Beautifully located among miles of Cotswolds countryside, De Vere Cotswold Water Park creates a wedding-day backdrop like no other. Situated right on the edge of one of the 152 lakes that make up the Cotswold Water Park itself, the scenery is undoubtedly the unrivalled star of the show here. When I arrived in my room and put my bags down, flinging the balcony doors open wide and stepping out to take in the view was number one on the to-do list; even with the threatening storm clouds growing ever closer. The design of this oh-so modern hotel has clearly been intended to work seamlessly with its natural surroundings. Wood, Cotswolds stone and glass combine to create a light, airy and contemporary vibe, as well as a stylish, neutral canvas to fit in with any wedding theme. WHERE TO WED You can tie the knot here in any one of an array of stylish spaces. The Mallard Suite’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer sensational views of the lake, making this the ultimate romantic spot. Natural light floods in and you can later join your loved ones on the balcony for summer drinks or a barbecue. What’s more, uplighters and built-in heaters allow the celebrations to go on long into the evening. The Kingfisher Suite is a light and airy space too, also offering magnificent views. It’s super-popular for weddings and with direct access to the outdoor decking area, which welcomes you for barbecues and al fresco drinks, it’s easy to see why. The suite itself is so flexible, that you can split it into three sections to zone your day appropriately. It has its own private entrance and bar area, so you can feel happily cocooned as you celebrate your big day. The Starling Suite, with its dramatic full-length windows offers sensational views from the first floor of the hotel. A welcoming space for more intimate occasions, it offers access to the nearby mezzanine providing the perfect spot for welcome drinks. The Drake Suite too is best suited to intimate weddings. It easily transforms from ceremony to celebrations with a dancefloor. The Teal Room again allows you to enjoy beautiful lakeside views from its private balcony. Ideal for the “I dos,” it can be combined with one of the larger rooms for the wedding breakfast and evening do. TIME TO RELAX Following my sneak peak into the venue’s wonderful wedding spaces, I was off to Spa6 for a spot of R&R – it’s tough work you know! There are a wide range of treatments on offer here should you wish to partake, but a spell in the pool and surrounding facilities were just the ticket for me. For its size this spa contains an impressive amount of experiences. From the tranquil pool, with its various hydrotherapy options, to the sauna, steam room, thermal loungers and experience shower, there’s plenty here to rejuvenate the senses, and make you wish you didn’t have to leave. You can even book some amazing therapies such as a Rasul Ritual or Dry Flotation. DINNER DATE If we can judge the wedding breakfast you can look forward to here by the menu in The Brasserie, let me tell you, you’re in for a treat! I enjoyed a delicious starter of smoked duck breast with rocket, parmesan, and an orange and blackberry vinaigrette. Vibrant on the plate it offered the perfect blend of flavours for the palate from the rich saltiness of the meat to the sweet-tasting fruit and bitter leaves. I followed this with the incredible seared fillet of sea bass with risotto verde, and orange and fennel puree. The fish was cooked to perfection and every mouthful was sheer joy! Being cheese obsessed, I finished my meal with the continental cheese selection, beautifully served with artisan biscuits, quince jelly, celery and apricot chutney. I am most definitely sending my compliments to the chef! BEDTIME You and your loved ones are sure to enjoy a sound night’s sleep here, with many rooms taking full advantage of the breathtaking view, and some recently re-furnished in the New England style. We found our corner room, with panoramic views across two of its sides, to be a haven of tranquillity – it was easy to shut out the hustle and bustle of the hotel and enjoy a wonderful night’s sleep in comfort. BLISS Lakeside Kelly Andrews headed to Gloucestershire to sample the delightful surroundings at De Vere Cotswold Water Park BOOK IT! De Vere Cotswold Water Park www.devere.co.uk/cotswold-water-park-hotel 01285 864 000 waterpark.events@devere.com Scan to view video www.daniellamarinosphotography.com www.daniellamarinosphotography.com REVIEW 25
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