Edinburgh Reviewed; the Aveda Spa at the Scotsman Hotel

 I have always wanted to go into the Scotsman Hotel, something about its grand size and location in such an iconic city has always appealed to me. So of course I was thrilled to be offered the chance to go and have a look around and it did not disappoint! Since opening in 2001, this 5 star boutique hotel has been a unique residence for those visiting the capital, steeped in history and heritage (it was formerly home to the Scotsman newspaper) the hotel really is as breathtaking on the inside as it is outside and now their Spa has teamed up with Aveda to create the perfect den of tranquillity just off the bustling royal mile.

Aveda were chosen for their holistic approach to spa treatments, offering a superb line up of products backed by their ethical stance makes them the perfect partners for the spa. With treatments now rooted in Ayurveda, the  Indian healing tradition based on the knowledge of life and the interconnectedness of all things, clients really are in for a treat. Not only do you leave feeling relaxed and pampered but the treatments are designed to work on the mind and emotions too. On top of this stunning new treatment menu and relaxing treatment rooms, clients can also make use of the absolutely gorgeous stainless steel swimming pool and sauna and steam room facilities too- the full package for those looking for serious pampering. 

I tried out the 45 minute Stress-Fix massage (£45) while I was there and was thoroughly impressed. Collected from my pool side spot, my therapist led me to my treatment room where she explained the massage in detail and found out about any trouble spots I would like her to focus on. The massage and oils used were heavenly, I loved that she would place her hand near my nose  so I could start and end the massage taking deep breaths and inhaling the relaxing aromas of lavender and clary sage, little touches such as this really forced me to relax ( something I often struggle with). Combining Swedish and Deep tissue massage and incorporating foot reflexology and acupressure points, the treatment was a perfect blend of calm and relaxation while still leaving me feel fresh and rejuvenated.

Something that was so different from anywhere I have been before was the attentional to detail in their relaxation room you are taken to after treatment. When you walk in your therapist pops you under a huge, soft duvet which was such a beautiful touch. I drifted right off ( with other people in the room all doing the same!) and thoroughly enjoyed that post treatment feeling to the max. On top of that I was poured a cup of the most stunning herbal tea I have ever had, I loved it so much I was straight on the email to the Spa's lovely manager Caroline the next day to find out what it was. It was actually Aveda's own specially mixed Comforting Tea which is a beautiful blend of peppermint, liquorice and basil- that might not sound right, but really it has to be tasted to be believed!

With Spa packages starting from only £60, the Aveda Spa is excellent value for money. They have worked hard to make sure every element of your visit is perfect- and is well worth checking out on your next trip to Edinburgh.