Want to get ahead of planning your holidays for the New Year? Women’s Fitness writer Lauren Murphy recently went on a spa retreat to Schloss Roxburghe – a wellness-centred estate that lets you enjoy state-of-the-art facilities surrounded by lush Scottish countryside (and a golf course, driving range and indoor/outdoor spa on your doorstep, of course)

Words and photography: Lauren Murphy

We arrived at SCHLOSS Roxburghe after a busy few weeks at home, and it didn’t take long to feel a shift from how full-on life normally is.

On our first morning, we opened the windows in our cottage, and the only sounds were the trees moving and birds chirping – no traffic, no background noise, no hum of everyday life. Just stillness. Everything about the estate encourages you to slow down without forcing it – and I didn’t realise quite how much I needed it until that moment.

Heritage and modern comfort

The main manor house has Scottish character, with high ceilings, open fireplaces, original features and a warmth that made it feel welcoming. With plenty of cosy corners to sit in, whether that’s with a coffee in the morning or a glass of wine in the evening, it feels like a true country house – but with a contemporary feel.

Alongside the historic house sits the newer Estate House, offering a more up-to-date stay. With bright rooms, soft neutral tones, clean lines and lots of natural light, the place felt calm and uncluttered.

We stayed in a two-bedroom self-catering cottage, which was ideal for privacy. The cottage was modern and well equipped, with a full kitchen, comfortable living area and bedrooms finished with good quality linens. It felt cosy without being claustrophobic – and having our own terrace was a real bonus.

Guests staying in the cottages receive a daily credit to use at the Estate Market, which works perfectly for picking up breakfast bits. It’s an added touch that made our stay feel easy and flexible.

The spa and wellness facilities

The spa is a major part of the experience at SCHLOSS Roxburghe – and it’s clear why. Inside, there’s a large relaxation area looking out onto the gardens, along with day beds, bean bags and a very unhurried atmosphere (Colin lay down on one of the day beds ‘just for a minute’ and was asleep almost instantly, which tells you everything you need to know).

But it’s outside that the spa really comes into its own. The heated infinity pool stays warm enough to enjoy whatever the weather, alongside a hot tub, cold plunge pool and two outdoor saunas – one an aroma sauna and the other a built-in Finnish-style sauna, both with views out onto the surrounding trees. We spent hours moving between the different areas, all at our own pace. Nothing was structured, and nothing felt timed.

Treatments are ESPA led and there’s a wide range available, including specialist treatments designed for guests undergoing cancer care. I had the Replenish treatment with Ellie, which combined massage, scalp work and facial elements. I came out feeling noticeably more relaxed, with looser shoulders and a calmer head, which is always the sign of a good treatment.

Fitness and outdoor activities

While the spa is the main draw, there’s plenty on offer if you want to stay active. The fitness suite is well equipped with a good mix of cardio machines and strength equipment, making it easy to keep up with your fitness schedule.

We spent an afternoon at the driving range, which admittedly turned slightly competitive. While Colin was far better than me, as expected, I did manage a few decent shots. It was a relaxed, easy and genuinely fun way to get moving outdoors. The estate also offers archery, fly fishing and access to a championship golf course, as well as a country club where we stopped for a pre-dinner drink.

And beyond the estate, the Scottish Borders are well known for decent walking and cycling routes, from gentle trails to longer hikes for those who want more of a challenge.

Where to eat

Sunlaws is the fine dining restaurant of the estate and focuses on seasonal produce, much of it sourced locally or from the estate itself. The ‘Morning on the Estate’ dish was a great introduction, and the Wagyu special was a real highlight. Afternoon tea in Sunlaws was another standout, enjoyed with views over the gardens.

Charlie’s offers a more casual dining experience and truly delivers on quality. We shared the Chateaubriand one evening, cooked beautifully, and enjoyed caviar bellinis and fresh mojito cocktails. Breakfasts were generous with plenty of choice, and I couldn’t help but order pancakes on both mornings (wellness is about balance, after all).

Highlights

We didn’t leave the estate once during our stay, and at no point did it feel like we were missing out. It had everything – nature, comfort, good food, gentle movement and proper rest.

SCHLOSS Roxburghe isn’t about ticking off wellness activities. It’s about giving you the environment to slow down and reset in your own way. I left feeling calmer, clearer and genuinely refreshed.

And, honestly, we could easily have stayed another night.

At a glance

• Large spa with indoor and outdoor thermal areas
• Heated infinity pool, hot tub, cold plunge and outdoor saunas
• ESPA treatments with experienced therapists
• Well equipped fitness suite
• Golf, driving range, archery and fishing on site
• Scenic walks across the estate and surrounding Scottish Borders
• Seasonal dining
• Peaceful accommodation with easy access to hotel facilities

Book your retreat here: https://schlosshotel-roxburghe.com/en/home. Rates start from £225 per night for a one-bedroom cottage, including a £25 daily breakfast voucher.