Escape Spa is situated in the heart of Cork City as part of The Imperial Hotel. Last tuesday saw us visit to celebrate my sisters birthday and to unwind from life. We have visited the spa several times before. The fact that we return again and again should be testament in itself. We booked a mid week escape that included a treatment, time in the vitality suite and a cocktail/tapas combo afterwards. On entry to the spa you are greeted by very friendly staff that go through your booking with you and ask you to fill out a questionaire to eliminate any health issues. You are also offered fresh juice.
Escape Spa Changing Rooms
After you have completed the form you are shown into the changing rooms. Here you are provided with a robe, slippers and towels. A therapist gave us instruction on how to use the lockers and directed us towards the vitality suite. As soon as you put on that robe, you already begin to relax!
The Vitality Suite
This is where you really begin to unwind. There are loungers for you to relax on while you wait. You can try the hydrotherapy pool and allow the jets to relax your muscles. My favourite is the steam/brine room. If you suffer from sinusitis then this is for you! Just be sure to drink the water they have on offer everywhere you go! Then you are ready for your treatment!
The Treatment
My treatment was by a woman called Karolynn. On first impressions she was professional, friendly and efficient. I was shown to my treatment room and my session began with a cleansing foot ritual. After that I lay on the heated bed and so began the best massage I have ever had. I had a 30 minute back, neck and shoulder massage. It might seem like a short time and I usually have 60 minute treatments BUT Karolynn made every minute count. She eased out all of my knots and tension without hurting me. She didn’t talk (remind me to tell you about the spa visit I had where the therapist told me all about her divorce… throughout the massage…) and she made me feel completely at ease. I would highly recommend you ask for her during your visit. I will be going back!
After The Treatment
When my treatment was finished I was shown to the relaxation room to be reunited with my Mother and my Sister. We were treated to fresh fruit, sorbet and Prosecco. Allowed to relax for as long as we needed, we never felt rushed. The relaxation room in Escape Spa is beautifully decorated, warm and inviting. I could have happily snoozed for the rest of the day!
The Verdict
We really enjoyed our visit and I would suggest anyone treat themselves to a spa afternoon here. Prices are very reasonable. Our package was 79 euro each which included tapas and cocktails afterwards in Seventy Six (watch out for part two where I review this!). You can read more about the packages on offer HERE. The perfect afternoon out. Where is your favourite Spa?
Louise x