The Grove, Chandler's Cross, Hertfordshire, UK (review)

This hotel has everything to be a small patch of paradise just a stone's throw from London.

Amazing grounds, gorgeous lounge rooms for afternoon tea and Champagne aperitif with canapés, an exquisite spa, some beautiful suites in the Mansion and the pièce de résistence: an exquisite spa containing a beautiful black tiled 22m indoor pool. 

If only, ...... 

• If only investments in interior decoration, such as carpets and furniture, hadn't stopped, then you wouldn't be walking on murky beige-brown-ish floors, looking at scratches and faded plexiglass side tables or sitting on stained white sofas. 

• If only, the claimed 5* quality resulted in similar quality, discipline and professionalism of waiting staff, rather than those that prefer chatting with each other. 

• If only, they hadn't sold out to becoming a hotel focused on attracting conference groups that can't be kept apart from regular guests, then you might actually be treated well and feel special, which makes forking out a hefty sum to treat yourself to a special weekend actually worth it.
  

It saddens me to say that besides the spa, the Grove actually doesn't meet expectations anymore. I first came to The Grove when it had just opened and it was such a fabulous experience. Unfortunately that is no longer possible, I felt like an invisible and unimportant guest during my stay, and no matter how beautiful the surroundings are, that just really makes it not worth it. Too bad, as I had really wanted to try that gorgeous junior suite in the mansion. Ah well....

Where the hotel does not live up to expectations, the spa goes above and beyond, and will indeed spoil and pamper you beyond your imagination.

As mentioned above the black tiled 22m swimming pool is a dream, perfect temperature and as peacefully quiet as in a zen meditation class. Maybe the black tiles exude inspiration and magic because the feeling of swimming in  this black nothingness, makes you feel like you are dreaming.

The other facilities are carefully tended to and maintained throughout your stay. The Natura Bissé diamond facial was one of the best I've ever had. Lunch was lovely and the massage really took away all the stress I was carrying around. The garden has luscious lounge beds where you can read, chill and sunbathe on a beautiful day.

You know that glow when you're completely relaxed and just feel warm and happy without a care in the world? Well the wonderful people at the Sequoia Spa will get you there!