Spa review: Fredrick's Hotel and Spa, Berkshire

I was incredibly impressed by the non-invasive and quiet nature of the spa staff at Fredrick's, and was initially a little apprehensive about my back massage and pedicure; I get lower back pain and just hate my feet. It wasn't long however before I was flat out on the broad massage bed while Elaine worked out the knots using aromatherapy oils. She seemed unfazed by my stubby feet also and despite their wretched state, before long my toes looked like toes again, replete with pink tipped, perfectly symmetrical toenails.

There are a host of treatments available at Fredrick's Spa, incorporating ancient and modern philosophies from all over the globe, from Austrian chocolate wraps to LaStone therapies from Native America, Hungarian mud wraps and steam treatments with exotic Moroccan muds and French Argile clays. There is also an indoor/outdoor hydrotherapy pool with underwater massage beds, a neck and back waterfall and automatic sliding doors that allow guests to swim out to the hydro jets and Jacuzzi seats of the outdoor pool.

For women with golfing partners, Fredrick's offers a great his-and-hers experience, with a full 18-hole golf course which runs behind the spa. Sitting in a leather recliner in the relaxation room, sipping Tiger Tea, nibbling on strawberry sorbet and watching the golfers from a secluded distance is a strangely pleasant experience. The relaxation room also provides iPods so you can choose from a large range of music if all the silence and serenity becomes too much. There is a whole menu of treatments available for men also, and even the massage beds are larger than normal to accommodate clientele with a bigger build.

I would definitely return to Fredrick's, but this time with my partner or a friend. It is not the place for groups or large parties, but is an ideal retreat for a couple looking for some peace and quiet, a touch of good food, champagne and maybe a little romance.

Cost
The Pure Indulgence Day, which includes either a Hydro massage or Dream Bath Experience, a combination face and aromatherapy body massage and a manicure or pedicure, costs £240. This also includes use of the leisure facilities and a light two-course lunch with a glass of champagne.

Hotel rooms start at £260 for doubles/twin rooms and include an English champagne breakfast, early morning tea and paper, champagne and fresh fruit on arrival and complimentary use of Fredrick's spa facilities.

How to get there
From the M4 head towards Maidenhead West from junction 8/9, and then towards Cox Green/White Waltham.

For more information, visit www.fredricks-hotel.co.uk

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