Austria Spa Retreat at Bad Hofgastein

Viewed from the outside the Alpen Therm at looks a bit like some sort of space station situated rather incongruously in the beautiful valley of Bad Hofgastein.

However staying at the 4* Hotel Österreichischerhof means you can access it via an underground walkway and only have to slip on your swimwear, bathrobe (provided) and some flip flops.

Staying at the Hotel Österreichischerhof you are given unlimited free access to the Alpen Therm as part of the Crystal Lakes package. The bracelet you are given for entry can also be loaded with money at the spa reception as there are no cash transactions.

Libby and I loved the spa! Spas in the UK tend to be "adult only" but this one is open to children - there is a specific family-friendly area with slides and activities but children can still enter the other pools.

The naturally-occurring radon in the water apparently has positive healthy effect on your immune system and is said to work well on all sorts of conditions. One man we spoke to said it had an amazing effect on his arthritis.

You can swim from the interior pool to the external one where there are also sun loungers and fantastic panoramic views of the valley and mountains plus another pool for swimming lengths. Bubble beds and massage jets are there to relax and envigorate you. We also joined in the daily water aerobics class.

Strangely for a spa so dedicated to health the restaurant seemed to cater more for the something and chips brigade although there was a large salad bar. The food was quite expensive but after the huge breakfasts on offer at the Hotel Österreichischerhof (and an early dinner) you really don't need much refueling.

The Sauna World area is for over 16s only and this is a designated nudist area. Even if you don't fancy exposing yourself, Sauna World is worth a visit (you can keep your robe on at this point) for the mineral water bar where you can choose a water to drink for various conditions or ailments.

An absolute must for stressed out mums (and daughters aged 16+) is Woman's World – a silent area where you can relax and read or just chill or sunbathe outside and take advantage of the steam and sauna rooms and tea bar.

Alpen Therm is open daily 900am to 11.00pm (10pm on Thursday/Friday and Saturday).

Anne Coates and her daughter were guests of Crystal Lakes (tel: 0871 230 8180, www.crystallakes.co.uk)

Prices from £469 including flights, transfers, seven nights half board and unlimited free use of hotel facilities and the Alpen Therme.