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Issue 101 | Autumn 2026

THE NO.1 MAGAZINE FOR SPA AND WELLNESS LEADERS

WAY OF A WOMAN

Six Senses’ new retreat leads our Wellness Trends focus

FESTIVE RETAILING

The best new products and expert advice to boost sales

SEASONS AND SENSES We visit Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu in Germany

THE BIG QUESTION

We ask the experts to debate the role of alcohol in spas

See Transformation From Every Angle N E W Pro-Collagen Future Restore Eye Serum

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Events

EUROPEAN SPAEVENT 2027Save the date

8 FEBRUARY 2027 · CORINTHIA LONDON

“Hosting the European Spa Event is a proud moment for Corinthia – an inspiring gathering of passionate professionals shaping the future of our industry.” Kerry Turpin Global head of spa and wellness, Corinthia Hotels

...

Start 2027 with momentum Spa’s most influential people. Together in one room.

Join us at Corinthia London for an invitation-only gathering of spa leaders, innovators and leading brands. Limited VIP guest places will be released in November LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Fresh thinking, shared experience and insight from some of spa’s leading voices

SPA & WELLNESS INNOVATIONS

Discover new ideas, products and innovations from a curated selection of leading spa and wellness brands

NETWORKING SUPPER

Time to connect, exchange ideas and build meaningful relationships across the spa industry

EUROPEAN SPA LEADERS’ RESOURCE 2027

Be the first to read our new edition – the home of spa intelligence, celebrating people, brands and places

CURATED VIP GIFTS

Guests will receive an exclusive collection of premium spa and wellness gifts, specially curated for the event

INVITATION ONLY

An invitation-only gathering of spa and wellness leaders - limited to 200 guests

Leadership. Connection. Conversations that matter.

Welcome I SS U E 101 | AU T U M N 2026

A season of possibility

eadership is hard won and often challenging. After more than two decades working alongside spa leaders, I know that great businesses rarely happen by chance. You can have all the right ingredients, but without clear leadership, creative thinking and the confidence to make good decisions, even the best teams can fall short. This matters even more in the human-to-human business of delivering exceptional wellbeing services. At European Spa, our role is to help you lead by sharing the intelligence, insight and ideas that matter. As always, we are looking ahead. For autumn, Mark Smith has spent the summer curating our annual Festive Retail Guide, bringing together the best in spa gifting, alongside expert retail advice to help maximise your sales (p32). We also present our pick of product and treatment launches On the Menu (p91) and deliver the latest innovations and design expertise in Style (p117). Across Europe, we spotlight five exceptional new spas that have caught our attention (p70) and go behind the

scenes at two extraordinary destinations – including Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany (p16) – to meet the people and partners bringing their vision to life. Bringing a global perspective, we check into Thailand’s iconic Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary to meet general manager and director of wellness development Gopal Kumar and discover how this trailblazing destination is evolving under new ownership (p98). Adding further spa intelligence, guest expert Louise Molloy, director of spa at Park Hyatt London River Thames, explores the fundamentals of successful spa operations (p64). We also welcome Anna Bjurstam, who exclusively introduces her new consultancy Wahayla and shares her perspective on creating successful spa businesses (p26). There is much more to discover, all carefully curated to help you lead with greater knowledge and clarity. I hope this issue sparks fresh thinking, valuable connections and ideas you can take back into your own business. Stay well,

European Spa editorial director and founder Sarah Camilleri (centre) with managing editor Wendy Golledge and deputy editor Mark Smith at our 100th edition celebration at Park Hyatt London River Thames (see p52)

www.europeanspamagazine.com

WHEN SCIENCE

MEETS LUXURY

PHYTOMER unveils its latest exceptional creation: PERLES DES MERS Longevity Cream. A masterpiece of marine biotechnology, designed to enhance the skin and preserve its youthful glow, day after day. Blending high performance with exquisite refinement, this treatment reflects our definition of true luxury: a rare harmony of scientific innovation, natural elegance and deep respect for nature.

DISCOVER PERLES DES MERS

i n finfo-phytomer@australianbodycare.co.uk o-phy tomer @australianbodycare.co.uk - 01892 750850

Meet the team European Spa is the No.1 business magazine for spa and wellness leaders

D I G I T A L

E D I T I O N

Issue 101 | Autumn 2026

THE NO.1 MAGAZINE FOR SPA AND WELLNESS LEADERS

Sarah Camilleri

Mark Smith

Wendy Golledge

Editorial director and founder

Deputy editor and events lead

Managing editor

A respected magazine editor with over 30 years’ experience, Sarah founded European Spa in 2007 to help the spa industry flourish. An influential voice in the global wellness community, she serves on the media advisory board of the British Beauty Council and supports the invaluable work of the SATCC and Made for Life Foundation.

Mark is a leading voice within the European Spa team. As deputy editor and events lead, he produces features, interviews and industry reports. In this issue, he visits Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary in Thailand, rounds up the latest Wellness Trends, spotlights five of the best new spa openings and brings us festive retail advice.

Always up to date with the latest trends, property openings and appointments, in this issue, Wendy visits Mountain Spring Spa at Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu. She also reports back from European Spa’s 100th edition celebration at Park Hyatt London River Thames, and spotlights the best in spa style innovations.

WAY OF A WOMAN

Six Senses’ new retreat leads our Wellness Trends focus

FESTIVE RETAILING

The best new products and expert advice to boost sales

SEASONS AND SENSES We visit Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu in Germany

THE BIG QUESTION

We ask the experts to debate the role of alcohol in spas

Editorial director Sarah Camilleri sarah.camilleri@spapublishing.com Deputy editor Mark Smith mark.smith@spapublishing.com Managing editor Wendy Golledge wendy.golledge@spapublishing.com Art director Richard Page richard@spapublishing.com

Expert contributors We would like to thank our industry experts for sharing their insight in this edition:

Production and online editor David Fagan david.fagan@spapublishing.com Production and proofing Angela Sharpe angela@spapublishing.com

Emma Pridding

Anna Bjurstam

Louise Molloy

Anna’s new company, Wahayla, advises hospitality, fitness and medical brands on what’s coming next in wellness and longevity. In this issue she writes that a back-to-basics approach is needed to lay the foundations for a strong spa offering.

Known for delivering successful spa openings, driving commercial performance and developing high-performing teams, Louise joins us to discuss the importance of partnerships and clarity to spa business success.

Founder, Wahayla

Spa director, Carden Park, UK

Lasse Eriksen

Development manager, Farris Bad, Norway

Director of spa, Park Hyatt London River Thames

Lesley Bacon

Spa and wellness director, The Good Spa Guide

Accounts manager Julie Jones accounts@spapublishing.com Media sales Zoe Williamson zoe.williamson@spapublishing.com

Nerys Chell

Managing director, Eden Hall, UK

Spa Publishing Ltd Registered in England. Company No. 6293825

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Give your clients an exceptional experience.

