By Jane Mayne
The Greek goddesses of health (Althea) and beauty (Sophia) are the inspiration behind the new AltiraSpa concept.
Situated on the Arabella Country Estate in the Kogelberg biosphere reserve, AltiraSpa is essentially an expanded version of the now year-old Western Cape Hotel and Spa.
According to director of Wellness, Rob Cowling, AltiraSpa's guest profile is "the resort guest who enjoys the exhilarating benefits of the moment".
"People are seeking unique experiences, so we've used what's unique to us locally. We cater for a broad mix of clients, but essentially we are a resort spa, as opposed to a destination spa," he said.
"We deal with wellness first. That is a big challenge. We've expanded from eight to 18 treatment rooms, so we try to deliver on that promise. Because we deal with guests who are transient, we can't change their lifestyles, so we focus rather on wellness intervention programmes," he added.
The facility offers an impressive array of services, which range from a brine pool to the Hamam Centre (with its Rassoul Chamber based on a Turkish bath), hydro-pools, saunas, bubble-jet therapy, a jacuzzi, plunge pool, and a fitness studio.
Or, for those who fancy something more extraordinary, there's also the option of having a re-mineralising hydrotherapy tub, or a Dead Sea
body wrap.
The venue's Aquabella Spa & Wellness Centre offers guests the chance to make use of therapies, such as massage (Swedish or essential oil), reiki and reflexology. Body spa treatments include the Ahava option, which uses anything from cocoa mud to lavender oil.
Minerals from the sea can be soaked up with options like a 60-minute Enzymatic Sea Marine Mud Pack, or Healing Ocean Wrap, which relies on seaweed to revitalise and detoxify the body. Meanwhile, Dermalogica skincare treatments include facials and a hydro active body salt scrub.
Cowling explained the seven pillars behind the spa philosophy: beauty (skincare, pedicure), harmony (healing power of touch), vitality (fitness), aqua (healing water), life balance (meditation, yoga), nature (the biosphere), and nutrition (prudent eating).
As one of over 40 journalists invited to sample AltiraSpa's services, I can highly recommend the venue's aqua facilities. Another big feature is the luxury accommodation.
The only downside for me, was a bad reaction to the food. But hopefully that was a one-off event.
For those who are able to treat themselves to a stay at a sumptuous five-star hotel, structured packages are available.
There is a two-night package from R850 pp sharing per night (valid until 30 September), or you can inquire about the standard Retreat or Total Wellness Package.
To make a booking, phone 028 284 0000, or visit their website at www.altiraspa.co.za