As a christmas gift one year I received a voucher to be used at Seaham Hall Spa. I had never had a professional spa treatment before so was very curious as to what kind of treats I would be able to have and I was particularly excited because I had heard only rave reviews about the Serenity Spa.

I decided to be kind and opted for the Heave and Eart treatment which is designed for 2 people, preferably your partner or someone you know very well. Sun-Fri is costs £170 per person or £180 Saturday. At first I was a bit put off at the price as it seemed so much money, but as i had a voucher for part of the payment and had heard only good things I booked up anyway.

Heaven and earth consists of a Rasul, Elmis Hot Stone Body and facial, Indian Head Massage and full use of the spa with a free 3 course meal at the Ozone.

The Rasul is something I had never heard of but is described as 'A traditional Arabian cleansing ritual which uses mud, steam and copious amounts of water'. Basically you enter a room where you cna get changed into a swim suit. You are given a selection of muds for your body, face and scalp on a special tray and an explanation to how you use them. You then enter a large shower type steam room and apply the mud to each other (which is why it is best to bring your partner!) or you can apply it to yourself. You wait a set time until they dry onto your skin, then a hot tropical shower will falls down and you wash it all off.

It was very messy but loads of fun covering each other in mud! We had more of the giggles than relaxation but the mud really helped to cleanse my skin. It felt softer, thoroughly clean and refreshed. A very unusual treatment.

Next was the Elmis hot Stone body and facial. One word, WOW! We were taken to a private room where we got changed and comfortable under the towel. There was peaceful relaxing music playing. The stones were heated but the massage began with oils and was so smoothing. Then something cold was massaged into my back and was directly followd by the hot stones. It was so nice going from one sensation to another. The whole thing was relaxing and we got a nice facial using Elmis cleansers, toners and moisturisers. We both agreed that was such an amazing treatment.

Finally we got an indian head massage which felt so good and tingly. The staff really know what they are doing and treat you so well. In between each treatment we could use the spa or wait in the waiting area, where freshly made exotic smoothies were available or water for no charge.

The Spa itself was very nice with plenty indoor and outdoor loungers, a decent size pool, massage chairs, 2 outdoors hottubs, plunge pool, sauna, jacuqi, steam room, tropical showers etc.

We were entitled to a free meal at the Ozone which was delicious, quite small and fancy, but light enough so I wasn't bloated and unable to use the facilities. It was delicious and filled the spot nicely.

Overall a lovely day, I only wish I could afford to go again!