We head to the South Coast for a luxurious two-night escape combining restorative spa rituals, Michelin-starred dining and menopause support
Menopause is a big life transition, yet finding the time and space to properly look after ourselves can often feel like another challenge that we struggle to put in the diary. Enter the new GAIA MenoPAUSE Escape at Boringdon Hall Hotel in Devon, a luxurious two-night retreat created for women navigating the physical and emotional changes of perimenopause and menopause.
Set within a magnificent Grade I listed manor house, the year-round wellbeing escape combines a restorative spa experience, added sleep comforts, exceptional Michelin-Star dining, and a MenoPAUSE Support Set valued at £280 to take home. You can enjoy it alone for some much needed me-time or share the experience with a friend. I opted to bring my husband along, making it an indulgent weekend away for two.
A Restful Welcome
Arriving at Boringdon Hall, we were greeted with a refreshing peach lemonade before being shown to our Wellness Room, tucked away in the quieter part of the hotel near the spa. Spacious and beautifully designed, the room paired muted tones with soft textures that created a sense of calm.
We were impressed with the soft 100% bamboo bed linen by Panda London. It was silk-like to the touch and designed to promote deep sleep thanks to its breathability, moisture-wicking properties and temperature regulation. For anyone whose sleep has become unpredictable during menopause, this type of attention to detail is appreciated. For additional sleep support, the hotel also offers guided sleep meditations and relaxation content through its in-house app.
Waiting on the bed was a MenoPAUSE Support Set, which proved a lovely surprise. Inside were Ancient + Brave's Radiant Collagen and True Biome, Adaptogenic Apothecary's Freedom Powder, a GAIA sleep spray, a Panda London bamboo sleep mask, and discounts on perimenopause supplements from Liz Sergeant.
The spacious bathroom was stocked with a generous selection of GAIA products. I really liked the three-step facial cleansing products and body cream; they smelled incredible and felt like small luxuries that made it easier to settle in.
There was plenty to explore beyond our room; Boringdon Hall is an intriguing mix of historic architecture and contemporary additions, with atmospheric corridors, three restaurants, two bars, and a charming Afternoon Tea lounge filled with books and games. The hotels location overlooking the green Devon countryside added to the sense of having escaped the everyday.
Exceptional Dining in Historic Surroundings
Food is a large part of the MenoPAUSE experience, with two contrasting dinners included in the retreat package.
Our first evening was spent at Àclèaf, the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, where Head Chef Scott Paton's modern British cooking made a lasting impression us. The setting was really special; we dined on the grand balcony overlooking the Great Hall with its ornate carvings, oak panelling, and old tapestries providing a dramatic backdrop.
We ate from the Àclèaf four-course signature menu, which was a masterclass in presentation, balance, and creativity. We loved the steamed crab with mango and curry, and could not get enough of the delicate ricotta ravioli. However, our favourite dish of the night by far was the Highland wagyu; it was rich, juicy, and full of flavour. Every dish was meticulously put together, making the dinner a highlight of our stay. A special mention must also go to the waiting staff for their impeccable and warm service.
The following morning, breakfast was served in the bright, sun-filled Spatisserie, with its peaceful views towards Dartmouth National Park. A choice of cold buffet and hot dishes ensured a relaxing start to the day.
On our second evening, we ate at the Mayflower Brasserie. Set in a charming, traditional dining room, it offered a much livelier atmosphere than Àclèaf and heartier plates. We loved the whipped burrata with grilled nectarines starter, and the roasted breast of chicken main. Again, the service was friendly and helpful.
Indulgent Spa Time
With autumn sunshine making an unexpected appearance, we spent a lot of our down time enjoying GAIA Spa, the hotel's adults-only wellness sanctuary. Complimentary access is included with the retreat, so there is no need to rush through it.
The spa facilities include an indoor swimming pool that is heated to 30°C, a hydrotherapy pool with an outdoor swim-through, Finnish and herbal saunas, a crystal salt room, a traditional steam room, and an immersive shower providing different heat experiences. There is also a large sunbathing terrace with alfresco hot tubs.
One of my favourite rooms was the Relaxation Room with its hanging cocoon chairs. Once inside the chair, the gentle swaying made me very sleepy. The room is just outside the main spa area and didn’t seem as popular as the poolside for lounging around, which was all the better for me as I was able to enjoy it all to myself!
The spa runs daily wellness classes, including yoga, Pilates, barre, breathwork and meditation, alongside a fully equipped gym.
A Treatment Designed for Menopause
On the second morning of the retreat, I enjoyed the 90-minute GAIA MenoPAUSE Treatment, designed to nurture the skin, body, and mind. The treatment began with an invigorating foot scrub before moving into a relaxing back, neck and shoulder massage to ease tension. It finished with a soothing GAIA Jade Facial to calm my skin and restore radiance. GAIA Fitness Gel was also applied to my back during the treatment to provide a cooling sensation, perfect for anyone who experiences hot flushes.
My therapist, Megan, was excellent, delivering the treatment with lots of attention and care, and explaining each step as we went along. I left feeling thoroughly relaxed and on cloud nine. The treatment served as a reminder that taking time out for ourselves is paramount for restoring balance, clarity, energy.
A Different Kind of Luxury
All-in-all, the GAIA MenoPAUSE Escape is a fantastic retreat for those in need of a break from everyday life. The sleep-focused bedroom, spa, GAIA MenoPAUSE Treatment, MenoPAUSE Support Set, and indulgent dining created an experience that felt much more well-thought-out than a regular spa weekend. Furthermore, throughout our stay, the staff were consistently warm and friendly, and their hospitality helped make the weekend feel really personal.
Menopause is not something that can be ‘fixed’ by a massage or a weekend away, but having dedicated time to rest, enjoy good food, and explore practical approaches to wellbeing can be a valuable reset.
We left Boringdon Hall feeling blissfully relaxed with the hotel's historic grandeur and Devon views providing a beautiful backdrop to the experience. Whether you are looking for a restorative solo escape or a special break with someone close to you, this is a retreat that encourages you to slow down and make your own wellbeing a priority.
Our tip: If you love slipping into fluffy slippers after a spa treatment, pack your own. The Wellness Rooms provide flip-flops for getting around, but those seeking extra comfort will appreciate bringing something cosier.
Retreat Summary
The retreat: GAIA MenoPAUSE Escape at Boringdon Hall Hotel, Devon.
What's included: A two-night stay in a Wellness Room with Panda London bamboo bedding; breakfast each morning; a four-course dinner at Michelin-starred Àclèaf; a three-course dinner at the Mayflower Brasserie; access to GAIA Spa facilities and wellness classes; a 90-minute GAIA MenoPAUSE Treatment; 10% off additional spa treatments; and the MenoPAUSE Support Set, valued at £280.
Price: £700 for single occupancy or £1,400 for double occupancy for the two-night package.
Getting there: We travelled directly from London Paddington to Plymouth by train (approximately three and a half hours), followed by a 20-minute taxi journey to the hotel. By car, Boringdon Hall is accessible from the A38, with routes from London and the South via the M5 or A303.
Quick links to Boringdon Hall on Instagram: @BoringdonHall @AcleafRestaurant @GAIABoringdon
For more information: GAIA MenoPAUSE Escape at Boringdon Hall
