As a Mother of two, and a busy professional I don’t get opportunities like this often, but my stay within “Mallory court Hotel & Spa” was delightful, luxurious and eternally memorable. It was my first within this brand, but I assure you now, it won’t be my last.
A week or so before my Big Day, My Maiden of Honour and I decided that a relaxing approach would best help me prepare, this was true and for this we attended Mallory Court Hotel & Spa.
Our first impression on both hotel and grounds are just WOW! Not only that but on our entrance to the main building we were welcomed by a delightful receptionist who checked us in, explained where our pre-booked spa treatments and evening meal would take place.
In addition, we were informed about anything they could offer that could make our stay more comfortable, such as a paper in the morning or wakeup call which we decided would be a good idea ‘The Bride is only supposed to be fashionably late after all’
We were walked over to The Orchard House where our Superior deluxe twin room was located, the luxurious room was set overlooking breath-taking country side and the bedroom and bathroom combined were huge, I must admit larger than the downstairs of my home.
Our room features included a safe, Nespresso machine (which makes a very good coffee), mini bar, slippers and a USB charger point in addition to the standard room offerings of complimentary Wi-Fi, digital TV with Freeview, desk, hairdryer, telephone, iron and ironing board, bathrobe, ESPA toiletries and turndown service.
We both loved the little personal touches left in the room on our arrival including a welcome letter with information for the Hotel and Spa, a hand-written card and perfectly wrapped cookies. Once settled and slipping into our provided robes we headed off for our treatments in the Elen Spa, we opted for the ESPA back, neck & shoulder massage. We were offered lemon water or herbal tea while we filled out our customer information forms before being taken through to the treatment room.
My therapist asked me about any current stresses, how I was feeling and how I wanted to feel before smelling a selection of oils to decide which one my body needed the most. She then asked about pressure and any areas to work on and of any aches and pains to be aware of. She then advised accordingly.
Once ready, the lights went down, the room lovely and warm with soft music playing in the background she then placed a bowl of oil in front of me and asked me to inhale deeply … and relax.
The hot towels being placed on my skin at the end where especially soothing before my therapist gently whispered that we were finished and asking how I was feeling.
I do tend to have massages whenever possible and this was one of the best I have had, the whole experience was so much more relaxing, and I felt well looked after and as a mum you get used to doing the looking after so this was especially fantastic.
Feeling instantly at ease we decided to use the spa facilities before our evening meal, we spent most of the time sat in the jacuzzi which is located on the terrace and has been aptly named the vitality pool. Lovely and warm and comes with a view of the idyllic country side.
The Orchard House where the Elan Spa is situated offers a wide range of state-of-the-art facilities, beautiful décor and very caring and attentive staff.
For our evening meal, we chose to dine in the new Brasserie which has a more laid-back atmosphere to compliment the more relaxed styled menu.
Light décor, glass tables and beautiful furnishing and art deco finished off with a large open feel thanks to the glass roof and conservatory. The Brasserie has been recognised as an excellent dining destination with the award of two AA Rosettes.
The highlight of the meal for both myself and my guest was the Devon crab to start. Being a huge seafood fan, this really hit the spot. we both agreed we could have eaten at least 10 of these each without giving it a second thought.
I then opted for the honey roast duck confit, lentils and smoked bacon, Morteaux sausage with roast parsnips and I chose a side dish of buttered spinach. The duck was beautifully tender, and the honey glaze gave the duck as succulent and sweet finish.
I find it very hard to refuse a dessert although by this point we both were very full, we requested the desert menu and I decided to order the white chocolate mousse on a biscuit base with a strawberry jus and a rich vanilla ice cream on the side, this was a nice light and fluffy finish to the meal.
Our night’s sleep overall was very good, the beds extremely comfortable, room perfect temperature and I managed to get a restful night sleep ‘as much as bride can, the night before the big day’ waking refreshed. We prepared ourselves for Breakfast in the dining room and a good cup of coffee.
The full English looked very pretty served on its large white plate, the mushrooms very good and my eggs cooked exactly how I like them.
The fruit and sauces served in adorable little bowls and jars with straws was a cute touch. We chose to have breakfast in the dining room and commented how lovely an afternoon tea would be in this room whilst pre-planning our next visit.
My stay at the Mallory Court & Spa was not only a special one but the perfect way to wind down before my Big Day, I felt relaxed on leaving which made a dramatic change to when I first arrived.
The treatments, Spa, rooms, dining experience and food were all fantastic and the staff make it all that more perfect whilst doing everything they can to ensure you have a wonderful stay.
Now I just need to decide if I take hubby for a romantic getaway or enjoy another weekend with the girls for my next visit at the Mallory Court Hotel & Spa.