Castlemartyr, County Cork, Ireland (00 353 21 4644050; www.capellacastlemartyr.com)

Service at Capella, a grand 17th-century hotel and spa, is a high point of any stay here. However, the main attraction is the 7,500sq m spa and fitness centre, Auriga, winner of Best New Hotel Resort Spa at the Irish Beauty Industry Awards 2008. And it is easy to see why.

Atmosphere: Enormous, light and airy, the spa’s “ozonated” pool is surrounded by glass, allowing the swimmer to look out over the estate’s manicured gardens, while the “vitality pool” emits such effervescent bubbles that our spy was literally floating. Attention to detail is impresssive: the showers release “tropical” or “ice” essential oil aromas that make them the perfect antidote to an intensive sauna session, and the day beds in the relaxation room come with pillow iPods playing soothing tunes. Bliss.

Treatments: Auriga’s treatments are informed by the lunar cycle. As it was a full moon, rose was the focus scent. Head therapist Hazel began the Organic Pharmacy facial with a granular scrub, followed with a mud mask and thorough rose-oil massage, and finished with a replenishing serum to enliven the skin. The finale was reiki healing. Our spy’s wellbeing was restored.

Highs: The luxurious, spotless shared areas and unfailingly helpful staff.

Lows: Endless piped Enya.

Marks out of five: Four and a half.

If you have a salon that you either love or hate, e-mail sarah.vine@thetimes.co.uk