Published in Scotland Magazine Issue 2 on 5/6/2002.

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Indoor Oasis

Scotland is winning accolades for something new - the delicate art of total pampering. Our pampering expert looks at a selection of Scotland's finest spas

Global warming has brought mixed benefits to Scotland. Our cold, damp and grey winters are undoubtedly less cold now, but the downside is they are greyer and damper. One advantage of centuries of dealing with often cruel elements however is that there is no-one better than the Scots at creating indoor oases of warmth and luxury where aching muscles, tired skin and other lifestyle damage can be gently soothed and cosseted away. And, let’s face it, when it comes to purifying, detoxing and general pampering it’s best to leave it to the experts.

As with many other ‘modern’ inventions, health spas were first developed by the Victorians who believed passionately in the power of water to cure all ills. Since the water in Scotland was considered particularly beneficial there were soon a number of hydropathic establishments all over the country, from Peebles in the Borders to Strathpeffer in the Highlands. Here the sickly, frail or simply over-indulged would regularly retreat not only to take the waters but to undergo water-based treatments such as mud baths, cold showers and seaweed soaks. The regime was spartan – plain food, hard beds, lots of exercise and absolutely no alcohol. How different it all is today.

My mission was to find the best pampering places in Scotland: places where you enjoy luxurious pampering as a residential guest, places where you go for a day visit and places where you pop in when you’re in need of a quick fix. I started at the top. Literally.

My day at.....

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By Geraldine Coates

Section : Health Spas

Page number : 60