Cornwall is famed for the rugged outdoors, beautiful coastal scenery, and bracing sea air. And whilst being out in the elements is the perfect way to reinvigorate the mind and the body, constant exposure to sun, sea, and saltwater can take its toll on the skin. Fortunately, Cornwall has some of the world's best spa facilities, just waiting to restore a perfect complexion. And even if you haven't been marching around the coastal footpaths or spending endless hours splashing in the waves, just being in Cornwall is the perfect excuse to book a treatment at one of the county's finest spas.
We've chosen 5 of the very best spas Cornwall has to offer.
1) The Headland Hotel Spa and Aqua Club, Newquay
This iconic building houses not only a jaw-droppingly impressive spa, discreetly buried underground to make the most of the panoramic coastal vistas, but also a brand new Aqua Club that is home to six pools, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and a sun terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you're looking to indulge in a sumptuous treatment, take in the beautiful surroundings with family and friends, or enjoy a post-swim meal, The Aqua Club has been designed and decorated to reflect the local Cornish landscape, and will certainly have something for you.
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2) The Scarlett Hotel, Mawgan Porth
Selling itself as a luxury eco-sanctuary on the rugged clifftops overlooking Mawgan Porth beach, the spa at the Scarlett Hotel is a unique place to switch off the outside world and indulge in the richness of natural living. As an adults-only retreat, peace and quiet are guaranteed, so the only thing you need to decide is what you're going to enjoy first: the sauna, steam room or pool? When you've finished in the water, a comprehensive list of treatments awaits, and taking place in a tented, lantern-lit room, your time at the Scarlett Spa is sure to be a memorable experience.
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3) Watergate Bay Hotel & Spa, Watergate Bay
The Watergate Bay Hotel works hard to blend luxury with the great outdoors. A place for active relaxation, the team at the Watergate have combined the indoor spa with a contemporary beach hotel. Boasting an infinity pool that stretches out to the horizon, a range of fitness classes and strength training programmes, a comprehensive menu of massage and manicure, this is one Cornish spa that works for all members of the family, whatever their age.
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4) The Nare, Carne Beach, The Roseland Peninsular
A bit of a drive from Padstow, owing to the fact that it's situated on the opposite coast, this hidden gem is one of Cornwall's best-kept secrets. Known as the country house hotel by the sea, and proudly sitting above its own cove, the simple yet luxurious spa facilities and treatments perfectly suit the understated elegance. Choose from a range of massage, reflexology, facials, waxing, manicures and pedicures, and whilst you're here, it would be a shame not to continue your experience with lunch on The Quarterdeck terrace or a stroll along Carne beach. Special packages are available specifically so non-residents may use the hotel's fabulous facilities and enjoy treatments in the spa.
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5) The Pig Hotel & Spa, Harlyn Bay
For an equally unforgettable experience, The Pig Hotel at Harlyn Bay does spa treatments like nowhere else. Hidden behind their kitchen garden and wildflower beds, the rustic retreats at The Pig are located in the hotel's potting sheds, providing unrivalled tranquillity and calm. Taking inspiration from the herbal surroundings and coastal location, you can experience deeply relaxing treatments using products made only with natural and organic ingredients. After a day on the beach or a long walk along the headland, wind down with a full body massage or sugar scrub, or feel the healing powers of the sea with a hydrating body wrap or rejuvenating facial.
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So that's our recommendation for the best spas to visit in Cornwall. All of the places we've mentioned are open to non-residents, but it goes without saying that due to their popularity and prominence, they can get busy. If you are visiting Padstow and want to enjoy a spa treatment, we'd recommend booking before you arrive. And if you're looking for somewhere to stay, check out the Padstow Breaks homepage for a choice of luxury accommodation conveniently located in one of Cornwall's most popular harbour towns.
