating a theatrical outpour of hydrating steam when the mineral stones are lifted from the oven into the cold water. A traditional Alpine Sauna is clad in Swiss Stone Pine with a distinct aroma and a beautifully designed mosaic Steam Bath with domed ceiling and curved benches offers a delightful high humidity alternative.
As part of the cooling experiences, guests are transported to the mountains of Europe with the custom-made snowstorm experience, SnowBliss®. The first of its kind in the world, guests can select from gentle snow shower or a more powerful snowstorm with lightning and gusts of wind. The hot and cold shower walk features different ambient lighting and sound, warm tropical rain, cold alpine rain, warm summer storm and a cold mist and for those brave enough there is a cold bucket shower to complete the circuit! Relaxation experiences are generous and can be found in the beautifully tranquil Salt Inhalation Room, the outdoor heated mosaic loungers and at the inviting and cleansing central footbath area.
The first floor is exclusively for treatments, generating additional revenue through therapist and non-therapist experiences. Sabbia Med® (sunlight therapy room) recreates the benefits of the sun without the harmful rays and helps to release vitamin D and can help alleviate SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).The Turkish inspired Rasul® is a great for individuals or groups of up to four, featuring a mud cleansing ritual for the whole body or a soap foam experience for an unusual twist. The Treatment Suite feature treatment beds from Living Earth Crafts and exclusive relaxation areas are offered to guests having treatments.
Close Window