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Science with Soul

Contents I SS U E 101 | AU T U M N 2026

ON THE COVER 107 As Six Senses unveils its new retreat series, Way of a Woman, we discover how it blends modern science with ancient wisdom to encourage realignment of the female nervous system and emotional equilibrium

16 HUBERTUS MOUNTAIN

REFUGIO ALLGÄU, GERMANY

Join us high in the Allgäu Alps, where this family-run hotel’s Mountain Spring Spa offers seasonal wellness centred around human biorhythms

98 KAMALAYA WELLNESS SANCTUARY, THAILAND

We visit the globally renowned destination to explore its award-winning approach to holistic, integrated wellness with a focus on longevity and transformation

70 SPA SPOTLIGHT FIVE OF THE BEST SPAS FOR AUTUMN

• Sakura Spa at Gisborough Hall, UK

BUSINESS INSIGHT

• Nature & Sky Spa at Hotel Lürzerhof, Austria

26 ‘BE REAL BEFORE BEING RADICAL’

• Spa Airelles Palladio by Guerlain, Venice, Italy

Anna Bjurstam, founder of Wahayla, cuts through the complexities of modern spa topics to emphasise the importance of getting the fundamentals right

32 FESTIVE RETAILING The festive period remains a vital source of revenue for the spa market. We present our selection of 19 of the best festive gift collections with advice on retailing from leading brands

52 EUROPEAN SPA’S 100TH EDITION CELEBRATION EVENT We report from Park Hyatt London River Thames, where more than 100 industry leaders gathered in July to mark the centenary edition of our magazine

• Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca, Spain

• ORA Longevity at Hôtel Barrière Le Royal, France

64 HOW TO MEET GUESTS’ GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Louise Molloy, director of spa at Park Hyatt London River Thames, explores how spa businesses can respond to the ever-evolving wellness landscape

82 THE BIG QUESTION: DO ALCOHOL AND SPAS REALLY MIX? We explore this important topic with four leading industry experts to find out how to responsibly serve alcohol in a spa setting

www.europeanspamagazine.com

25 years of Better-BEING.

LIFE TIES ENABLERS SINCE 1976. A TIE CRAFTED IN OUR SPAS SINCE 2001.

Contact: spa.info@loccitane.com spa.info@loccitane.com spa.info@loccitane.com

Contents I SS U E 101 | AU T U M N 2026

BRANDS TO WATCH

117

88 24 ELEMIS: THE EVOLUTION OF BEAUTY

88 ESPA: A SANCTUARY FOR CONNECTION

SPA SPECIFIER

CEO and co-founder Noella Gabriel discusses innovations in luxury beauty and describes why the future of successful spa partnerships goes far beyond products

The iconic spa brand has brought its curated collection of holistic, personalised wellness treatments to the stunning landscapes of Palawan in the Philippines

91 ON THE MENU

30 JOURNEY: THE FUTURE OF SPA MANAGEMENT

The software provider’s founder and CEO, Simon Bullingham, describes how its next-generation spa, wellness and leisure experience management system is built on 30 years of expertise

50 SEABODY: SKINCARE SCIENCE FROM THE SEA

We talk to Seabody founder Dr Helena McMahon about the brand’s new body collection and how it was inspired by the effects of its renowned spa treatments

62 INLIGHT BEAUTY:

THE CONSCIOUS CHOICE

Pete Simmons, spa development lead and sales manager, discusses why Inlight Beauty’s certified organic skincare is a perfect choice for spa operators

32 FESTIVE GIFTING

Among our round-up of the best new products and treatments is Pigment Therapy from Germaine de Capuccini. We also share the unique offerings of brand-to-watch Legology and select six of the best eye treatments to look out for

107 WELLNESS TRENDS Tuning into the world of wellness, we find out about the Way of a Woman retreat series from Six Senses. As well as taking a deep dive into the trend for soundbathing we report on immersive programming on both land and sea

117 SPA STYLE Our showcase of the most innovative new equipment and leading-edge technologies discovers how the Bon Charge Method utilises the brand’s red light and PEMF products. We also showcase thermal solutions from Sauna360 and an Italian snow feature from TechnoAlpin Indoor

European Spa magazine is published by Spa Publishing Ltd. The Publisher has taken all reasonable measures to ensure the information detailed in European Spa magazine is correct at the time of publishing, and while every care is taken to avoid inaccuracies the Publisher does not accept responsibility for any errors or omissions from any information within this digital edition. Views expressed in European Spa are not necessarily those of the Publisher or Spa Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved, reproduction in whole or part without the Publisher’s permission is strictly prohibited. © Spa Publishing Ltd 2026

www.europeanspamagazine.com

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Experience the ANAPLASIS Miracle Skin Renewal Face Treatment at partner spas including NOŪS SPA

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ANTHOLOGY OF ATHENS

Spa Spotlight Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany

A sense of the seasons High up in Germany’s Allgäu Alps, the family-run Mountain Spring Spa at Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu offers seasonal wellness centred around human biorhythms

R E P O R T BY W E N DY G O L L E D G E

any spas talk about being rooted in a sense of place, but few can claim to be as centred on their traditions, history and precise locale as Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu. Turning 75 this year, the hotel and spa is in the tiny village of Balderschwang, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Germany’s Allgäu Alps, at an altitude of 1,044m. Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu has been in the Traubel family for three generations, since 1951. Beginning life as a small mountain inn, it has been passed down from father to son to grandson, and is now owned by Karl and Marc Traubel. A distinctly different resort in summer and winter, the hotel’s Mountain Spring Spa fully embraces the elemental contrasts that characterise Balderschwang. A vast thermal area is juxtaposed by a natural cold bathing lake, there’s an outdoor infinity pool with panoramic mountain views, four saunas, a micro-salt room, infrared rooms and a cool Alpine Zen Garden with hot Japanese onsen. A fresh outlook With every experience accompanied by the gentle sound of cowbells and the regular chiming of the village clock, and views of the Allgäu Alps from almost every window, it’s a spa that doesn’t just know its heritage, but embraces it at every turn. Fully renovated in 2021 following a devastating avalanche in 2019 that all but destroyed the existing spa, the 4,500sqm wellness area now spans www.europeanspamagazine.com

“Almost everyone who comes here comes specifically for wellness. Our priority is human contact, between our therapists and every guest.” Marc Traubel Co-owner, Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu

three floors and boasts an indoor-outdoor infinity pool, floating and bio cold pools. In the thermal zone, a large Finnish sauna offers views of Balderschwang village and hosts aufguss ceremonies daily. There are also aroma and infrared saunas, steam rooms and Kneipp foot baths. Relaxation rooms across three levels each offer village or mountain views and ready opportunities to truly surrender to the moment. The HolisticLife concept “The spa’s motto is ‘Raufkommen. Zum Runterkommen’, which translates as ‘Come up. To come down’,” explains spa manager Hannes Hörlin, who began his career at Hubertus as an intern. The Hubertus ethos is guided by its HolisticLife concept, which is divided into four areas: Touch, Spirit, Food and Sleep. “Our HolisticLife philosophy is oriented towards the seasons and human bio-rhythms, health awareness, self-mindfulness and a connection to nature, all designed to awaken new life energy,” Hörlin explains. “Every guest is seen and treated as they are, with everything they bring with them – mind, body and soul – without expectation or judgment.” “HolisticLife is the search for meaning in life,” he adds. “The concept is structured around the Celtic Clockwise from above: Sabrina and Marc Traubel with the next generation of the Hubertus family; mountain views from the outdoor bio pool; a swim-out pool allows complete immersion in the spa’s surroundings

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Sustainability is a priority From ventilation to transport, every aspect is shaped to be kind to the environment

wheel-of-the-year festivals; it’s about helping our guest discover what touches them and how they can, in turn, touch others. We go beyond simple downtime to deliver wellness that genuinely has an effect, with results-oriented treatments and mindfully composed programmes to bring body and mind back into balance.” Moments of stillness In 12 treatment rooms, all body rituals and facials use fresh spring water from the hotel’s own water source. There’s a strong focus on Ayurveda because, says Hörlin, today’s guests want, and need, more. A nice massage is no longer enough; guests want to be really seen,” he explains. “Ayurvedic practice is the art of touching the soul; it’s the path to our roots. Our Ayurveda treatments help guests heal and guide their mind to that moment of stillness where they get their inner power and strength back. “Touch is central to our Ayurvedic programming. In our society, physical distance between people is often so large, touch can feel strange. Our holistic massages are designed to touch not just the body but the heart.” Every guest has a treatment included per stay as standard. As a result, the spa is now a critical driver www.europeanspamagazine.com

Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu is operated according to a keen sense of environmental accountability. Even the smallest details are placed under a spotlight to assess if they can be ecologically streamlined. “Running a hotel like this, you can’t ever claim to be fully sustainable, but we do all we can to reduce our impact,” says Marc Traubel. “Simple things add up, so ventilation switches off automatically at 10pm, rather than running all night. We have a combined heat-and-power unit and a wood-pellet heating system, so we no longer use heating oil. A small solar installation covers around 10 per cent of our energy needs. We also recover heat from the air we extract, before it’s released outside, and have our own natural spring, which we use to supply the pool area. “Significantly, 70 per cent of our staff live within two kilometres of the hotel, so most can walk to work. Also, we’re working with a company on a machine that converts our food waste into soil. We generate roughly ten crates of kitchen waste a week; the machine converts it into usable soil within 16 hours, which can then be used for the garden or given away, rather than the food simply going to landfill.” of hotel occupancy. “Almost everyone who comes here comes specifically for wellness,” says CEO and co-owner, Marc Traubel. “Wellness was already the main driver before the rebuild, but expanding the spa has reinforced it. Our priority is human contact, between our therapists and every guest, followed by genuine relaxation. Our relaxation rooms are near silent spaces to process a treatment and switch off.” The hotel’s room occupancy sits at around 80 per cent, with more than half of guests being 19

Spa Spotlight Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany

repeat visitors and key markets including Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Mountain movement The light-flooded yoga and meditation studio, SeeBlick, is complemented by an outdoor yoga platform, next to the natural bathing lake, and the modern Mountain Move fitness lounge. “The Allgäu mountains are our largest fitness centre, right on our doorstep,” says Traubel. “But for when the weather isn’t on our side, Mountain Move is a space that allows our guests to experience natural and functional training, to move better today and in everyday life in the future.” The 66-room hotel is intimate, with a design philosophy focused on bringing the outside in. Clockwise from above: preparing for an aufguss ceremony in the large Finnish sauna; the SeeBlick yoga and meditation studio; Ayurvedic therapies are offered in 12 treatment rooms to help guests heal

Wood dominates, with the interior characterised by larch, silver fir and oak, while spruce is used as the main building material for the wellness area. Handcrafted solid wood furniture features strongly, complimenting the calm, muted colour scheme, with an abundance of soft furs and drapes. The overall effect is like relaxing in a luxurious indoor forest. The Mountain Nest, which comprises 46 rooms, has been completely renovated in the last year using upcycled materials. “We have, for example, made tables from the wall of our old sauna,” says Traubel. “You’ll find things like that throughout the hotel: recycled and reused pieces that honour our past, always with an eye on the future.” Immersive wellness Keen to keep the spa growing to meet demand, Traubel has plans to create a new building, offering something unique. “I want to build somewhere people visit and feel: ‘this is my place; I want to be here’. Something they won’t find elsewhere,” he www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany

Retreating for change Mountain Spring Coaching retreats at Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu offer guests a shift in perspective, with a special focus on women, says spa manager Hannes Hörlin Tell us about the coaching retreats offered at the spa In daily life it’s hard to break habits or make changes. We realised there was demand for a space to step back; somewhere guests have the time, energy and mindset to start a change. Coaching is the extra element that helps them move life toward the version they want and take that transformation home with them. What makes the Courage to Change Hannes Hörlin retreat unique? Courage to Change is a reinvention retreat for women. By travelling to Hubertus, guests distance themselves from their everyday lives; that creates the space to pause. Movement helps dissolve stuck

www.europeanspamagazine.com

patterns and our coach, Uta Waldhausen, guides guests to turn their gaze inwards, to gain new perspectives or find purpose again. It’s a balance, because this is still a holiday – guests decide how deep they want to go. Some make life changes to find purpose again, for others it’s about building a more meditative routine. What makes a truly effective retreat? Good solutions emerge with distance and with time, which is what we offer. But trust and communication are also essential. If guests don’t know the coach or what to expect, there’s insecurity before they commit. Our guest reviews are helping build momentum. Sometimes all it takes is a safe space to listen to your inner voice and a clear nudge to realign yourself.

Spa Spotlight Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu, Germany Right from top: natural materials dominate the interior of the spa and fitness studios; Ayurvedic principles are inspiring treatment development

explains. “Our current thinking is a pre-bookable, dome-style, 3D immersive cinema space, with one of the best sound and visual systems around, creating moments of relaxation where guests get goosebumps – a fully immersive, uninterrupted experience. We are currently looking for partners and construction is expected to start early next year.” In the dining area, Traubel plans to craft a new menu around Ayurvedic principles, extending that holistic philosophy from the spa. “At the moment there’s a gap between the spa and the hotel. The spa is a genuinely intimate setting, but it’s hard to carry that philosophy through into the hotel and restaurant consistently. The plan is to build toward an Ayurvedic buffet-style restaurant, which could also support more comprehensive retreat packages. “We’re a family-owned hotel hosting multi-generational groups, with parents, children and grandparents. For me, I want to be able to ask a guest what they did today and them reply: ‘Oh, nothing!’. That’s perfect; it’s what Hubertus is here to allow people to do.”

INSIDE THE PROJECT Hubertus Mountain Refugio Allgäu www.hotel-hubertus.de n Owners Karl and Marc Traubel n CEOs Karl and Marc Traubel n Spa manager Hannes Hörlin n Spa team 30 n Spa team 4,500sqm n Treatment rooms Ten and one couples’ room

DES IG N & CON S ULTAN CY Architects Beer Bembé Dellinger Architekten Interiors AHA360°

PRO DU C T PARTNER S Dr Dr Stein Tveten, Molke (natural cosmetics from the Bregenzerwald), JetPeel, Primavera, Ionto Comed

SPA SU PPLIER S Pools Alois Müller Group, Berndorf Bäderbau Thermal experiences KLAFS Pool loungers IKONO Treatment couches Gharieni, IONTO Uniforms Uniqform from Sonthofen and PURE Workwear Fitness suppliers Concept2, Precor Free Motion, Assault AirRunner, Genesis Fitness, spinning bikes from Spinning, Freemotion Fitness, Blackroll, Five Fitness

www.europeanspamagazine.com

“The Science, Art & Soul of Wellness” Phuket, Thailand | November 10-13, 2026

A GROWING LIST OF FEATURED SPEAKERS

Ronald Akili Desa Potato Head

Christopher Asandra, MD AsandraMD

Anna Bjurstam Wahayla

Bernhard Bohnenberger Discover Collection

Dan Buettner Blue Zones

Diego Carrete First Abu Dhabi Bank

June Cohen Media & Technology Pioneer

Tal Danai ArtLink

Jiří Dvořák, MD, PhD Schulthess Clinic & BDMS Wellness Clinic

Jonathan Emery Aldar Development

Cathy FelicianoChon Finn Partners APAC

George Gaitanos, PhD Chenot

Simone Gibertoni Clinique La Prairie

William E. Heinecke Minor International

Thomas Heatherwick Heatherwick Studios

Huy Hoang Shishi-Iwa House

Neil Jacobs Wild Origins

Jessica Jesse BuDhaGirl®

Kelly Kovack BeautyMatter

Colin Low Patience Lifestyle

Susan Magsamen International Arts + Mind Lab

Andrea Maier, MD, PhD Chi Longevity Clinics

Dave McCaughan BIBLIOSEXUAL

Lyndon Neri Neri&Hu Design and Research Office

Kittisak Pattamasaevi Montara Hospitality Group

Kenneth R. Pelletier, MD, PhD UCSF & American Health Association

Lexie Rodriguez Capella Hotel Group

Deron Triff Project VELUM

Nick Vaus Free The Birds

Lisa Von Tang Lisa Von Tang

To register, visit www.globalwellnesssummit.com globalwellnesssummit.com. Simultaneous translation in over 30 languages will be available during the Summit.

