Nothing really beats a spa celebration (a growing trend we are seeing here at SpaFinder), especially when the champagne is flowing and the  ambiance literally forces you to “chillax”.  I was lucky enough to visit The Sanctuary in Covent Garden last week for just such a day.  It did the trick – leaving me feeling ultra spoilt and extremely pampered by the best-known day spa in all of the UK – and, why shouldn’t I be? – it was my birthday after all!

The famous swing at The Sanctuary

One of my best friends was also celebrating her birthday so she joined in the fun. It wouldn’t have been the same on my own.  The Sanctuary is very much about sharing the experience.  From the hot tub (our first stop) to the Koi Lounge, where you can lay together in double loungers, gossiping, eating and drinking and watching the biggest, most beautiful koi frolick in their indoor pool.

Anyone who’s been there will know that The Sanctuary is a perfect place for a girlie get-together – whether it’s a big bash in the evening for a hen party, a low-key mum-daughter spa day or just a few friends looking to chill out.  Since it’s an all-female spa, the atmosphere is unique and, I must say, welcomed.  I’ve been to many spas in my day and there was something special about the female camaraderie here – whether you’re on your own or in a group.  It really changes everything…women are just different when they’re not around men!

I had two treatments – a body scrub that was particularly amazing, but both were far too short!  I wished they’d gone on much longer than the 30 minutes I had booked.  Note to self: must always book full hour treatments, especially when I return for my next visit to The Sanctuary!