On the Downe Blog, you'll find get the latest news, updates and specials from Downe Cottages, Downe Health Spa and Downe Weddings.

Downe is located near Hartland in North Devon and has stumming views across the Atlantic Ocean and to Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel.

It's a perfect place to go for a relaxing cottage holiday, a pamper day or pamper break at a luxury spa or for a venue for a civil wedding in a magical setting.

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A day here is like a hug from a favourite aunt. Situated on a former farm on the North Devon coast, you park in a barn (expect to get swooped and pooped on by swallows), and stay in a holiday cottage, created from a farm building. But the entrance is an underwhelming conservatory with plastic, marble-effect tables, and the relaxation area is a few sofas and coffee tables liberally stocked with boiled sweets and magazines, so don't come here expecting an Asian-style or clinical whitewalled spa aesthetic.

BEST TREATMENT: The treatments here are unique and exceptional. The Holistic Relaxation Therapy involves a sequence of steam inhalation, hot towels, massage and Thai stretching techniques - you don't know whether you're asleep, awake or floating along the coastline.

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A spa in North Devon

Downe is a collection of eight luxurious self-catering holiday cottages (sleeping two to six) situated on the Hartland Peninsula in North Devon in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with glorious sea views looking out to Lundy Island and the Atlantic. Guests can have breakfast baskets or fresh, locally cooked gourmet meals delivered to their cottage. Adjoining the cottages and sharing the overall tranquillity of the site is the Downe Health Spa, which offers a wide range of beauty treatments and holistic therapies. As well as facials, body wraps, manicures and pedicures, you can indulge in holistic therapies, which include a variety of aromatherapy massages, Indian head or sports massage, ear candling, reflexology and warm basalt stone therapy.

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Downe Health Spa
Are you a city worker that dreams of a beautiful, relaxing, weekend country escape that doesn't eat in to your annual holiday allowance or take up much of your time travelling? If so, I've got the perfect break: How about a listed farmhouse dating back to the 15th century converted into luxury cottages complete with an indulgent spa?

Editor's highlights:

Witnessing a blanket of stars, the Milky Way and breathing in fresh sea air just three hours out of London.

Having the luxury and privacy of a self-catering cottage in such close proximity to a professional and well organised spa with heavenly treatments.

Knowing that the spa was exclusive to only a sprinkling of guests, unlike large hotel spas where things can sometimes get a bit crowded.

Feasting on the luxury lunch freshly prepared with local and home grown ingredients by our therapist.

Taking a refreshing and invigorating walk in the country, down to the wild, rugged and romantic coastline of the Hartland peninsula.

A stunning retreat
Downe Health Spa is situated on the stunning Hartland peninsula in North Devon and offers luxury cottages and an amazing spa experience at an affordable price. Myself and my partner were lucky enough to visit this remote part of the UK and indulge in a refreshing and rejuvenating weekend at the spa and cosy self-catering cottages at Downe.

It couldn't have been simpler to organise! Jeremy and Lynda Roe offer excellent client service from the first communication on the telephone, right through to dropping you off at the station to come home at the end of your visit.

London to Tiverton Parkway in just over two hours!
My partner and I work in London and hadn't envisaged a weekend in Devon to be so simple. But on learning that the train from London Paddington to Tiverton Parkway takes just over two hours and that we would be greeted by Jeremy and Lynda at the station at the other end, we agreed that from the offset of our journey, our weekend would be completely stress free and easily manageable. So one Friday evening, that's exactly what we did.

The journey from Tiverton Parkway to the spa takes less than an hour and we arrived at our delightful country cottage, in what felt like the middle of nowhere well before 11pm. As soon as we stepped out of the car, the strong smell of salty sea washed all the week's city stress away. Downe is a magical place and this particular night was crisp and clear. The sky was filled with thousands of stars and I can't remember the last time I saw the Milky Way so clearly!

Awaiting our arrival on the kitchen table of our luxury cottage, was a plate of local cheeses, a bottle of red wine, some yummy chocolates and two home made trifles. A couple of glasses of wine and a plate of cheese and crackers later, we were ready for bed and looking forward to our pamper day ahead.

The Downe Health Spa
We were lucky with the weather on the Saturday. Despite the winter season having kicked in, the sun was shining and the views of the sea just over a mile away, were very clear from our cottage bedroom window. Rolling farmland and countryside lead from the cottages down to the coast.

Our day couldn't have been easier. All we had to do was roll out of bed, shower and eat the continental breakfast provided in our kitchen before walking 20 seconds from our front door over to the health spa.

On our arrival at around 10am, we were introduced to the head therapist who showed us around the gym and spa, then sat us down with coffee and biscuits and gave us a program for the day. Our order for lunch was taken and we were then left to utilise the day in whichever way we wished. I thought I'd better start of with a blast on the cross trainer, followed by another cuppa and then some time in the steam room...

A personal touch
After a delicious lunch consisting of a club sandwich and salad (no diet food here - unless you ask for it) I experienced my first treatment. My therapist Kay gave me both a paraffin foot wax and an aromatherapy body massage. Kay doesn't just have a magic touch; she's also an absolute pleasure to spend time with. This is the difference when you visit a small and personal spa like Downe. There were less than ten of us in total visiting, which gave us the opportunity to really relax and have more of a personal tailor-made experience. Kay remembers clients from over a year ago and has frequent visits from regulars. Kay and the team have time to mix the massage oils according to your needs and they really listen to what you want from your experience. The day starts at 10am and finishes at 5pm. What do you do that takes 7 hours you may ask? Believe me, the day flies by. After a work out, then a break... a steam and sauna, then lunch... some treatments and then another break... followed by a final dip in the whirlpool... and then scones with cream and jam! It's all glorious and it takes up all your time.