Brands to Watch ELEMIS promotion

The evolution of beauty

Noella Gabriel, CEO and co-founder of ELEMIS, discusses innovations in luxury beauty and describes why the future of successful spa partnerships goes far beyond products

or more than three decades, ELEMIS has been driven by discovery. The British skincare brand has built a philosophy that is powered by nature, enhanced by science and backed by results. This balance also shapes how ELEMIS innovates, through the use of pioneering biotechnology and by sourcing exceptional ingredients. CEO and co-founder, Noella Gabriel believes the brand’s success comes from staying true to that philosophy 24

while continually looking to the future. “Innovation isn’t about chasing what’s next,” she says. “Our product development and innovation teams work on a pipeline that balances our long-term vision with the evolving needs of our consumers. Everything begins with the skin and delivering visible, proven results.” This approach is rooted in ELEMIS’ unique spa heritage. Born in the treatment room, the brand has spent decades working directly with people’s skin and that hands-on expertise

continues to inform everything from product development to its professional treatments. A journey of discovery The luxury beauty customer is evolving to become more knowledgeable and discerning, seeking proven efficacy while placing equal value on personalisation, expertise and how an experience makes them feel. “Luxury today is about more than efficacy,” says Gabriel. “It’s about sensoriality, expertise and

Brands to Watch ELEMIS promotion Clockwise from left: ELEMIS Pro-Collagen Future Restore Eye Serum; the brand’s products are powered by natural ingredients and backed by science; a sensorial ELEMIS spa treatment

“Luxury today is about more than efficacy. It’s about sensoriality, expertise and personalisation.” Noella Gabriel CEO and co-founder, ELEMIS

personalisation. Consumers want to better understand their skin and discover what will deliver visible, feel-good results, but they also want an experience that creates a genuine moment of wellbeing.” Increasingly, this is leading to a conversation around skin longevity, caring for the skin today with its future in mind. This thinking is reflected in Pro-Collagen Future Restore Eye Serum, the latest innovation within the Pro-Collagen range, bringing advanced www.europeanspamagazine.com

skincare science specifically to the delicate eye area. “Our focus is on high-performance formulas that deliver real results without compromising on the sensorial experience of using them,” says Gabriel. “Texture and ritual matter because skincare should be something you look forward to.” Technology and innovation At the heart of Pro-Collagen Future Restore Eye Serum is ELEMIS’s

proprietary Opal Skin Algae Complex, alongside Lumi Algae and Marine Bacillus Ferment. Together, these advanced marine and biotechnology derived actives target multiple visible eye concerns, with clinical results showing a reduction in the appearance of eye wrinkles in four days and an improvement in the appearance of three types of dark circles in seven days, according to 2025 independent clinical trial. It reflects ELEMIS’ continued investment in biotechnology, using advances in science to explore the potential of marine ingredients and create targeted solutions for evolving skincare needs. “For us, the future of skincare lies in continuing to explore what’s possible when nature and science work together,” says Gabriel. “Biotechnology allows us to unlock the potential of natural ingredients in new and exciting ways, while staying focused on what matters most – creating high-performance skincare that delivers results you can see and feel.” BE INFORMED... To find out more about what ELEMIS can add to your spa business, visit: www.elemis.com

Business Insight Anna Bjurstam, Wahayla

“Be real before being radical” Longevity, biohacking and AI personalisation may dominate the wellness conversation, but Anna Bjurstam believes the smartest way forward is surprisingly simple: focus first on the fundamentals

y career in this industry we call wellness started in the Eighties, teaching aerobics, when my father was quietly convinced I’d thrown away a perfectly good finance degree. Four decades later, wellness is the topic every boardroom wants to discuss, but the gap between the concepts we talk about and what actually happens in the treatment room has never been wider. We reference cellular optimisation, longevity diagnostics, AI personalisation, hyperbaric oxygen and all the latest biohacking technology. I find much of it genuinely fascinating – and I am an enthusiastic user of some of it myself – but meanwhile, many operators are quietly asking a more sensible question: what, of all this, can we actually do? My answer, I’m afraid, is not terribly sexy. Going back to basics Sleep, movement, nutrition, mental and emotional wellbeing, nature, connection… we call them ‘the basics’, which makes them sound easy. They aren’t. Done properly, they are demanding operational disciplines and surprisingly few properties do them exceptionally well. Take sleep. A pillow menu is not a sleep strategy. You can introduce sleep tracking and the latest recovery technology, but first you should walk into your guest rooms at 10pm. Are they genuinely dark? Quiet? Cool? What lighting is the guest exposed to? What did they eat at dinner? Can your 26

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Business Insight Anna Bjurstam, Wahayla

Above: a successful spa ecosystem relies on the effective combination of tradition and technology, such as hyperbaric chambers

team explain why any of this matters? During my years at Six Senses, we built sleep programming in from the ground up, working with sleep doctors to consider everything from beds and bedding to lighting and the room environment. The important part wasn’t any single amenity, it was joining the dots. The same applies elsewhere in wellness. Movement isn’t about the number of high-tech machines in your gym. Nutrition isn’t the virtuous page on your menu that everybody politely ignores. And mental wellbeing isn’t ensured by adding a meditation class at 8am. The execution of a well-formed strategy is where wellness grows.

The wellness progression I would encourage operators to think of wellness as a progression: Amenity → Menu → Programme → Ecosystem. Amenities are saunas, treatment rooms and perhaps the word wellness appearing enthusiastically on the website. Menu includes genuine services, but they are largely in isolation. At the Programme stage, assessments, personalisation, outcomes and follow-ups begin connecting those services. Finally, at Ecosystem level, wellbeing runs through the entire property, from bedrooms, food and movement to spa, nature, social connection and even how staff interact with guests. There is nothing wrong with being at an earlier stage. The mistake is believing you’re at stage four when you’re actually at stage two, wearing very good activewear.

“I still believe rigorous science and soulful hospitality belong together. The clever part is knowing when each is needed” Anna Bjurstam Founder, Wahayla

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ANNA BJURSTAM EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Anna Bjurstam has spent more than 30 years shaping the modern wellness industry. From 2013 until 2026, as Wellness Pioneer at Six Senses, she led the work that established the brand as a global leader in wellness, spearheading the development of Six Senses Place. Previously, she grew Raison d’Être into the consultancy behind more than 200 spas in 70 countries. She is co-founder of RoseBar Longevity and V London Social Club (now AgebackCo) and has served on the Global Wellness Summit board since 2007. Anna’s new company, Wahayla, advises hospitality, fitness and medical brands on what comes next in wellness and longevity, bringing together her three defining career threads – science, spirituality and business. www.wahayla.com

Business Insight Anna Bjurstam, Wahayla Right: movement offerings should be intelligently programmed to include follow-ups and personalised guidance

Putting tech in the right place The first exercise I’d suggest to any spa operator costs nothing: locate yourself honestly. I love innovation; I’ve worked with biohacking and longevity for years, so this certainly isn’t an argument for returning to herbal tea and hoping for the best. But the machines are the easy part. A hyperbaric chamber, cryotherapy unit or red-light bed installed without assessment protocols, trained practitioners and a clear connection to the guest journey is essentially a very expensive piece of interior design. Before investing in anything, I would ask four questions: n W hat are the outcomes we are trying to achieve? n H ow will we assess whether our strategy has worked? n W ho is properly trained to deliver it? n H ow does it connect with everything else we do? If the answers are vague, don’t buy the machines yet. Spend the money on your people and your foundations. The machine will still be there next year. Probably with a newer model.

