Image: One of the Vale Spa's new relaxation zones

The Vale Resort near Cardiff, Wales, has announced a 25 per cent increase in spa bookings, following the completion of a £250,000 refurbishment of its facilities undertaken last year.

Last month, the number of bookings for spa breaks increased 20 per cent on the same period in 2010, while day treatment bookings grew 40 per cent in the first four months of this year.

A number of new features were added to The Vale Spa as part of the scheme, including four relaxation zones designed to extend spa visits and to enhance the treatment experience.

The four new relaxation areas - the chill-out, water and slumber zones and the Chromotherapy lounge - were added to existing facilities, which include 19 treatment rooms and a hydrotherapy bath.

A floatation tank, a 20m swimming pool, a whirlpool and a steamroom also form part of the Vale Spa, which is one of Wales' largest and uses products supplied by Sundari, Thalgo, Jessica Nails and Sienna-X.

Claire Caddick, spa and leisure manager at the Vale Resort, said: "It's fantastic to see these encouraging figures, which come as a direct result of the investment that we made through our refurbishment last year.

"Our unique facilities enable the client to take their time, enjoy their treatment for longer and use the entire spa space to relax and unwind, which makes their treatment much more beneficial overall."

The independent Vale Resort, which was acquired in 1994 by retail group Leekes, features a 143-bedroom hotel, sports facilities and a champagne bar in addition to its spa.

Details: www.vale-hotel.com