You don't need to get changed into your clothes to go back to your cottage in the evening. You simply just pad back over in your cosy slippers and dressing robe. On return to your cottage, once again, you have cheese, choccies and red wine waiting for you.

A romantic evening
We'd borrowed a couple of DVDs from the comprehensive collection on offer and Jeremy had ensured we were well stocked up with logs for the fire. So we were all set for a cosy night in, fully pampered and totally relaxed. That night there was rain... this wasn't a disappointment. Our bedroom was up in the rafters and for me, there's nothing more atmospheric than the elements intervening somehow. The rustling of the wind in the chimney and the patter of rain on the roof were soothing sounds to fall asleep to.

A rugged, wild and beautiful country
Sunday morning, we awoke in our own time. Unlike hotels and B&Bs, there was no check out time... we simply gave Jeremy and Lynda our train times and they agreed to pick us up at an agreed spot, to take us back to the train station. Our train wasn't booked until late afternoon which gave us plenty of time to explore the local area.

It doesn't take long to get down to the coast. It's a good mile away, but the invigorating walk is a feast for the eyes and food for the soul. The dramatic cliffs and black sandy beach offer spectacular photo opportunities as well a wonderful playground for locals walking their dogs. We took a local map with us and did a good five mile circuit. From the coast we headed back inland and explored the local area and had lunch in a nearby pub. This is where Lynda picked us up and drove us back to Tiverton Parkway. All in good time to board the train back to London.

Book your stay now
Back home by 7pm, we'd had a wonderful weekend. We'd had a day of full pampering, slept in a luxury renovated Victorian cottage... indulged in naughty food, been on an invigorating walk in the rural countryside of North Devon, been picked up and dropped of at the station and had experienced a comfortable train journey at either end. It was so easy and very affordable. I encourage you to treat yourself now and book a visit with Jeremy and Lynda.

Book your Valentine Break now for just £499 per couple (01237 441881). The breaks, which are available between 8th and 18th February 2008, include three nights weekend accommodation (Friday to Monday) or a four night midweek stay (Monday to Friday) in a luxurious one bedroom cottage and a Virgin Pamper Day (without therapies) in the spa for each person. Every couple will also find a bottle of champagne on ice, a bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates waiting in their cottage on arrival.

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From the Top Ten Luxury Health Spas in the UK:

Treatments at Downe Health Spa are superb and the stunning sea views are a tonic in themselves. The Holistic Relaxation Therapy, £75, offers a mixture of steam inhalation, Thai stretching and massage or the signature Stone at Downe hot stone massage, £90. Day package, from £60 plus treatments; self-catering cottages, from £199 per person (minimum two people) for one night.

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Downe House is how all spas would be run if Ma Larkin was in charge. You park in a barn (in summer months expect to get swooped and pooped on by swallows), walk past holiday cottages, admire the sea views and enter through a conservatory. The relaxation area is a few sofas and coffee tables liberally stocked with boiled sweets and magazines, and you check in with a super-friendly therapist. So far, so chintzy. Don't come here expecting the usual Asian or clinical white-walled spa aesthetic, but expect to return home feeling as though you've experienced a bear hug.

My therapist chatted me through the Holistic Relaxation Therapy that she'd helped devise. Involving a sequence of steam inhalation, hot towels, massage and Thai stretching techniques; you don't know whether you're asleep, awake or floating along the North Devon coastline just outside. A past guest cried as she admitted she'd never felt so nurtured. In the afternoon, out come the floral patterned china tea sets, and you're served warm homemade scones with clotted cream and strawberry jam infused with lavender from a local farm. If only Ma Larkin was in charge of the rest of the world too.

Downe House Spa, Hartland, Devon EX39 6DA. Pamper Days from £60, including lunch and clotted cream tea, plus treatments. Call 01237-441881 or visit www. devonspa.com

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My Birthday Treat

For a birthday treat I may be lucky to be taken out for a lavish meal at a nice restaurant.

That's very nice but you can't really have that 'private' conversation and all too soon it's home and back to the real world.

So I asked myself what did I really want from a romantic break? The answer was time alone together.

For a wedding night, anniversary, birthday or special occasion together, with that guaranteed personal touch, seldom experienced, Downe Health Spa could be the place for you.

It's located on the Hartland Peninsula in North Devon and goes by the name of Downe Health Spa which offers a wide range of beauty treatments and holistic therapies that very successfully relax and rejuvenate the mind and body.

Jeremy and Lynda Roe have simply worked wonders on this - their hill-top retreat.

They've converted it from next-to-nothing into what must be one of the most exclusive and appealing health spas in the country. The property itself is a listed farmhouse that dates back to the 15th century.

Balanced on what seems to be the tip of a hill, the seven acres surrounding the spa boast glorious sea views north to Lundy Island and west over the Atlantic.

The gym doors, should you wish to be so foolish as to exercise as part of your spa experience, open out on to rolling fields and simply stunning views. Jeremy and Lynda say their nearest neighbours are half-a-mile away. Bliss.

The spa experience really was the icing on the cake as part of our wonderfully romantic time away.

The spa itself is particularly spacious with a spa bath, sauna, steam room and relaxation area with panoramic views across a lily pond.

There are limited numbers allowed at any one time and we practically had the place to ourselves.

On a gloriously sunny autumn afternoon the doors opened and a breeze lofted in as we relaxed on loungers - a happy mix of fresh air, relaxation and pampering.

Tammy, my better half, then experienced a four layer facial including fresh European seaweed said to rejuvenate and tone.

I was whisked off for the centre's own interpretation of traditional stone therapy.

Having been treated individually, what we both agreed on was the quality of the products and the attention to detail really
shone through.