Five foundations to fix before buying new tech You can make a surprisingly significant difference without a large capital budget. What you do need is attention to detail. 1. Sleep in the room Experience your own rooms at night. Check darkness, temperature, noise and lighting before investing in any sleep technologies. 2. Programme movement, don’t just equip for it One excellent coach with intelligent programming and follow-ups can deliver more value than a gym full of machines nobody quite knows how to use. 3. Invite the chef to contribute to your wellness meetings Think energy at breakfast, recovery

after movement and sleep at dinner. Nutrition is too important to live separately from the spa. 4. Protect peace and quiet Create screen-free spaces, calming arrival rituals and moments when guests are not being stimulated, sold to or notified. 5. Invest in people A brilliant practitioner who listens, understands and connects the dots is still one of the most sophisticated pieces of wellness technology available to a spa operator.

I learned something important about sequencing when developing RoseBar Longevity at Six Senses Ibiza. We moved early into longevity and created something genuinely pioneering, but we also learned that being ahead of the market isn’t enough. You have to bring people with you. We led with depth before simplifying the story to meet guests where they were, which taught me that foundations first isn’t just an operational principle, it’s a communication principle. You don’t need to show somebody the entire wellness universe on day one. Help them sleep better. Help them understand their body. Give them www.europeanspamagazine.com

Business Insight Anna Bjurstam, Wahayla Left: the suitability of your guest rooms – are they dark and quiet enough? – should be assessed first-hand as part of a sleep strategy

Passing the shiny-toy test Before approving the purchase of the newest, most exciting machine, ask yourself four questions: What outcome do you want? Longevity is a category, not an outcome. Be specific about what you’re trying to improve. How will we assess it? Decide how you’ll understand progress before buying the technology, not afterwards. something that feels good and makes sense. Earn their trust and only then invite them to go deeper. Don’t outsource your body to an app There is another paradox emerging in wellness. We have become extraordinarily good at measuring ourselves while sometimes becoming less good at feeling ourselves. Wearables can give us wonderful insights into sleep, heart rate variation, glucose, recovery and movement, but they should increase awareness, not dependence. If your ring announces that you slept terribly but you wake up feeling fantastic, I’d at least give your body a vote. Technology should ultimately help us reconnect with our biology, not persuade us to stop listening to it. And this is where I think the future becomes really interesting. Wellness will undoubtedly become more sophisticated, more personalised and more technological. At the same time, I believe it will become more human. People are overstimulated and increasingly disconnected; they don’t always need another app telling them how they’re performing. Sometimes they need nature, touch, laughter, community, silence and somebody who genuinely listens. Those things are difficult to put on a specification sheet. They are also remarkably difficult for a competitor to www.europeanspamagazine.com

copy. After more than 30 years in this industry, I still believe rigorous science and soulful hospitality belong together. The clever part is knowing when each is needed. So I don’t think the future belongs to the properties with the most technology, it belongs to those that understand the order. Build the foundations, train the people, earn the trust – and then innovate. Real is not the opposite of radical. Done properly, real is what gives you permission to become radical. www.wahayla.com

Who runs it? Identify your trained team – plural – because people leave. Equipment without expertise is an amenity, not a programme. How does it connect? Where does it sit within assessment, nutrition, movement, treatment, recovery and follow-up? If you can’t answer all four clearly, wait. Sometimes the smartest wellness investment isn’t the shiny machine you discovered at a trade show. Sometimes it’s fixing the blackout curtains and making dinner a little earlier. Less exciting on Instagram, perhaps. Much more useful in real life.

Brands to Watch Journey promotion

The future of spa management Journey’s founder and CEO, Simon Bullingham, describes how its next-generation spa, wellness and leisure experience management system is built on 30 years of expertise

ourney acquired Premier Software in 2023 and has now delivered a next-generation replacement for its Premier Core platform. Journey Experience Management System (EMS) is the product of more than three decades of hospitality expertise. We ask CEO Simon Bullingham what it means for spa operators. Why does spa management need to evolve into experience management? Spas has moved beyond simply selling treatments. Today, operators can also be managing memberships, wellness

“We want to give spas the same commercial focus traditionally given to rooms.” Simon Bullingham Founder and CEO, Journey 30

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Brands to Watch Journey promotion

classes, leisure facilities and other bookable experiences, often across different systems and processes. If operators can see their inventories clearly, manage them effectively and make booking easier, they can improve the guest experience while getting more value from their facilities. How has Journey’s acquisition of Premier Software shaped EMS? We wanted to take Premier’s knowledge forward, rather than update a legacy product. EMS is the result. Thanks to our structured migration programme, EMS is already supporting spas in their day-to-day operations. How does EMS benefit a spa director? A centralised, real-time diary gives

teams visibility on staff, treatment rooms and facilities alongside bookings, guest arrivals, billing, memberships, retail, stock and reporting. That clearer operational picture helps spa leaders identify capacity, gaps and opportunities to improve performance. Where do memberships fit in? Bringing memberships into the same space as treatments and facilities means EMS can automate renewals

Images: Journey EMS is a next-generation platform that aims to improve the guest experience while allowing spa operators to more effectively manage inventory

and payments, while giving operators greater control over membership benefits and access rules. It also gives members control of bookings, personal details and payment methods through a mobile-friendly portal. Does EMS fit with other technologies? EMS integrates with property management systems including Oracle OPERA, Mews and Guestline, while working alongside Journey’s booking engine and gift voucher technology. Payments are handled by Journey Pay. A virtual terminal supports remote payments, while mobile PDQ connectivity allows staff to take card payments around the property. The tablet-friendly ePOS also means teams can process retail purchases or add items to a guest’s tab directly from the treatment room. BE INFORMED...

To find out how Journey EMS can benefit your spa business, visit: https://journey.travel

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European Spa presents 19 of the best festive retail collections to entice spa guests and boost your seasonal revenue E D I T E D BY M A R K S M I T H

he festive period remains a vital source of revenue for spas, as it’s a time of celebration and an opportunity for guests and members to purchase gifts for loved ones. With the right training, backed up by a tailored selection of gifts, your therapy team is ideally placed to offer expert advice and provide much needed revenue to boost your bottom line. Creating the right buzz at the right time is crucial and curated events can help with this if you work closely with partner brands. Despite the pressures of the cost of living, Mintel reports that UK Christmas gift spending rose from £357 (€415) to £374 per person in 2025, an increase of around 4.8 per cent. Demonstrating the power of beauty retail, in 2025 John Lewis reported its beauty advent calendar was the fastest-selling item across the entire store at launch, excluding Apple products. Shopping habits have changed; for example, according to Mintel, 72 per cent of UK shoppers bought Christmas gifts during Black Friday promotions in 2025. This is not to endorse the fever pitch of promotions during this week, but to exemplify that marketing communications and sales plans need to reflect evolving consumer demands. Beauty gifts remain a popular choice for the gifting period, so enjoy our selection of 19 of the best festive collections for 2026, with expert retail advice from leading brands.

