No one knows the South West better than Andy Cooper, former editor of a luxury glossy county magazine – from championing the region’s foodie producers to showcasing the homegrown talent of Devon and Cornwall.
He was recently invited to visit the Cary Arms and Spa, Torquay.
I have always loved the Cary Arms. Over many, many visits through the years it has never failed me. Yes, it enjoys the benefits of an iconic location as you meander down a steep Devon hill and the full glory of a beautiful bay is revealed before you. But location alone won’t win the plaudits. This is a place which delivers a first class experience to enhance the natural plus point of being in a superb spot.
The Cary Arms sits in an amazing Devon seaside location.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
And on those many occasions I have visited two things have impressed me about the Cary Arms. Firstly, the consistency of its offering, both service and food. And – if this is not a tautology – the ever-changing range of the facilities and experiences on offer to visitors.
My visits, sadly, tend to be a few months apart and what remains impressive is the fact that each time I return there has been a tweak or two to keep the place stimulating and enjoyable.
The pool is in a superb spot overlooking the bar.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
Why not elongate your visit with a stay in one of the luxury rooms?
Photo: The Cary Arms.
The introduction of the luxury Thalgo Spa some years ago was a definite elevation in experiences and now, taking things to a whole new level, the Cary Arms has introduced new treatments by TEMPLESPA, the British luxury skincare and beauty brand.
The spa has been a superb addition to the facilities at the hotel.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
Try the exotic experience shower.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
But more on my visit to the spa in a moment. Firstly, let’s have lunch! And why not take it on the terrace, staring out over azure waters and watching the world go by in the bay below. To find oneself sitting outside the Cary Arms with a glass of something chilled contemplating a menu packed with flavours and finesse is one of life’s great pleasures, the anticipation meeting the ambience head on.
The inviting pool at the Cary Arms.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
The kitchen team prides itself on making the most of local produce – on land and from the sea – and on my visit this was exemplified by my selection of a starter of pan-seared Brixham scallops, crème fraîche, chilli jam and chorizo crumb followed by a main of crab pappardelle in a lemon, chilli and parsley white wine cream sauce. Both dishes were flavoursome, fresh and had clearly been prepared with care and attention. Top marks all round.
It would have been easy to then just relax in the sun, but my spa visit was calling. A short stroll to the top of the hotel and there, with more magnificent views fitted as standard, is the haven within a haven which is the Thalgo Spa. It’s a fabulous space, with a tranquil waterfall hydrotherapy pool, soothing steam room, sauna, exotic experience shower, and sun-drenched terrace.
One of the treatment rooms can be used by couples.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
Lay back and indulge in some luxury.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
The pool is in a magnificent location.
Photo: The Cary Arms.
There are also two private treatment rooms, including one for couples, with a wide variety of treatments on offer. I opted for the novel sounding VIP Golden Truffle Experience, which started with a leg energiser and an invigorating full body scrub followed by a relaxing massage using advanced anti-ageing body techniques, both tightening and toning. It felt pretty darned relaxing and luxurious anyway, but an upgrade to the option of a champagne and truffles deluxe facial sounded like the ultimate spa sojourn. Maybe next time.
Take doggie to enjoy the views too!
Photo: The Cary Arms.
Treatment completed – but with advice ringing in my ears that some hydration would be a good idea afterwards – I headed out to the terrace for a cuppa and a contemplation of the relaxing and rejuvenating experience I had once again had at the classy Cary Arms.
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