From the products used, to the fine china for the cream tea, Jeremy and Lynda have found a winning formula and are rightly sticking to it.

Forget your chain hotels, leave those big name brands behind, Downe is offering quality, individualised products guaranteed to melt even the toughest of hearts.

It's the little things that count, and they do it so well.

JONPAUL HEDGE

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A very special place

Downe Health Spa has been recognised as one of North Devon's "very special places" for some years now. There are numerous reasons why.

The quality of client service is special. Visitors to Downe are cared for and pampered from the moment they walk into the beautiful Edwardian conservatory that is the entrance until the door closes behind them at the end of a simply wonderful day.

The visitors' care and well being is the focus of every therapist at Downe. The range of holistic therapies available at Downe is special. It includes therapies like the Stone at Downe and the Holistic. Relaxation Therapy which are interpretations of classic therapies unique to Downe.

The range of beauty therapies available at Downe is everything you would expect at a top of the range Health Spa.

The names of the beauty therapies alone are a roll call of indulgence - "Honey Body Polish", "Peppermint Sea Twist Body Wrap" etc. etc. - but that is what you would expect.

What makes Downe special is the approach which it takes to those beauty therapies.

Every beauty therapy is approached as a holistic therapy. Every beauty therapy at Downe is designed to nurture and sustain, not merely to beautify.

The wonderful Atlantic-side location and the beautiful gardens all help to create a special haven away from the rough and tumble of the everyday world.

The lunches and teas taken at Downe are special simply because of the quality of ingredients used (throughout the summer and well into autumn salad and herbs are picked from the gardens an hour before the meal is served) and the care taken in presentation.

Even the Gift Certificates are special. Each Gift Certificate from Downe is beautifully presented with a transparent wrap over card tied with a gold bow.

They are individually created with a personal greeting from you to the someone you love. To make them feel special.

As we said, there are plenty of reasons why Downe is one of North Devon's "very special places".

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North Devon - Craggy cliffs, delightful villages and secret hideaways spell holiday heaven

For the rugged coastal scenery and lush, green, farm fields rolling away inland. For leafy valleys and narrow, winding lanes with high hedges-and sudden glimpses of a stunning view. For the exhilaration of sea air, and beaches wide and wild, or small and secretive. For villages brimming with colour and character. And even in the midst of the holiday season, if you know where to find it - for 'off the beaten track' charm.

What's There?
Hartland Point -a spine-tingling spot, even on calm days, which the Romans called the 'Promontory of Hercules'. Its lighthouse is a reminder of the dangers posed by powerful Atlantic gales which batter the sheer, 325ft-high cliff.

Hartland Abbey-now privately owned, this 12th-Century treasure, with many later additions, has a spectacular garden that's worth a visit. For details of opening times, visit www.hartlandabbey.com

Clovelly - flower-decked cottages line the steep, cobbled streets tumbling towards the sea in this enchanting, traffic-free, fishing village. Entry (£4.95 for adults, which includes parking) is via a visitor centre high above. In summer, you can hitch a lift back up a back road by Land Rover. For more into, see www.clovelly.co.uk

Bucks Mills -Clovelly's quieter sister, in an idyllic woodland setting, has a pebbly beach that's nice for a swim at high tide. At low tide, you can potter in rock pools.

Appledore-set on the estuary where the rivers Taw and Torridge meet, with it many pretty, pastel cottages and its close-set cobbled streets, this delightful fishing and ship-building village is a gem.

Don't Miss!
The wildflower gardens and historic water mill at Docton Mill.

A Devon cream tea-scones and jam with lashings of rich, local cream are a must, whatever the cost in calories. But the perfect answer for that is, of course...

A walk along the cliffs-the views are wonderful, the sea air is bracing and the exercise is good for you!

A sighting of the spectacular rocky coast at Welcombe Mouth.

Where To Stay
Downe Cottages, on the Hartland Peninsula, are a haven of peace, seclusion and tranquillity. Each of the eight properties is a listed former farm building; all now converted to combine period exteriors with modern comforts. Adjoining them is Downs Health Spa, offering a selection of relaxing beauty and holistic therapies- including mother-to be treatments and days as well as a gym sauna, steam room and whirlpool baths.

Delicious breakfast baskets that include homemade bread, local bacon and free-range eggs-can be delivered to your cottage. So can locally prepared, oven-ready gourmet meals, come evening - or you n walk the 400 yards to Cheristow Country Kitchen for a meal. All vegetables come from the garden, and both meat and poultry are home-produced.

Downe Cottages And Health Spa (tel: 01237 441881 or visit www.downecottages.com) has three night breaks from £340 for a one-bedroomed cottage, sleeping two. A week in a two-bedroomed cottage sleeping four, costs from £760. For full details of the spa and treatments, see www.devonspa.com

Book in advance for dinner at the Cheristow Country Kitchen on tel: 01237 441522.

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Down on the farm

Jo Maddox and Liam Hughes spent three nights at Downs Health & Spa Cottages in North Devon

Being a spa virgin, I was a little apprehensive about my 'first time'...but I needn't have been. When we arrived, the owners of the property, Jeremy and Lynda, were waiting to show us to one of the five listed Victorian farm buildings, which have been converted into luxury self catering cottages.

Each one was like a home from home with everything from books and DVDs to a fully-equipped kitchen - and a fridge stocked with our first breakfast. If you don't fancy cooking, you can order in from a delicious home-cooked gourmet menu. Beware though, a dish for two could food four!

The spa is small, but there's a good choice of beauty treatments and holistic therapies, plus a gym, spa bath, sauna, steam room, relaxation area with panoramic views and a restaurant serving locally sourced food.

