If you’ve read my blog before, you might know that I’m fond of spa days and hotel stays. So when the Celtic Manor Resort invited me (and Phil) to experience both at their hotel, I was a very happy girl! This is quite a photo-heavy post but the hotel was so nice, I couldn’t help but take lots of pictures to show you all.
We were spoiled with a spacious room from the Signature Collection which are designed for adults only and have been recently been refurbished to the highest standard with a calming, light and modern feel. The room had lots of lovely features including a 6ft king-size double bed, sitting area complete with a selection of magazines, marble bathroom and balcony with amazing views.
How incredible is the bathroom? Not only does the marble look stunning but it also has a large vanity unit, bath, a separate shower as well as a host of Elemis amenities so I felt like I had everything that I needed. Plus, a hotel which stocks Elemis goodies is always winner with me!
We were also given a complimentary bottle of wine and chocolate selection on arrival, which was a welcome surprise. And one which Phil very much appreciated!
Signature guests also have access to the exclusive Signature Lounge on the sixth floor. This was a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy complimentary tea or coffee, newspapers and magazines. There was even a private bar!
While Phil relaxed in the Signature Lounge, I was treated to a pampering session at the award-winning Forum Spa.
I didn’t take many photos inside because I didn’t want to ruin the tranquil atmosphere for anyone else but I can tell you that it was full of soft ambient lighting and aromatic scents, like a luxurious spa should have. I felt calm and rejuvenated from the moment I walked in!
I had the Elemis Thousand Island Flower Detox Wrap which was exciting as I’ve had several massages and facials before but never a body wrap. This particular wrap was amazing as it helped detoxify and left my skin feeling cleansed, smooth and soft. Afterwards I felt completely reinvigorated, restored and relieved of all stress. I couldn’t ask for more! A huge thank you to my professional and welcoming therapist Debra who made the whole experience even better.
After my spa treatment, it was time to get ready for dinner at the Signature restaurant Steak on Six. The dress code was smart casual so I wore this white REISS dress and black accessories. Getting dressed up is so much fun!
Steak at Six is situated on the sixth room (so we didn’t have to walk far!) and has already earned two AA Rosettes with its contemporary dining and rustic vibes. It has spectacular views over Coldra Woods and is adult-only dining, making it great for those who want a peaceful meal in a unique setting.
To start, I went for the textures of cauliflower which was mousse, soused and charred cauliflower with pan-fried scallop, granola and summer leaves. Scrumptious!
Phil chose the whole jamon cerdo de campo ham, authentic Iberian ham from acorn-fed pigs which was carved at the table and served with roasted peaches, watercress and balsamic dressing.
For the main, I opted for the seared sesame coated tuna with charred sweetcorn, potato, avocado and wasabi. I’m not a big meat eater so this was the ideal dish for me. I also had a grilled lobster tail with herb butter on the side because I’m greedy.
Phil had the Irish beef fillet but couldn’t resist a grilled lobster tail on the side either. We also had French beans, bacon and shallots, potatoes and chantenay carrots with butter to share.
We were both very full after a wonderful starter and main course but as the saying goes, there’s always room for dessert! I went for the roasted pineapple with coconut espuma while Phil chose the chocolate orange whisky with orange sauce and white chocolate powder. Both were heavenly!
Following dinner, we went to the Signature Lounge again to enjoy a late-night cocktail before going back to our room. Housekeeping had even left an Elemis Lip Balm on my pillow as part of the turn-down service which made my day!
The next day, we woke up early to make the most of the Hotel facilities. The first stop was breakfast, which was at the same restaurant as we dined in the night before.
There was plenty of choice – everything from cereals to pastries to fresh fruit to hot ‘English Breakfast’ foods and cold meats, cheeses and breads. Breakfast is my favourite meal of the day so I loved the wide choice.
After breakfast, we made the most of the gym, steam room, swimming pool before heading home. The gym equipment was fantastic, it was great to watch TV whilst running on the treadmill! The steam room and swimming pool was also worth a visit – pure bliss!
Overall, the stay was exceptional. It was completely faultless from start to finish and I cannot thank the staff enough for making us feel so special. What a hotel! We cannot wait to come back. Until next time, Celtic Manor Resort!
* The Celtic Manor Resort invited me to stay in exchange for a feature but my opinions remain honest and unbiased.
