I recently visited the Kohler Waters Spa at The Old Course Hotel in St Andrews. Let me tell you, this is the place to go for pure self-indulgence and total relaxation. The spa itself is quite small and intimate; there is a 20 metre swimming pool with its own cascading waterfall, where you can do as many lengths as you can be bothered doing (or you can simply lay by the pool on one of the plush loungers), as well as a Thermal Suite which houses a hydrotherapy pool, a plunge pool, a Japanese steam room, a sauna and a frothy jacuzzi, in which I discovered the Scottish rugby team – thank heavens for the Kohler robes!
After a quick stop in the spa, I spent my time in the rooftop hot tub; it was freezing outside, but the hot tub was warm and peaceful with strategically placed spotlights, wicker furniture and some green shrubbery making for a very stylish rooftop area. I could happily have spent all evening out there with a glass of Champagne and chocolate dipped strawberries. Eventually I had to move, so I relocated to the relaxation area, which lends itself as the “hub” of the spa. Here you will find sofas for chilling out on while you sip your green tea (all soft drinks are on tap here) and read the latest issue of Vogue, Tatler or Conde Nast Traveller.
Just as I was delving into Prince Harry (Tatler) I was called for my Bourbon On The Rocks Pedicure. The Old Course spa do seasonal pedicures (winter pedicures usually involve hot chocolates, while summer pedis make the second-best use of strawberries and cream – first use of such delights being in my stomach) so I was served a glass of apple cider (how very autumnal) while the therapist worked away at my feet with a bourbon-scented brown sugar scrub and honey glaze mask. The treatment was very thorough (around 50 minutes long) and extremely relaxing. The polish application was second-to-none and my therapist’s knowledge of the spa (both at St Andrews and in the USA) was enlightening. It was lovely to see someone so happy at their work, and obviously well treated by their employer. Having run five miles that morning, my poor feet were definitely in need of some pampering and the Bourbon pedi was just the ticket. Almost three weeks later, and my polish is still perfect.
I had a really nice time at the Kohler Waters Spa, it was so good to completely unwind and simply be. The spa at The Old Course is very professional but not intimidating in the slightest, which I can sometimes find to be a problem with luxury spas. The staff are very discreet and everyone seems at ease with one another, whether in a robe, a bathing suit or their gym gear. There is no members-only clique – the spa is very welcoming and is a wonderful place to take some time out for yourself, or to take a day with friends to enjoy the facilities, some lunch and an indulgent treatment.
After my pedicure I was welcome to take time in the relaxation area again but instead, I chose to go upstairs to the bar, where I ordered coffee and enjoyed the view of The Old Course.
I don’t know about you, but I love going to the bathrooms of luxury hotels to see the interiors, and which products they choose for their customers. So, here’s a wee pic of the ladies’ powder room at The Old Course. A white orchid always goes down well in my book!
I had a fabulous facial there last year. I wish I had left myself more time to enjoy the facilities but it was really relaxing and I enjoyed every minute!