We decided to try different treatments and compare notes afterwards. I booked a facial and a hot stone massage, while Liam went for the aromatherapy massage. My treatment lasted two -and-a-half hours and was so relaxing I fell asleep - a good sign, apparently -and Liam was like a zombie for the rest of the day after his massage! Our pamper day ended with a cream tea complete with strawberry and lavender jam from the farm up the road - funny how lazing around doing nothing can leave you with such an appetite!

There's plenty to do outside the spa, boo: coastal walks, bike rides, boat trips, surfing... and the not-to-be missed Cheristow Country Kitchen, which is just 10 minute's walk away, and where we had some of the best food we've ever tasted, mos of which is grown and reared on the farm itself. If you fancy going further afield, there's Padstow, famous for Rick Stein's restaurant, and the Eden Project, which is just a 90-minute drive away.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing weekend away from it all, or a family break with the kids, Downe, has it all.

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Health spa delivers on pampering for mothers-to-be

Downe Health Spa, located on the beautiful Hartland Peninsula, now delivers a Pamper Day designed for mothers-to-be.

The Mother-to-Be Pamper Day is suitable for women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. It comprises a day in the Health Spa and includes lunch, a cream tea, soft drinks and the use of towels, towelling robes, slippers and shower cosmetics plus four therapies designed to relax and rejuvenate:

• The "Mother to Be" Holistic Relaxation Therapy - An indulgent body and facial treatment created by Downe's own therapists to provide a holistic experience which reduces the physical and emotional stress of pregnancy. Specially selected essential oils (safe to use during pregnancy or nursing) are used to assist calm, slow breathing. The client is also given a soothing massage with mandarin and lavender oils to relieve muscular tension, fluid retention, stress and fatigue.
• A facial chosen from Downe's range of luxury facials - Following a consultation with a therapist on skin type and needs, the client selects from the range available (including the Hydra Dew, Hydra Sensitive Skin, Hydra Refine Pare Perfecting and Four Layer Facials).
• The Sea Spa Manicure - A manicure which is no less than a facial for the hands. This therapeutic treatment includes an invigorating hand massage featuring seaweed based hand cream and a paraffin wax treatment, leaving hands soft, wellgroomed and polished.
• The Sea Spa Pedicure - No less than a facial for the feet.

The Mother to Be Pamper Day makes the perfect day.

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Take time out

Feeling stressed? Need some pampering? Susie Weldon discovers the hedonistic delights of North Devon's most intimate spa

The Hartland peninsula in North Devon has long been renowned for its stunning natural beauty, picturesque villages and dramatic views over the Atlantic (next stop Lundy Island, for those with wings or fins).

Visitors come to walk the clifftops, explore the secluded coves and take a break from the stresses of urban life in this designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

But now there's an extra reason to head for this idyllic part of the world - the luxurious pampering to be found at Jeremy and Lynda Roe's Downe Health Spa.

Jeremy and Lynda moved to the area about 10 years ago in search of a better quality of life.

They found a Grade II-listed farmhouse dating back to the 15th century, Downe House, and five dilapidated Victorian stone buildings, and embarked upon a three-year renovation project.

Now they have eight beautifully converted cottages which sleep from two to six people and provide "the self-catering equivalent of a five-star country hotel", according to a reviewer from The Sunday Times.

They also built a spa, comprising a gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, steam room and treatment rooms, for the use of their guests, about four years ago.

"But we realised that it wasn't being used during the day - that was when people were out walking or exploring the area," says Jeremy.

So now they also offer pamper days and half-days that are open to non-residents, too, and they've proved enormously popular.

"We find people's first reaction is 'I never knew it was here'. We also have an awful lot of spa novices who say 'I walked in and thought what on Earth am I going to do all day, and then I got to the end and thought where has the day gone?'" chuckles Lynda.

Both Lynda and Jeremy had very clear ideas about what kind of experience they were aiming for. Lynda can still remember her first massage - in Houston, Texas, in the 1970s - and since then she's had lots of treatments, thanks to the five-star hotels she and Jeremy stayed in all over the world.

"We are our customers. We look at ourselves and say 'what would we like'" says Jeremy. "It's got to be spotlessly clean, warm, well decorated and totally relaxing. We want people to walk away delighted with what they've experienced. It's an intimacy that we have here. It's about a very personalised service."

There is, indeed, something very intimate and relaxed about the Downe Health Spa, as I found when I visited for a pamper day. I arrived frazzled and late, thanks to a troublesome drive from Bristol, but a tray of tea, a pile of glossy magazines and a plump, welcoming sofa soon had me soothed.

Then it was time for the first of my two treatments - an aromatherapy back and shoulder massage.

Downe Health Spa is all about customer care, and you do feel superbly pampered. It was quite an effort to get up after my massage and stagger into the conservatory where a light lunch was served. Thankfully, there was more pampering in the afternoon, when I was booked for a facial.

All the products and treatments are based on nutrient-rich seaweed harvested from the coasts of Brittany, and the facial left my skin glowing and silky soft. The sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi were all there for me to use, but to be honest, I didn't want to do much more than lounge on the sofa, reading and chatting, in between treatments.

After a thoroughly self-indulgent day, I felt completely refreshed.

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For hard-working, stressed women, a pamper day has to do exactly what it says on the tin. Harassed reporter Louise Vennells put Downe Cottages and Spa to the test-and left feeling at one with the world.

Once every blue moon, something happens in a girl's life that becomes a point of reference forever more.

Such experiences are relived by the starry-eyed narrator to close and envious friends for decades to come. Examples might include the best meal ever eaten, the most fabulous cocktail or the most mind-blowing... romantic experience.

And now, I can exclusively reveal that I have found the new benchmark of professional massages.

As I lay on the table at Downe Health Spa, near Hartland in North Devon, I quickly realised that all the masseurs I had visited before had simply pummelled my flesh, as if rubbing salt into a roast to prepare it for the oven.

