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Chewton Glen

By Nicole Smallwood on Tuesday 4 November 2008

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Marie Claire Spa Review: Chewton Glen

It only takes an hour and a half from central London to reach this mecca of calm and serenity. Nestled in the heart of the New Forest and a ten-minute walk from the beach, the hotel ticks every box and is ideal for couples or a girly mini break alike.

Rooms at the hotel vary from bronze, silver and gold to suites with balconies, overlooking the rolling grounds. Ours was beautifully decked out in gorgeous colours with huge plasma TVs (including one in the bathroom!) and an enormous comfy bed. We even had a water feature on our own private balcony!

Though tearing yourself away from the suites is tough, it isn't too taxing to visit the on-site spa which has welcomed celebrity clientele from Kate Moss to Gwyneth Paltrow. Look out for the gorgeous natural beauty line by Linda Meredith, favoured by the glitterati, and tailored to individual skin types.

It would be a travesty not to take advantage of the stunning countryside, but if you've forgotten your wellies, don't panic, there are pairs to borrow waiting at the back door of the hotel to take you down for a stroll along the beach. And if you're feeling a little more active, try your hand on the golf course or tennis courts.

If you've worked up an appetite and deserve a treat, the buzzy restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients and produces absolutely delicious dishes, including an impressive fish menu. And if you still have room after dessert, the cheese board is possibly the biggest I've ever seen!

It’s not surprising Chewton Glenn has won countless awards; the hotel's attention to detail – from the roaring log fires to the wellies by the back door – is overwhelming, giving you a relaxing sense you're residing in a friend's country pad – a very rich friend, that is.

Details: Chewton Glen, New Milton, Hampshire, BH25 6QS (01425 275341, www.chewtonglen.com)

Review by Nicole Smallwood

Release date: Tuesday 4 November 2008