A guide to the Forest Spa thermal circuit, from thermal pools and cedar sauna to the cold plunge, plus tips on timing, treatments and what to bring along.
Tucked among the trees a short walk from the lake, the Forest Spa was designed to feel like part of the woodland. The air smells faintly of cedar, and the loudest sound is usually the wind in the branches.
Whether you have an hour or a whole day, a little planning helps you make the most of it.
The thermal circuit
The heart of the spa is the thermal circuit, a sequence of warm, hot and cold experiences that encourages the body to relax deeply. There is no fixed order, but this is the one we suggest for first-timers.
Thermal pools
Begin in the warm thermal pools. Give yourself ten minutes or so to settle and let your mind quieten.
Cedar sauna
Next, the cedar sauna. Dry heat and the scent of warm wood make this a favourite with almost everyone. Stay only as long as feels comfortable.
Steam room
The steam room is gentler on the skin and lovely for the breath. We infuse it with botanicals grown in the resort’s kitchen garden, which change with the seasons.
Cold plunge
Then the bracing part. A short dip in the cold plunge closes the circuit and leaves you feeling wonderfully awake. A few seconds is enough to begin with.
Warm, hot, cold, rest. Repeat the circuit two or three times, and always finish with a proper rest.
Building your spa day
A full spa day works best when it has plenty of space built in. Here is a simple outline:
- Arrive unhurried. Leave time to change, have a herbal infusion and look around.
- Circuit first. Two or three rounds of the thermal circuit before any treatment helps muscles soften.
- Treatment in the middle. Massages and botanical rituals feel even better once you are fully warmed through.
- Long, light lunch. Something fresh from The Lake Terrace or the Pool House Kitchen, never anything too heavy.
- Rest and repeat. One last gentle circuit in the afternoon, then a slow walk back through the trees.
You can browse our current treatments on the Forest Spa rituals page. Your personal host can help you choose and book a time that suits the rest of your stay.
Botanicals from the garden
Many of the oils, infusions and scrubs we use draw on herbs and flowers from the resort’s own kitchen garden, such as lavender, rosemary, chamomile or mint, depending on the season. It is a small detail that ties the spa to the landscape around it.
Practical tips
What to bring
Robes, towels and slippers are waiting for you in the spa and in every room, so you need very little. A swimsuit is essential for the thermal circuit. Leave jewellery in your room.
Staying comfortable
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Avoid a large meal just before using the sauna or steam room
- Listen to your body and step out whenever you need to
- Let us know in advance about pregnancy or any health conditions
Pairing your day
The spa pairs beautifully with an early swim in the heated infinity pool or an afternoon on our guided forest trails.
Plan your visit
Spa access and treatments can be arranged before you arrive or during your stay. Explore our offers for stays that include spa time, check the FAQ for practical details, or get in touch and our team will help you plan.