Downe was different. I was treated to the full-body hot stone massage, which has been refined by the spa's therapists to offer a customised experience.

My therapist was like a magician. I was never conscious of her reaching for the stones, but suddenly the warmth would permeate deep into my muscles, as if she had produced it from thin air, or whipped it from up her sleeve.

I happily drifted into a dream-like state, although always at least semi conscious of my treatment.

After 90 minutes of bliss, in which every millimetre of my body unwound so completely I feared I might never stand up again, my therapist began to administer a four-layer face mask, which included a massage of the face and shoulders.

Again, my conscious-snooze button was hit, and another half an hour of dancing on the brink between reality and dreamland passed by.

Then, all of a sudden, I felt alert and revitalised. I assume my therapist had introduced some kind of stimulating essential oil, because the wonderfully surreal sequences that had been swimming through my head suddenly stopped, and I was ready to face the world with a vengeance.

The whole experience was compounded by the stunning surrounds at Downe, where the conservatory-style windows overlook some of the Westcountry's most breathtaking landscape, with views out over the sea and Lundy Island on a fine day.

The complex incorporates luscious comfy sofas, a gym and the spa itself- a beautiful, light space with a sauna, a jacuzzi and a steam room. The area is surrounded by huge glass windows, which almost make you feel like you are relaxing in the countryside beyond.

On arrival, guests for the pamper day are provided with a fluffy robe and slippers to slouch around in, even during lunch.

The offerings for the two-course meal are simple, but healthy, fresh and delicious - and made using local produce wherever possible.

The visit is rounded off with a luxurious cream tea, made from scones baked on the premises. Personally, the last thing I wanted to do was jump in my car and drive home-and if I'd had a deeper purse, I could easily have stayed in one of the well-equipped and charming cottages on the site.

But on my lowly reporter's wage, it was back to South Devon - to bore all my friends with the details of the wonderful experience forever more.

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Let Yourself Go

They do things properly at Downe Health Spa. Owners of this Hartland haven, Lynda and Jeremy Roe are so determined to make a visit there an enjoyable experience that you would he hard put to find a better - even, I suspect, at The Sanctuary or Champneys.

The couple have sampled other spas and resolved to emulate the best aspects while developing their own style and ambience. They seem to put themselves in the client's place and understand what is expected and desired.

"I think everything we do should be to the highest standard." said Jeremy.

"We want people to walk away delighted with what they have had here." And if my experience is anythingto go by, they are certainly achieving their aim.

The main focus at Downe is on Pamper Days (which you can give yourself or as a gift to someone) which, briefly comprise use of the gym and spa facilities, lunch and tea.  Beauty and holistic therapies can be added to this.

You really are made to feel welcome on arrival and then served tea or coffee and left to enjoy your drink in peace and at at your own pace.

After this relaxing start, there is a guided tour of the facilities and an explanation of how to use the equipment. A towelling robe and slippers, a bath sheet, sweat towel and shower cosmetics are provided for the day.

Apart from lunch and tea, clients are free to use any of the equipment and enjoy the day as they please. If they have booked therapies, they will be given the times on arrival.

I enjoyed a Four Layer Facial which was a truly wonderful experience. My therapist explained everything clearly, was both friendly and considerate and had a deft and gentle teach. The facial was relaxing and left my skin feeling clean, fresh and invigorated. In fact, later that evening a friend commented that it looked "glowing".

Another delightful therapist gave me an aromatherapy body massage which was such a pleasing experience that the hour was up all too soon.

You might wonder how you could fill a whole day (10am til 5pm) at Downe, but with a couple of therapies slotted in, I was unable to fit in use of the spa room: sauna, steam room and spa bath! There was a little time after the aromatherapy and before tea, but it seemed a waste to steam or wash away all the glorious smelling oils that had just been lavished on me. Oh dear, l suppose I'll just have to treat myself to a return visit!

For more detail about the treatments and facilities, phone or visit the website. The important thing about Downe is that the whole focus of the day is on the your comfort and enjoyment. It is achieved without fuss in spotless, first class facilities.

Lynda and Jeremy believe that the feedback from clients is of "tremendous importance" and any problems are sorted immediately. It may not be as large as some health spas but the couple agree its strengths lie in the intimacy and the location - a quiet rural spot with stunning views out over the Atlantic.

There are also eight, extremely well equipped holiday cottages on site and it is possible to book in for a Pamper Weekend or short. midweek break (cottages are also available for rental separately).

Clients are asked to complete a feedback form after their visit, scoring everything from facilities to food, and adding a comment about anything that would improve the day. It all gets 10 out of l0 in my book.

Chrissie Sawl

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An oasis of real pleasure and indulgence at Downe Health Spa

By Andrea Charter!

When your daughter wears Gucci sling backs and you yourself are happier in wellies, a trip to a plush health spa promises to be - well, interesting ...

She, full of the joys of pain poring, as an aspiring footballer's wife, me full of trepidation and guilt driven by a mile-wide work ethic. We entered Downe Health Spa at Hartland-and there was paradise.

Seriously. It was bliss. Utter bliss. And yes, you are reading the words of the converted.

Greeted by a cheery therapist we were led through an enormous, warm and welcoming conservatory dotted with beautiful plants and lined at the far end with striking photographs, where a number of white robed women were eating a delicious-looking lunch.

We moved on into a space filled with plush, suck-you-in furniture and a well equipped gym, were offered refreshments and sank back in the cushions, luxury all around - right through to the beautiful views from massive windows forming the wall on the far side of the gym.

Jeremy and Lynda Roe opened Downe Health Spa four years ago, and Jeremy talked us through our pampering options, giving us a guided tour of the spacious premises.