“A well-executed event can bring holiday collections in retail to life, creating memorable moments that drive discovery and engagement. Strong storytelling, education and opportunities for product trial through treatments, alongside seamless execution, are key to success.” Victoria Elsey Senior head of UK spa and salon, Elemis

Elemis curates seasonal favourites for skin and body Elemis is celebrating the power of touch with thoughtfully curated gifts for Christmas and beyond. Its holiday collection is inspired by the people, rituals and connections that make this time of year so special. Expect gift sets to suit every need and want, from award-winning duos for a more radiant-looking complexion to Pro-Collagen moisturising heroes and bestselling formulas, all delivering nourishing textures and powerful, visible results. The brand’s iconic Cleansing Balm comes in a trio of scents and men’s grooming is also covered, with vibrant red and green packaging evoking the spirit of the season. www.elemis.com

ESPA wraps up wellbeing gifts for all Rooted in the belief that the most meaningful gifts inspire lasting wellbeing, Share the Secret of ESPA celebrates the transformative rituals that have long been a focal point of the spa experience. Each of the 13 limited-edition gift sets have been designed to bring spa results into the home. The Moments of Wellness Advent Calendar conceals 25 individual products, while a wide choice of skin and body care, aromatherapy gifts and luxury candles are available to suit every taste. Share the Secret of ESPA launches the brand’s new Spa Treatment Series with products to recreate hero spa treatments at home. www.espaskincare.com

“Don’t merchandise by category, merchandise by the journey the guest lives. If your seasonal treatments are built around calm, let the retail table at check-out echo that same calm – candlelight, texture, a hand cream they can actually smell and touch.” Danny Golby Managing director, ESPA International 34

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Inspired by its estate home, Wildsmith embraces wintertime The Cordovan Collection is a seasonal edit of hand and body care and home fragrance favourites from Wildsmith. It is presented in a deep brown shade inspired by finely crafted Cordovan leather and the winter bark of the Wildsmith Arboretum at Heckfield Estate, Hampshire. Wrapped in tactile matte paper, each gift reflects the depth and character of Cordovan leather, creating a connection to craftsmanship and the natural world. The collection unites seven Wildsmith favourites with body butters, bath salts and pillow mists, each chosen to inspire moments of care, restoration and stillness throughout the season. New for 2026 is Hand & Body Magnolia and Cedarwood & Rose Duo. www.wildsmithskin.com

“Festive collections allow guests to share the feeling of wellbeing they experienced at the spa, extending moments of restoration, care and connection to the people they love, long after their visit.” Katherine Pye CEO, Wildsmith Skin

Image Skincare shines on with results-driven sets for skin health With an array of clinically proven ingredients, Image Skincare’s festive range includes Confidence is the Gift, which helps to reveal smoother texture, brighter tone and visibly healthier-looking skin. Daily Essentials combines a trio of vitamin C and SPF iconic products. Double Masque Routine presents a resurfacing and hydrating ritual with an age-defying, brightening mask duo. Balanced & Bright Duo unites a purifying cleanse and brightening serum ritual. Hydrate & Plump Duo gifts a nourishing eye and lip treatment for the hard-to-treat areas. www.imageskincare.co.uk

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Dermalogica welcomes the holiday season with hero gift sets With curated sets offering spa clients professional skincare expertise, Dermalogica’s festive offering begins with the Advent calendar, curated to build routine and results with 24 of the brand’s iconic products. The Ultimate Expertise Set offers prepping and protecting favourites for glowing skin, while Expert Lift takes products from the Phyto Nature range to lift, firm and revitalise. The Body Reset features a high-performance body duo, Daily Microfoliant smooths and brightens skin daily, while Dynamic Skin Sculptor visibly firms and lifts the complexion. Other seasonal sets work to support barrier repair and boost and enhance skin glow, including one for ‘on-the-glow’ skincare support. www.dermalogica.co.uk

Germaine de Capuccini redefines Christmas gifting with high-tech skincare Germaine de Capuccini’s 2026 gift sets feature a classic off-white box with the logo finished in gold foil stamping with a subtle bronze tint and star design. The seasonal collection offers some of the brand’s most popular ranges of professional skincare to be used at home. Combining sensoriality and science, expect visible results from this high-tech offering. Each set features a duo of products from Timexpert Hydraluronic for hydration to Timexpert Radiance C+ for luminosity, Timexpert Wrink-Less to boost suppleness, Timexpert Skinreset for energised skin, Timexpert SRNS for mature skin and Timexpert Lift_IN for firmness. www.germainedecapuccini.com

“For visibility, drive attention through festive displays, social content and targeted CRM. Link to services by pairing gifts with treatments, experiences and vouchers.” Robert Stout UK country manager, Germaine de Capuccini

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Ariadne Athens offers a sensory body gift for luminous skin The Ariadne Athens Délos Gift Set is an olfactory and sensory homage to one of the most revered points in the Greek Mediterranean. Délos Eau de Parfum opens with a burst of mandarin and the softness of violet. The heart offers floral tuberose, geranium and blackcurrant, before settling into a deep, enduring base of iris, amber and white musk. Using the same fragrance, Délos Shimmering Body Oil extends luminosity to the skin. The lightweight and fast-absorbing oil nourishes and softens while leaving a veil of delicate shimmer. www.ariadne-athens.com

Ground encourages clients to gift with intention This festive season, Ground has curated a beautiful set of purposeful sets for loved ones. Each box in the 2026 Christmas collection has been created to support the rhythms of daily life, offering moments of stillness, care and renewal. The gifts are handmade in Ireland using 100 per cent natural, vegan and cruelty-free ingredients. New for Christmas 2026 are Ground’s first home fragrance candles and room sprays, as well as the Home Hearth Collection and a Lip New Rescue duo. For youngsters, Storytime Massage pairs Ground Comfort Balm with an original story massage book. The new rituals sit alongside returning favourites including Deep Sleep, the Sleep Ritual and Grá Mná. www.groundwellbeing.com

“There’s a real joy in beautiful gift packaging, but we also need to think beyond the moment it’s opened. It can feel special and visually appealing, while still being made from recyclable materials.” Peigin Crowley Founder, Ground Wellbeing

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THE SPA BRAND B U I LT O N A LOVE FOR THE CRAFT

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Gaia Skincare creates irresistible organic and vegan gifts Natural skincare and spa brand Gaia Skincare presents a 2026 Christmas collection of handmade, organic and vegan skincare and home gifts. Combining pure essential oils, plant actives and spa-inspired rituals, the collection features beautifully curated gift sets and standalone treats to bring moments of relaxation, wellbeing and natural beauty to the festive season. Expect gifts to include Soothing Bath Set, Mini Facial Range, Body Wash Christmas Cracker and Home Gift Set with aromatherapy to scent the house. Uplifting aroma candles come in Awakening, Balancing or Calming blends. www.gaiaskincare.com

TempleSpa makes moments to move you at Christmas Curated for skin, body and soul, each TempleSpa gift combines high-performance, science-led formulas with the brand’s sensorial experiences. Luxurious textures, uplifting aromas and indulgent rituals combine to help reset, relax and glow. With gifts for radiant skin, indulgent bathing, everyday self-care and mood-boosting home comforts, the collection celebrates the moments that move us. Gifting includes the Truffle and Glow ranges as well as two new launches, Truffle Soufflé, and In the Beginning neroli deep-cleaning melt. A new Seasons of Change candle brings light and warmth to the winter months. www.templespa.com

“Seasonal point-of-sale material is vital to drive sales. Make sure the message is clear and concise with a warm invitation to purchase. Everyone loves gifting made easy, and it’s often a self-purchase that happens in the spa.” Sarah Ronchetti Vice-president, global head of spa, TempleSpa

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An invitation for the senses - to flourish into a new year Discover the full festive gifting collection - spanewbusiness@arometherapyassociates.com spanewbusiness@aromatherapyassociates.com

Set off for an Australian-inspired Christmas with Jurlique Inspired by an evening at its Adelaide Hills farm, Jurlique’s gift packaging captures the festive colours of nature in full bloom Down Under, with vivid hues on a midnight blue backdrop and metallic gold stars that capture the vibrant sky. Its 2026 collection is set in beautifully designed, reusable boxes and hanging ornaments. It features everyday rituals for skincare, hand and body care that focus on three scents of rose, citrus and lavender. Skin-ritual sets contain iconic products while collections for hands and body feature best-sellers to cleanse, hydrate and refresh. www.jurlique.co.uk

ishga proudly shows its colours to celebrate its Scottish heritage ishga is showcasing the brand’s special tartan to connect provenance, heritage and festive gifting in a distinct way. Designed as a subtle nod to the brand’s Hebridean origins, the pattern features throughout the collection’s smart packaging. The 2026 Christmas range introduces five new cracker sets, filled with mini hero products that are perfect for stocking fillers and festive treats. Two new curated gift sets for face and body are joined by returning favourites such as a limitededition version of the bestselling Discovery Set, the 12 Days of ishga Beauty Calendar and a limited-edition Sonas Candle. www.ishga.com

