June 19th 2024.
There's just something about being near water that fills my heart with joy. As we pulled up to Trump Turnberry, I couldn't help but take a deep breath. This place has been blessed with stunning views of the Firth of Clyde and Bass Rock for over a century. The fresh sea breeze blew fiercely, making the Saltire flag flutter proudly above the Golf Clubhouse. The warm sun beat down on the grand 198-room hotel, which has stood on Ayrshire's coast since 1906. Though it started out as a simple Station Hotel and served as a military base, Trump Turnberry has now become a luxurious playground for adventure-seekers in southwest Scotland.
The guests who visit this place come in all shapes and forms, from avid clay shooters to enthusiastic horseback riders, off-road adventurers, and water sports enthusiasts. But most of them come with one thing in common - their trusty golf clubs. They are drawn to the world-renowned Ailsa 18-hole golf course, which we'll talk about later. But for now, I was in search of a more relaxing way to start my weekend - a visit to The Spa at Turnberry.
The Spa at Turnberry boasts a breathtaking view of Bass Rock. It was just a short walk through the winding corridors of the hotel from our deluxe room. I was excited to hear about their new offering - the Gelida Cryotherapy treatments. These treatments are believed to help reduce fat, firm and rejuvenate the skin using innovative technology and cold therapy. But for those who prefer traditional treatments like me, there are full body massages, detox body wraps, and hydrotherapy baths to indulge in. I opted for the 75-minute ishga hot stone massage, which sounded like the perfect way to relax and unwind.
As I entered the spa, I was greeted by a friendly receptionist who asked me to fill out a simple form. She wanted to know about any allergies or specific areas I wanted my massage therapist to focus on. I mentioned my tension-prone shoulder blades and lower back, and she noted it down for my masseuse, Marianne, to address. The full body massage included the use of heated Basalt stones, which are known to calm the mind, relieve body tension, and open up energy pathways. After a busy period of meeting deadlines and rushing across Scotland, I was ready to surrender myself to Marianne's skilled hands.
The Relaxation Suite at the spa was filled with a lovely scent, but it was nothing compared to what was to come. The ishga organic Scottish seaweed skincare products were heavenly, to say the least. As I lay on the comfortable massage table, Marianne began working on my feet and legs with the invigorating body oil, which had a blend of essential oils like lavender, rose, geranium, juniper, and lemongrass. It was a challenge to stay awake in this peaceful oasis.
As Marianne moved on to my back, shoulders, and neck, the aroma of the oil grew stronger, and I sank deeper into relaxation. It was the perfect time for her to work on those pesky knots. I had requested a firm pressure, and she delivered exactly that. Marianne, who has been working at Turnberry since the 90s, knew exactly where to target and struck the right balance between gentle movements and deep tissue massage. For the second half of the treatment, I was lying on my back with a refreshing, cool towel over my eyes. Marianne worked her magic on my feet, shins, thighs, arms, and hands.
As with any good massage, time flew by, and before I knew it, it was over. The 75 minutes had felt like 15, but I left feeling more relaxed and with deeply moisturized skin. Plush sofas, herbal teas, a lemon sorbet, and a kombucha health shot were waiting for me in the Relaxation Suite. I then made my way to the outdoor seating area, wrapped in a fluffy white robe, to watch the starlings dance in the sky.
My plus one and I stepped out of the hotel's revolving doors, and he couldn't stop beaming as he took in the breathtaking view of the golf course. He was right; this place truly is a golfer's paradise. Trump Turnberry has always been synonymous with luxury for golfers. The sun was shining, and the rolling green fairways of the three golf courses glistened against the rugged Ayrshire coastline. The Clubhouse was buzzing with players of all ages and nationalities, eager to experience this legendary course. The walls were adorned with photographs, showcasing the rich history of this resort, which has hosted The Open Championship four times. Some of the biggest names in golf have battled it out on these links to claim the coveted Claret Jug. My plus one was excited to create his own memories at Turnberry. The nine-hole Arran course might not be as renowned as its sister courses, Ailsa and King Robert the Bruce, but it still offers a challenging game and stunning views of the lighthouse.
As we walked out to the first tee, my plus one shared his favorite holes and shots with me. He left with his head held high, having not lost a single golf ball. If a full round of golf isn't your thing, there are excellent practice facilities, including a driving range and a "Wee Links" pitch and putt, which can be a fun activity for the whole family.
A Day Spa Experience at The Spa at Turnberry starts at £95, which includes full access to the facilities. The 75-minute ishga hot stone massage is priced at £175. For more information, please visit their website.
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