We were then left to our own devices for some playful girlie time before our booked treatments, selected beforehand from a wide range of beauty and holistic therapies.

Norah Jones crooned gently as we sat in the spa, warm as toast in water that gently pummelled tense muscles, while the rain and wind outside lashed down on yet more glass walls - these open on to the lovely gardens and pond in warmer weather.

Out of the spa, into the shower, and-will we or won't we try the steam room? Oh yes! Another shower, and still time for a sauna and excuse me-but are my shoulders no longer Velcro-ed to my ears with stress?

On something of a relaxation roll, (daughter, curiously, was taking it all in her stride) there was an aromatherapy back and shoulder massage to follow, with the option for relaxing or uplifting - no contest. More relaxation please.

This was in a beautifully ambient room, with soft music. candlelight and even warmed towels on the treatment bench - you couldn't help drift away into deep relaxation as my therapist gently made short work of every neck and shoulder knot. Emerging from this feeling floppier than ever, it was time for a facial. Facials include a massage and take an hour, so it's worth giving yourself plenty of time for the hull Monty. It has to be said my own "mature" skin has never felt softer or looked clearer.

The bottom line is, this was a tranquil, peaceful place to wile away some quality mother and daughter time, forget about the worries and strains of the week and enjoy the slow transition from work-weary and stressed to mellow and refreshed.

It also proved how much in common two very different girls can have when it comes to luxurious pleasures.

A cream tea beyond measure - with scrumptious homemade scones made to Jeremy's mother's recipe, which was passed on to Lynda and on, in turn, to her staff - topped off the experience perfectly. This was. quite simply, an oasis of pleastire and indulgence.

With a range of gift certificates it could make the perfect present.

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The new stone age

In need of escape and revival over the festive period? Natalie Partridge visited the Downe Health Spa in Hartland, North Devon

Downe House is a listed farmhouse dating back to the 15th century. Situated on the tip of the Heartland peninsula, in an area of outstanding natural beauty, it has glorious sea views. It looks north to Lundy Island and west over the Atlantic.

The spa itself is set in rolling farmland that slopes gently to the coast - the nearest neighbours are half-a-mile away.

Arriving at the spa, I was greeted by Jeremy Roe and his wife, Lynda, who gave up life in the city over 10 years ago to start their business at Downe.

Excellence was always at the top of their list when the couple were planning therapies for the spa.

Lynda explained that they don't believe in a half-hour facial; each treatment is carried out to the highest standard, with even a manicure being a luxurious lengthy treat.

And the couple are clearly smitten with the spa's location.I'm not surprised. The outstanding setting aside, the spa is tranquil, a place you could easily lose yourself in for hours.

The Spa is fully equipped with a Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. After my tour of the spa I met my therapist for the treatment. I chose the Stone at Downe which is the therapists' interpretation of a traditional stone therapy, providing the ultimate in relaxation. It is Downe's signature therapy.

The treatment room has subdued lighting which, with the warm aroma of scented candles and soft music, makes for the perfect sanctuary.

My therapist talked me through the treatment and answered any questions I had and then, for the next hour and a half. I was transported to a level of relaxation that I have never experienced before.

The treatment consists of massage using warm basalt stones smoothed over the ages by the "pure, clear waters of a Peruvian river". It's described as a soothing yet deep and profoundly effective treatment. It also incorporates an all-over body massage with essential oils suited to your choice or needs (I had lavender, camomile and geranium) which cocooned me in warmth and melted away stress and tension.

The hot stones were placed on different points of my body throughout the massage to ease tension at the base and either side of my spine. The larger stones were used to achieve a deep massage on areas such as my back and legs, while the smaller stones helped to penetrate pressure points in my hands and feet. The treatment ended with a head and face massage using the oils. Cool stones were then worked over my face and placed over my eyes and temples to seal in the heat and close the pores.

I must admit. before I had the treatment I was slightly dubious about the use of the stones and wondered how they could benefit me, but after experiencing the therapy I was completely sold. The sensations of the stones were incredible; like nothing I have experienced before. I left the treatment room feeling extremely serene.

In the conservatory I was greeted by Lynda, who presented me with a homemade Devon cream tea! Not what you may imagine from a health spa, but definitely appreciated - Lynda's motto being: "You're only here for a day so you may as well enjoy it."

I had just one of the treatments offered at Downe but there is a whole range of spa treatments to choose from, all carried out by trained therapists who believe in the ideals set by the owners of Downe.

Downe Health Spa also offers pamper days, perfect for peace and relaxation.

The care at Downs is exceptional: the clients' comfort and enjoyment is the entire focus of the pamper day. Jeremy and Lynda also pride themselves on their personalised gift certificates which make a lovely present for someone who deserves a little relaxation. With Christmas just around the corner this may just be the present you've been looking for!

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Spa report
DOWNE HEALTH SPA AND COTTAGES IN DEVON

FACILITIES
Set in seven acres of private land on the stunning north Devon coast, Downe Health Spa consists of five beautiful stone Victorian farm buildings. These have been converted sympathetically into guest cottages and a main treatment area with a state of the art gym, four treatment rooms and a pacious spa area. The spa lounging area has a spa bath with whirlpool jets, a sauna and a steam room and panoramic views out to the coast. Guests can stay overnight in one of the luxurious guest cottages, self-catering or choose from a delicious menu.

TREATMENTS AVAILABLE
There are a range of holistic therapies including therapeutic massages, aromatherapy treatments, sports massage, reflexology and Indian head massage. Beauty therapies include manicures, pedicures, facials and body wraps.