“Having worked in spas, I know the frustration of excess Christmas stock. Brands should offer flexible, purposeful gifting, aligned with wider strategy, avoiding seasonal-only products and damaging post-Christmas online discounting.” Leon Trayling Co-founder, ishga 42

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Inlight Beauty presents Christmas gifts inspired by sun and lunar cycles Inlight Beauty’s Christmas Collection features four gift sets with designs inspired by celestial elements, drawn from the sun and lunar cycles that guide the brand’s product-making process. Each one aims to capture the magic of the season with botanical skincare grounded in nature and guided by the rhythms of the earth. Two skincare sets are joined by a tailored kit to promote natural sleep, while the bodycare collection boasts the brand’s iconic products. This year’s vegan-friendly, paraben-free Calming Candle has a soothing blend of eucalyptus, geranium, peppermint and cinnamon essential oils. www.inlightbeauty.co.uk

“Encourage additional purchases as a natural extension of the treatment. Keep displays uncluttered to maintain a luxury aesthetic and prevent customer decision fatigue.” Pete Simmons Spa development lead and sales manager, Inlight Beauty

Illuminating the festive period with expertise from Sothys Celebrating 80 years of professional excellence, the Sothys 2026 Advent calendar features a sophisticated book format. Its 24 doors contain a curated selection of products to explore or revisit, including several signature items from the brand’s most popular ranges. December transforms into a genuine beauty ritual marked daily by a new surprise from Sothys for facial care, body care, cosmeceuticals and make-up. To extend the enjoyment, two full-sized products are included, one of which is designated for the December 24 window. The box design features an illuminated exterior shot of the brand’s flagship in Paris on Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. www.sothys.com

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From the heart of Provence, L’Occitane has gifts for everyone L’Occitane en Provence marks half a century of craft with its enchanting holiday season offering. The milestone collection celebrates the brand’s rich history of savoir faire through limited editions inspired by the art of hosting in Haute-Provence. Illustrator Caroline Romain-Desfossés has designed a series of hand-painted patterns across iconic gift boxes, while two advent calendars are a celebration of Provençal heritage packed with hero products. Notes of golden praline, sandalwood and comforting vanilla shine through in the homecare gift set Veillée Pralinée. The collection also boasts other home fragrances, gifts for men, crackers, tree ornaments and skin and body care. www.loccitane.com

Spanish luxury in Natura Bissé’s thoughtful Christmas offering Natura Bissé has crafted an impressive selection of its best-selling and iconic skincare lines for its Christmas 2026 gift collection. Mini luxuries feature Diamond Luminous, C+C Vitamin and Diamond Well-Living body cream and dry oil. The Diamond Extreme Christmas Set contains Cream Rich Texture and eye cream for age defying skincare. The Diamond Cocoon set features Sheer Cream SPF 30 and eye cream for luminous skin. Essential Shock boasts (R)evolution Matrix and its partner face cream to firm and smooth facial contours. www.naturabisse.com

“Christmas gifting is emotional – a spa gift invests in personal wellbeing and is meaningful at every price point, from festive table gifts and treasured product sets to indulgent treatment experiences.” Debbie Codron Merdjan Managing director, Exclusive Beauty

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Flourish in the new year with Aromatherapy Associates This year, each Aromatherapy Associates gift box has hand-drawn gold foil illustrations showcasing the key ingredients within. A colour-matched inner tray also reflects the blend and is revealed through a delicate floral cut-out to create an elevated unboxing experience. The gift assortment features some of the brand’s most-loved products as well as new additions. Expect mini and full-sized bath and shower oils alongside gifts for recovery, sleep and wellbeing. The new Desert Therapy blend also makes its gifting debut. www.aromatherapyassociates.com

“Scent creates atmosphere and can make a Christmas event feel more immersive. Use a festive aroma in reception areas or create a beautiful seasonal wreath using fresh botanicals, herbs and dried citrus.” Holly Mandall Global head of spa, distributors and training

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Comfort Zone marks the joy of light with its seasonal campaign With skincare rituals that deliver radiance as well as moments of comfort and wellbeing, Comfort Zone promises gifts that glow beyond the season. The Iconic Face & Body Edit includes some of its best-selling face and body care products for a complete skincare routine. It is exclusively packaged inside a holiday-themed gift box with skin essentials including Hydramemory Water Source Serum, skin regimen Longevity Collagen+ Serum, Sublime Skin Cream, Renight Cream and Tranquillity Body Lotion. The Timeless Beauty Ritual combines Sublime Skin Intensive Serum, Eye Cream and Cream for plump, lifted and nourished skin. https://uk.comfortzoneskin.com

“Gift-wrapping services are a simple way to enhance the customer experience by increasing perceived value and encouraging impulse purchases. It creates a thoughtful experience that helps spas deliver convenient and memorable gifting opportunities.” Tracy Brasenell UK country manager, Comfort Zone

Seabody looks to home and the Atlantic Ocean for inspiration This Christmas, Seabody celebrates with Coming Home: The Atlantic Collection. Inspired by the Atlantic coast of Co Kerry, where the brand is based, the collection brings together four curated gifting edits spanning skin and body care. From morning skincare and everyday hydration to movement and restorative sleep, each gift unites Seabody’s most-loved formulations to create moments of care and wellbeing at home. Presented in rich burgundy and deep navy packaging, finished with gold foil and subtle wave detailing, expect skincare sets for the morning, day and night plus a specially curated sleep set to promote natural slumber. Finally, the brand’s new Movement products create an energising ritual before and after exercise. www.seabody.com

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Skincare science from the sea We talk to Seabody founder Dr Helena McMahon about the brand’s new body collection and how it was inspired by the effects of its renowned spa treatments

ounded by cellular biochemist Dr Helena McMahon, Irish brand Seabody has added four new high-performance marine biotech bodycare products to its award-winning collection. Seabody’s first dedicated body collection translates the immersive sensory experience of its spa treatments into intentional at-home rituals. Powered by marine bioactives, the targeted products aim to redress the imbalances brought by modern life. “There is a constant demand to override the body’s signals so we can push through fatigue, move faster and stay switched on for longer,” says McMahon. “This collection was created to help people reconnect with those important natural signals.” The products were developed after studying how clients’ bodies responded to the ritual of Seabody’s spa treatments. “We wanted to bring those experiences into the home in a way that supports modern life, not by

changing the body, but by listening to it,” McMahon explains. A quartet of quality Seabody’s restorative Sleep Body Oil and Sleep Body Balm combine to create a calming Sleep Ritual. With ocean-sourced magnesium and

“This collection was created to help people reconnect with the body’s natural signals.” Dr Helena McMahon Founder, Seabody

passionflower seed oil as well as marine actives derived from Atlantic seaweed, Sleep Body Oil envelops the skin in lasting hydration, leaving it feeling smooth. Infused with calming bergamot, jasmine and cedarwood oils, the oil can be layered with Sleep Body Balm, which is enriched with added squalane and avocado oil. Movement Body Oil and Movement Body Balm are united in the Movement Ritual, which aims to prepare, awaken, cool down and reconnect clients. Movement Body Oil’s warming blend includes ocean-sourced magnesium, marine actives and arnica to leave skin smooth and hydrated. Movement Body Balm is infused with menthol, peppermint and eucalyptus oils.

BE INFORMED...

