Life has become so fast-paced, hectic and stressful that we often forget about giving ourselves some downtime and switching off.
So, when hotel Donnington Valley invited us to test out its ‘Forty Winks’ Sleep Wellness Package, I was at the front of the queue. Based in Newbury, the hotel is about an hour from London and around 30 mins from Oxford, so close enough to slip away for one-night of pure relaxation.
The premise of the Donnington Valley ‘Forty Winks’ Sleep Wellness Package is a unique and restorative sleep wellness package designed to help guests achieve the ultimate in relaxation and restful sleep, combining luxurious accommodations with targeted wellness treatments.
Day 1
We arrived just after 2pm, a little later than expected due to the A34 being closed and torrential rain, but determined to put all the facilities to the test. First stop was the restaurant for a late lunch. We had massages booked for 3pm, so we opted for a lightbite – we had smoked salmon and cucumber, and cheese and Branston pickle, sandwiches with a side of fries.
Tummies full, we took our first step into what was an evening of relaxation and pampering. The treatment room was warm and welcoming, lit by candles and scented with lavender. We were both booked in for the Sonoma Aromatherapy Massage, a full body massage including head and scalp, and which lasted for 85 luxurious minutes. My therapist was great – ironing out all the knots in my neck, shoulders and back. The time went by in a flash and afterwards I floated into the relaxation room for a long drink of water, (there was a selection of herbal teas if you preferred) and then we were treated to a glass of prosecco.
Amazingly relaxed already, we were set to embrace the rest of the spa area. We collected our robes, and as the sun had finally made an appearance, we sat on the outdoor terrace area, and enjoyed our prosecco and chatted. Afterwards we tested the rest of the facilities – a swim in the 18-metre heated pool, followed by a sauna, tropical rain shower, steam room, jacuzzi and a visit to the Aromatherapy Room – yes we tried it all! The changing rooms are worth a mention – plenty of showers, lockers and private changing rooms, as well as GHD hairdryers and straighteners. Products were provided including shampoo and conditioner, shower gel and hand cream.
Hotel Room
We had a twin room on the ground floor, it was a good size, with a sofa and large-screen television, there was a small patio area outside with chairs and a table – a perfect place to relax with a glass of wine or cuppa (tea making facilities were provided). The hotel’s owners have gone to a lot of effort to create a relaxing vibe. The green outdoor space was well looked after and made you feel secluded from the surrounding road/carparks. We received complimentary White Company toiletries and a Moroccan Oil gift set (thank you).
Dining
For dinner, we were booked into The Wine Press Restaurant, a two AA rosette restaurant with award winning wine list. Our waitress suggested sharing main courses so we could effectively try two dishes – so we opted for Lamb Rump served with chimichurri, roasted courgetti, and tomato and potato pave; and Roasted Stone Bass served with spring onion potato cake, fennel, mussel, prawn and parsley cream; and a side of vegetables.
For desert we had Vanilla Pannacotta served with pineapple carpaccio and mango pearls. The food was delicious. Although the restaurant was busy, it was relaxed, the tables were well-spaced out so you were not eavesdropping on your neighbours’ conversations. There was also an al fresco dining area – The Hangout which would be lovely on a warm summer’s evening (which is wasn’t that evening).
Day 2
Determined to make the most of the facilities, we were in the gym (equipped with Matrix equipment) by 7am, and then headed for a well-earned breakfast. The food is served buffet-style with plenty of choices for all diets, including fruit, oats, seeds, dried fruit, yogurt, cereals, pastries and a full cooked breakfast – it was well presented, fresh and we sampled as much as possible and can confirm it was delicious.
Check-out time was 11am, so we decided to enjoy the spa for a few more hours and once again donned our robes. We have to say there was something very pleasant about sitting in the jacuzzi on a Monday morning when you know your colleagues were hard at work. We checked out with one-minute to spare, but thoroughly relaxed and ready to face the rest of the week.
As well as the Health Club and Spa, there’s the Donnington Valley golf course, said to be one of the most challenging golf courses in Berkshire – a challenging 6296 yards, 18 hole, par 71 from the white tees.
Overall, we had a fantastic stay at Donnington Valley. This privately-owned hotel has 111 rooms, and felt the owners had really thought about what’s important to their guests. There were lots of nice little touches designed to make your visit special, comfortable and as stress-free as possible. The staff were great – smiley, helpful and attentive.
Our trip, however short, really made us realise how important it is to take a step back from everyday life and take time to relax and really pamper yourself. All our chores were still waiting for us, but we returned feeling rejuvenated.
What the Package Includes
- Accommodation: Guests stay in one of the hotel’s comfortable rooms, which are equipped with high-quality beds and plush bedding to ensure a good night’s sleep.
- Spa Treatments: The package includes access to the spa facilities, where guests can enjoy various treatments designed to promote relaxation and wellness. These may include massages, facials, and other therapeutic services tailored to reduce stress and enhance sleep quality.
- Wellness Amenities: Guests are provided with robes, slippers, and other amenities to enhance their comfort during their stay. A welcome drink, such as a hot beverage or smoothie, is also included.
- Meals: The package often includes meals that focus on healthy, sleep-friendly ingredients. This could include a bento-style lunch or a classic afternoon tea, promoting a balanced diet conducive to better sleep.
- Personalised Sleep Tips: As part of the wellness experience, guests receive personalised sleep tips and possibly a selection of sleep aids, such as aromatherapy products, to help them achieve optimal rest.
You can enjoy our break or just the day spa:
Half-day spa experiences: Sonoma Retreat
A half spa day perfect for those with a busy schedule. Full use of our spa facilities and a 25 minute treatment are included.
Monday to Thursday, £85 pp |Friday to Sunday,£95 pp
Full day spa experiences: Sonoma Escape Spa Day
A blissful escape to relax poolside and be pampered. Available Monday – Thursday
from Available Monday 8th May until Monday 31st July 2023
£69.00 per person
Spa breaks: Signature Spa Break
After your relaxing day in the spa, spend the evening in the bar before indulging in a 3 course dinner in our 2 AA Rosette restaurant. You will then enjoy a fantastic night’s sleep and wake up to a full English or Continental buffet breakfast.
Sunday to Thursday – £129.50pp*
Friday to Saturday – £149.50pp*
To book: Visit https://www.donningtonvalley.co.uk/ or call 01635551199