TREATMENTS TESTED
The Four Layer Facial at Downe - 1 hour, £59
A thoroughly relaxing facial involving four main stages. My skin was cleansed, exfoliated and given a full facial and neck massage and two masks to nourish and hydrate my skin. The products smell wonderful, clean and fresh with relaxing floral notes of bergamot and rose. Whilst the mask was setting I totally relaxed with a 10-minute head massage.

The Honey Body Polish at Downe - 1 hour, £53
My beauty therapist mixed up a creamy honey paste which smelt delicious. I was vigorously rubbed from head to toe and smothered in the honey paste, then wrapped in foil and an electric blanket to open the pores and let the mixture soak in. During this 15 minutes I was given another head massage. After a quick shower I was given a 30 minute full body massage. Afterwards my skin was baby soft and I smelt good enough to eat.

Full Body Massage - 1 hour, £55
A deeply relaxing Swedish massage with some deep tissue work. I was massaged from top to toe with a blend of aromatherapy oils smelling of jasmine and rose. Afterwards, my skin felt really soft and although it was supposed to be relaxing, I actually felt invigorated and energised.

GOOD POINTS
Downe spa is small and privately owned, so you really feel looked after. Guest cottages are equipped with DVDs and wood burners so you can cosy up and totally relax after your treatments. All the food was delicious and included an afternoon cream tea, with home made scones and thick Devonshire cream.

KATE BAILY

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The last word in indulgence

Set amidst seven acres of stunning North Devon coastal scenery on the Hartland Peninsula, Downe Health Spa offers clients an extensive range of beauty therapies and perhaps the last word in relaxation and indulgence.

The complex houses a spacious spa, state-of-the-art gymnasium, treatment rooms, lounging areas and a dining conservatory and provides a host of holistic therapies such as reflexology, aromatherapy massage, sports and Indian head massage.

Alongside these therapies, the spa provides an extensive and expert range of seaweed-based skin and bodycare treatments.

Seaweed contains all the vitamins and minerals necessary to stimulate the skin's own natural defences to protect against the ravages of ageing, environmental pollution and damage. It purifies and detoxifies and the result is healthier, glowing skin.

Among some of the many beauty treatments available are body wraps, facials, manicures and pedicures.

• The Sea Escape Stone Facial and Body Therapy at Downe utilises various sized hot and cold sea stones as massage aids during a 90-minute treatment. They are placed on key pressure points on the body to relieve tension in conjunction with reflexology and lymphatic drainage for complete face and body relief. Layers of fresh European seaweed rejuvenate, tone and firm the skin and together with a relaxing foot and hand massage create a superb spa experience.
• The Thalassotherapy Seaweed Body Treatment at Downe is based on European Thalassotherapy. Fresh seaweed is warmed to body temperature and then smoothed over the skin to create a warm thermal blanket to help relieve stress and invigorate sore, stiff muscles. A shower completes the experience, leaving you feeling newly recharged and balanced.
• The Four Layer Facial at Downe is a wonderfully luxurious facial with layers of pure, fresh European seaweed used to rejuvenate, tone and help firm the skin. Two massages follow and then a cool seaweed mask is applied, followed by a mineral rich thermal mask that allows for total penetration of the layers and leaving the skin feeling cleaner, healthier and looking more radiant.
• The Honey Body Polish at Downe indulges the body with pure honey, almonds and fresh buttermilk. This natural cleanser and exfoliator is massaged on the skin, helping to purify and slough off dead skin cells. After a warm shower, a luxurious seaweed cream is massaged into the body leaving the skin silky smooth.

The spa includes an octagonal spa bath with whirlpool jets, a sauna and a steam room as well as panoramic views across the springled lily pond to the coast from the lounging area.

Equipped with Life Fitness and Concept 11 equipment, free weights, exercise bench and mats, the beautifully furnished, spacious, light and airy gym looks out to Lundy Island while the four well-equipped therapy rooms and a delightful conservatory look over the Atlantic Ocean.

Both facilities are maintained at the ideal temperature and humidity levels by air conditioning and dehumidification systems.

As well as offering individual therapies, Pamper Days are also available and can be tailor-made to include clients preferred combination of treatments as well as use of the gym and spa, and a light lunch. Pamper Days can also be incorporated into a holiday or short break in one of the centre's adjoining luxury cottages.

Celebration Days for groups of eight or more provide a superb way of celebrating a birthday, anniversary or upcoming wedding with a group of friends or family and offer exclusive use of the gym and spa for the day and a special celebration lunch. Gift certificates are also available.

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In need of bodily rescue, relaxation and revival, Linda Mitchelmore heads to Downe Health Spa in Hartland for a day of pampering

The setting is stunning, overlooking the Atlantic in all its majesty, with Lundy Island in the near distance. The approach is along narrow lanes that twist and turn. Getting out of the car, all you can hear is the roar of the wind and the shush of the sea. I'm met by Jeremy Roe who, with his wife, Lynda, has been at Downe for nine years now. As a one-time group director of quality for a public company, excellence was always top of his list, and he aimed to bring that ethic to Downe. "The spa is very small and intimate," Lynda says, as she leads us into the spa with Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna. "Ten is our maximum number for Pamper Days. That way we feel we can give the very best to all our guests and there is no waiting around to use any of the equipment."

To start, I come over all Jane Fonda and head for the gym. Five minutes on each of three machines (rowing, cycling, treadmill) and I'm ready for a shower because it's time to present myself to my therapist for the day, for my four-layer facial.

The therapy room is all subdued lighting, delicately perfumed and soft music. My face is cleansed and massaged with a honey, yoghurt and almond product that smells almost good enough to eat. A steam machine is placed over the bed and the cleanser gets help to do its work, dragging out impurities. A little more massage, some hydrating cream and then comes a gel mask, which is very cooling and soothing after the moist warmth of the steaming process. This is followed by a clay pack.

