When you’re craving some serious self-care, there’s nothing quite like a spa day. It’s the perfect way to unwind, de-stress, and treat yourself to some much-needed TLC. But instead of the usual spa routine, I decided to elevate my experience with a touch of decadence. My destination? The Sofitel Hotel in London’s St James, a stone’s throw from Pall Mall and Waterloo Gardens.
The hotel’s ‘Spa and Spritz’ package promised a luxurious escape. For £130 per person, you’re treated to a 60-minute massage, a three-course meal at Bistrot at Wild Honey, and a refreshing Spritz cocktail on the terrace. It sounded like the perfect recipe for a day of pampering, and I couldn’t wait to dive in.
Upon arrival, we were granted private access to the sauna and steam room for 30 minutes each. It was the ideal way to start our journey towards relaxation, sweating out any toxins while simultaneously leaving our skin feeling incredibly hydrated. Having the sauna and steam room all to ourselves was a luxury, eliminating the awkwardness of sharing with strangers.
Next up was the massage. I opted for a deep tissue massage, and the masseuse skillfully eased away tension and knots in my back. The hour flew by, and by the time it was over, my body felt incredibly relaxed and revitalized. It’s clear that Sofitel lives up to its five-star reputation, going above and beyond with its exceptional customer service and friendly atmosphere.
After our massages, we headed to Bistrot at Wild Honey for lunch, where we had the pleasure of choosing from an al-a-carte menu. The service was impeccable, and the restaurant had a charming Parisian ambiance that made you feel like you were whisked away on a weekend getaway.
For starters, we indulged in pig’s head and courgette flowers – a true highlight of the meal. While some might be hesitant about pig’s head, it was incredibly tender and flavorful, reminiscent of melt-in-your-mouth pork belly. The courgette flowers were equally delightful, offering a satisfying crunch and a burst of fresh flavor.
For our main courses, we opted for Cornish Plaice and a smashed burger. While both dishes were flavorful, they were a bit of a letdown compared to the starters. There was a slight BBQ sauce on the fish that felt out of place, and the burger had an oddly jam-like texture that detracted from its overall taste.
To end our culinary journey on a sweet note, we shared a chocolate tart. It was incredibly rich and decadent, leaving us wanting more.
Our final stop was the outdoor terrace, where we enjoyed classic Aperol and Hugo Spritzes. Thankfully, the British weather cooperated, allowing us to soak up the sunshine with our refreshing cocktails in hand.
Overall, the Spa and Spritz package at the Sofitel London St James was a delightful experience. It was worth every penny and left me feeling completely refreshed, relaxed, and rejuvenated. From the exceptional service to the luxurious amenities, it’s a day of pampering you won’t soon forget.
