Words by Hannah Tapping
A haven of luxury and wellness offers an authentically Cornish experience to all who set foot there.
St Michaels Resort, which stands overlooking the shores of Gylly Beach, beckons travellers to a haven of serenity and indulgence. Seamlessly marrying luxury accommodation, culinary excellence and holistic wellness against a breathtaking backdrop of the Cornish coast, the allure of St Michaels Resort is multifaceted. This seaside haven has earned its reputation not only for its location but also for its commitment to providing an experience that caters for both body and soul while remaining true to its Cornish roots.
From the moment you arrive, the calming influence of the sea breeze and the rhythmic sound of the waves set the tone for a truly immersive retreat. Always greeted with a smile and a traditional Cornish welcome of ‘dydh da’, guests are put at ease from the moment they arrive. The accommodation across the hotel redefines comfort and luxury. Hotel rooms and suites boast understated coastal elegance; the stylish self-catering Liner apartments have sea balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows from which to soak up the sea views, while the newly added Spa Garden Lodges offer the ultimate in private relaxation, each boasting private outdoor baths, perfect for a soak while stargazing. Whichever accommodation you choose, each space is meticulously designed to provide a seamless blend of elegance and comfort. Attention to detail in both design and décor ensures that every guest experiences a retreat marked by sophistication and relaxation and deep slumber is invited, lulled by the sounds of the sea.
Wellness has always lain at the heart of St Michaels Resort. Its spa facilities are a testament to this dedication, offering a range of treatments that cater to both physical and mental well-being. Home to the largest hydrothermal pool in the south west, this oasis of warm water has 21 massage stations and is complemented by a herbal Finnish sauna, experience showers and Cornwall’s only sea salt steam rooms. Guests can indulge in rejuvenating massages, skin-nourishing facials, and a variety of wellness rituals that draw inspiration from both traditional and contemporary practices. The spa’s serene ambiance, coupled with skilled practitioners, creates an oasis of calm where guests can unwind and embark on a journey of self-discovery.
Beyond the pool area, the newly refurbished south-facing spa garden now includes a cold plunge pool and large step-down hot tub. The landscaping echoes the nearby coastal path, with tall grasses nodding in the breeze amongst a sea of deep blue agapanthus. St Michaels also boasts the largest and best-equipped health club in Cornwall, whose next-level facilities are in demand by an oft-oversubscribed 2500-member base.
After a hugely successful calendar of wellness retreats last year, 2024 will see the return of St Michael’s active Cornish breaks. Level-two Wim Hof instructor Cat Paterson, will once again host a four-day journey of self-discovery, learning how the power of breathwork, mindfulness and cold-water endurance combine to bring about a lasting, positive change in the way we live our lives. Open water swim coach Salim Ahmed will lead a wild swimming break, where guests will take to the calm waters of Gylly Beach under his expert tutelage.
For those preferring to stay above the water rather than in it, Brendon Prince of The Long Paddle, who has paddled every inch of the British coast will accompany guests on a stand-up paddle board exploration around the coast. The Beach Yoga break is always hugely popular and is an opportunity to indulge in a combination of yoga and mindfulness. All Active Breaks are inclusive of sumptuous coastal accommodation, a two-hour Hydrothermal Experience and spa access, complementary health club gym and swim, a daily Cornish breakfast and dinner on each evening.
A Cornish culinary journey also awaits guests at St Michaels Resort, where sourcing local is more than just a whim. A large proportion of all fresh produce used in the kitchens is local and this is reflected in the Brasserie on the Bay’s rolling three-night menu. The ‘catch of the day’ is landed by local boats and comes fresh from Newlyn Fish Market each morning. Pork from Primrose Herd is slow reared on the hills of west Cornwall, with Westcountry Farms supplying fresh salad and vegetables, to name just a few. Under the watchful eye of Executive Head Chef Darren Millgate, the chefs at St Michaels take pride in presenting dishes that not only satisfy the palate but also reflect the rich culinary heritage of Cornwall, with an emphasis on quality, flavour and creativity. Whether indulging in a leisurely brunch in the Garden Kitchen or a romantic dinner overlooking the sea, guests can expect an appetising adventure that complements the overall ethos of the resort.
St Michael’s cellar collection is no less impressive and, of course, includes some of Cornwall’s finest. Camel Valley Brut and Knightor’s Carpe Diem wines lead the local charge, closely followed by local beer and cider courtesy of The Harbour Brewing Co. and Cornish Orchards. For cocktail aficionados, Loveday, Tarquins, Colwith Farm, Pocketful of Stones and Rosemullion Distillery raise the bar with a full measure of Cornish spirit.
St Michaels isn’t just a place of wellness and relaxation, but also a launchpad for exploration and adventure beyond the resort. Its prime location allows guests to explore Falmouth town, with its rich maritime history, art galleries and vibrant local culture. For those with a penchant for history, nearby landmarks such as Pendennis Castle offer a glimpse into the region’s storied past. Take a stroll along the promenade and soak up the view out across Falmouth Bay, or venture further afield along the South West Coast Path, taking in the beaches of Swanpool and Maenporth before rounding Rosemullion Head to the head of the Helford River. The resort’s concierge service is adept at curating personalised experiences, ensuring that guests can make the most of their stay.
St Michaels Resort stands as a beacon of coastal luxury, a destination where the ebb and flow of the sea harmonises with the pursuit of wellbeing. It’s much more than a resort though; it’s an experience. The carefully curated blend of elegance and adventure is informed by its brand pillars: Cornish, coastal, wellness and relaxation. These underlying currents carry guests on a voyage of discovery, where the memories made linger long after the waves have receded. For those seeking an immersive escape, St Michaels Resort is not just a destination; it’s a coastal symphony of bliss.