"This will get very warm" my therapist warns. And indeed it does, but no more than, say, lying face up to the sun on a day in early summer. It takes about 15 minutes and in the meantime I'm offered a foot or hand massage, so I go for the feet.

As the mask begins to cool down it's removed, and the gel, which has now set like rubbery jelly, is also peeled back. Dare I look in the mirror? Will I have shed 20 years' worth of ageing skin? Yes! I can see a difference - my skin looks fresher and more radiant.

A light lunch is offered on Pamper Days (I had tomato, mozzarella and avocado salad) because, Lynda says, it's not a good idea to be going for treatments with an overfull stomach. "But on our Celebration Day packages when we can take between 14 and 20 guests, when people have fewer treatments and more lounging around chatting time, or sitting-in-the-Jacuzzi chilling-out time, we offer more substantial lunches."

I hadn't expected a facial to be so relaxing even though there was a little neck and shoulder massage in there somewhere, but I almost have to drag myself from the table to a couch where tea is served, because I'm so relaxed. I'm also given a seaweed and magnesium drink. "Most of us are low in magnesium," Jillie says. "So this is to treat you on the inside before your honey body polish."

Think turkey and tinfoil for this next part... A treatment bed is covered first with an electric blanket, then a white cotton sheet, then a layer of what looks like quilted tinfoil (or one of those blankets you get given if you're brave enough to finish a marathon). I've been given a paper bikini to wear and I lie face down on the bed very quickly because the last time I wore a bikini I had the figure for it, which is no more.

I have had just the two treatments but there is the whole range of spa treatments to choose from, all done by qualified therapists who believe in the ideals set by the owners of Downe.

Well, this 50-something guest has had a wonderful day. Time for my cream tea now. Cream tea did I hear you say? Didn't I mention that? Scones baked just an hour or so earlier, home-made jam and local cream. Mmmm... well, this is Devon after all.

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O when was the last time you were cosseted, spoiled and treated rather too-indulgently?

If, like me, you find it hard to recall an occasion when you were last lost in the rhapsody of a relaxing massage or floating on the cloud of your own serenity, you may be long overdue for some pampering.

But where does a footsore, tired-eyed and brain-fagged hack go for that much needed cranking up, cooling off, and chilling out experience?

Someone in the know, when it comes to idyllic indulgence scenarios, suggested a Pamper Day at Downe Health Spa in Hartland.

So I had the good luck, on a Monday morning, to be driving through the glorious Hartland Peninsula - a designated area of outstanding beauty - surrounded by peace, tranquillity and sparkling sea views which nod to Lundy in the North and wink across the Atlantic to the West. I have to admit that even before reaching the spa, distress was giving way to de-stress.

Greeting me at Downe Cottages Health Spa, an atmospheric renovated dairy farm, were congenial hosts: Jeremy and Lynda Roe. The couple are on a mission: to make Pamper Days as unhurried and as relaxing as possible.

Jeremy said: "People arrive here with tension and they are mentally exhausted. You can see it in their shoulders. Sometimes the contrast in their posture when they leave is noticeable."

On arrival guests are given a towelling robe, slippers, bath sheet and sweat towel - many stay in their robe and slippers all day. Lynda said: "People almost drift out afterwards and it's lovely to see them leave like that after a superb day."

Now if any of this sounds slightly reminiscent of some of the health farms so popular in the 80s: rest assured. There was positively no evidence that pamperees were expected to wear mung bean necklaces or go-for-the-burn Fonda-style leg warmers, become spiritual athletes, sit in the yogi position for four hours or nibble all day on delicate sprigs of celery. Of course you could do any of these things if you so wish. But at Downe Health Spa, I get the impression, austere and rigorous regimes are out. Relaxation, pampering and recuperation, are most definitely in (so are cream teas - yippee!)

Lynda said: "We tell people it's their pamper clay. We are running the place but it has to be at their pace."

So should it be your whim you could spend the day sprawling in the lounge area glued to a giant screen TV. But if lethargy isn't your luxury and you have aspirations to be lively and lean, you will no doubt be tempted by the machines and weights in the airy gym. Outdoor types can make the most of the fact that the sea, Berry Cove and the coastal path are little more than a short walk away. Personally though, the idea of submerging in the spa bath, wallowing in the whirlpool jets and sweating away stress in the sauna and steam room sounds rather tempting. Not least because the lounging area in the spa room looks across a spring-fed lily pond to the coast.

Pamper Day delights also include therapies. So I know you will understand that, in the interests of the readership I felt compelled to test an aromatherapy face and head massage. In a private treatment room, my therapist chose and mixed oils for energising:

"I'm using lemongrass to leave you energised, lavender for its antibiotic qualities and melissa to uplift and improve the mood."

The result? Well it might be quite succinctly summed up in one word: bliss! My therapist's talent for massage was evident and the energising effect left me zinging all day. I could equally have chosen an aromatherapy body massage, head massage, facials, pedicures, manicures or reflexology.

So who might like a pamper day?

Jeremy said: "Pamper days are a superb way of celebrating special events (pre-wedding, anniversaries or birthdays) or just enjoying the company of a group of friends. The idea is to provide people with the perfect retreat for the day."

The perfect retreat involves a light lunch (which, if sunny, can be enjoyed on the patio - a sun trap with first class views) and, prior to your departure, a cream tea. For those who need a few days to unwind Lynda and Jeremy also offer Pamper Breaks where you can stay in one of the stone Victorian cottages.

Lynda seems to love having guests at her Hartland haven.

"It has to be a passion. A Pamper Day is a special day and if people stay over it's a holiday. Wasting money is one thing but you don't want to waste that special day. If that is spoilt there is no amount of compensation for that."

Prices for a Pamper Day vary depending on which therapies and treatments you choose.

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