To find out more about Seabody’s spa-inspired body care collection, visit: www.seabody.com

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r u o g n i t a r b e l Ce n o i t i d e h t 100 In July, more than 100 industry leaders and friends of the magazine gathered at Park Hyatt London River Thames to celebrate our centenary edition R EP O R T BY S a ra h C a m i l l e r i P H OTOGR A P H Y Ni g e l C ha p m a n

his summer, my team and I celebrated one of the proudest milestones of my career so far: the 100th edition of European Spa. When I founded the Sarah Camilleri brand in 2007, I set out to create a business magazine that was independent, insightful, beautifully designed and genuinely useful for spa leaders and investors. A magazine and news platform the spa and wellness industry could trust, and that would reflect its intelligence, creativity and heart. Nineteen years on, European Spa’s purpose remains to shine a light on the people behind successful spa businesses. The industry leaders, brand founders, therapists, designers, educators, consultants, investors and innovators who work so hard to create experiences that improve people’s lives. This has always been my ‘why’ and it is also what drives my exceptional team. 52

pages of expert content READ HERE

A milestone shared with many To mark our 100th edition, we hosted an intimate celebration at Park Hyatt London River Thames. In truth, we would have loved to invite a thousand friends, colleagues and contributors to mark our centenary, but the evening was always intended to be intimate. To anyone who was not in the room, please know this milestone belongs to you, too. Our event was created as a personal thank you to a select group of leaders and brands who have supported us and shaped our journey. A very special thank you goes to Sue Harmsworth MBE, founder of the SATCC and Elemis co-founder Noella Gabriel, who shared their leadership journeys with an insight and generosity that continues to inspire so many. As Sue so wisely said at the event: “I’m thrilled we’re talking about health and prevention, and rehab, that’s what the consumer wants. “There are lots of opportunities in new areas we’ve not explored, but we’ve got to get back to putting www.europeanspamagazine.com

European Spa 100th edition celebration event 1

THE WHO’S WHO OF SPA 1. L yudmyla Nagirnyak of Westin London City with Noella Gabriel of Elemis 2. R obbie Leung of Pan Pacific London with Clair Davidson, Strategic connector and growth consultant 3. E uropean Spa’s Wendy Golledge, Mark Smith and Sarah Camilleri 4. Sheila McCann of Enflingo Global Consulting with Earthlite’s Thorsten Lipfert, Gharieni Group’s Sarah Sweed, Kirsty MacCormick of BBSPA Group, wellness entrepreneur Kent Richards and Paula Perkins of Paula Perkins Spa Consultancy

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European Spa 100th edition celebration event training into annual budgets, so our teams are of the quality guests expect. Machines have their place, but nothing beats an amazing hands-on treatment from a well-trained therapist. Fight your corner for that budget and win.” With 35 years’ experience in the industry, Noella said: “This is our moment in time as an industry; every demographic is hungry for touch, which is where our industry stems from. Let’s make sure we stay true to that. We don’t always need to add more; you can do less, but really deliver it with great attention to detail.” My sincere thanks also go to our event sponsors and supporting brands, whose partnership helped us create such a special celebration. Thank you for believing in European Spa and helping us bring this milestone moment to life. Thank you also to all our VIP guests for being part of the celebration. And lastly, to the spa and wellness community: we thank you for reading us, supporting us, challenging us and allowing us to champion this sector and all it has and continues to achieve.

featured brands READ HERE

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European Spa 100th edition celebration event 6

THE WHO’S WHO OF SPA 1. A shley Chung of St Pancras Spa, London with Lauren Wicks from Bulgari Hotel London 2. F our Seasons’ Courtney Cunningham, Verity Marsh and Silvia Ammesso 3. M agdy Abdelaty of Rosewood Hotels and Seabody’s Orla Kenny are joined by Lauren Wicks 4. J ennifer Gorman of JG Associates, Kyode Walker of Hilton London Syon Park, spa consultant Helen Cain and Jila Field of Cemon Homeopathics 5. Bernhard Koopsingraven of Sothys with Wendy Golledge, Temple Spa’s Sarah Ronchetti, Matthew Prosser of Agilysys and Victoria Dello Ioio from Subtle Energies 6. G round Wellbeing’s Peigin Crowley with Sue Harmsworth MBE 7. E uropean Spa’s founder Sarah Camilleri reflects on 19 years of spa industry growth 8. Spa consultant Jenny Jones with Kyode Walker and Aromatherapy Associates’ Holly Mandall

It’s often underestimated, but what makes a spa truly special are its people and brands who constantly strive for excellence. Successful spas are the product of successful partnerships. Sarah Camilleri Founder and editorial director, European Spa

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European Spa 100th edition celebration event Inspiration and discipline Over almost two decades, I have had many lightbulb moments. Some have come from walking into extraordinary spas, others from conversations with leaders across our industry. There have been plenty in the less glamorous parts of publishing, too. Because what looks beautiful and effortless on the page is anything but behind the scenes. Building and sustaining a trusted media brand takes discipline, judgement and commercial understanding. It also requires editorial instinct, creativity, stamina and a deep commitment to the industry we serve. Every edition is built from real, trusted content. What you see on the page is only the tip of a highly polished iceberg. Behind every feature, we go beyond press releases to understand the market and shine a light on the suppliers, specialists and real people whose work is often hidden behind the brand story. It takes months of conversations, travel, research, interviews, writing and editing. Then comes the intensive design process, 2

THE WHO’S WHO OF SPA 1. T he European Spa team with Eike Clausen of event host venue Park Hyatt London River Thames 2. C lair Davidson with Sarah Camilleri and NADair’s Erin Lee 3. ishga’s Leon Trayling with Lesley Bacon of the Good Spa Guide 4. Sue Harmsworth MBE with Danny Golby of ESPA and Wendy Golledge 5. Resilience and Power’s Kay Pennington

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EQUINOX

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FOUR

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MOANA LANI SPA MOANA SURFRIDER HAWAII ·

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™

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HOTEL

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NYC MANDARIN ORIENTAL NEW YORK ·

PARK HYATT AVIARA RESORT CARLSBAD ·

SPA AT GRAND VELAS RIVIERA NAYARIT · ·

CITY

LOMA DE VIDA SPA AT LA CANTERA RESORT

NEW YORK CITY FOUR SEASONS HOTEL ·

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OJAI VALLEY INN

LANAI

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HOUSTON HOTEL EMMA SAN ANTONIO ·

HYATT NEW YORK ·

LANAI

FOUR SEASONS RESORT ORLANDO AT WALT DISNEY WORLD RESORT

BEL-AIR LOS ANGELES · SAN ANTONIO ·

RESORT

THE INN AT LITTLE WASHINGTON ·

JEFFERSON HOTEL RICHMOND THE LANGHAM THE PENINSULA NEW YORK ·

THE LITTLE NELL ASPEN ·

THE THE

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European Spa 100th edition celebration event the proofing, inevitable missing images, last-minute changes and often impossible deadlines. But thanks to teamwork, it always comes together. And when it does, there is still no feeling quite like seeing a finished edition go live, or receiving a note from someone we have featured simply saying thank you.

Heart-led, industry-focused I am very proud that, after 100 editions, European Spa is still here – independent, with integrity and as committed as ever to helping the spa and wellness industry thrive. I continue to lead the brand that a brave former version of me founded with the same passion and care I had at issue one. Today, European Spa is a trusted media platform with a quarterly magazine, daily news, the European Spa Leaders’ Resource yearbook and the European Spa Event. We reach and connect with senior spa, wellness, hotel, brand and investment leaders across the industry. 2

The European Spa team goes way beyond the press releases to really showcase the people and brands working hard behind the scenes to bring spas to life. We research spa suppliers, talk to architects and designers, and interview spa consultants, hotel managers and spa directors, making sure that key figures receive the credit they so richly deserve. Mark Smith Deputy editor, European Spa 3

industry experts READ HERE

THE WHO’S WHO OF SPA 1. Mark Smith addresses the room 2. B arbara Cooke of BC SoftWear with Sparcstudio’s Neil Fairplay and Beverley Bayes 3. Noella Gabriel with Lesley Bacon, Sarah Camilleri and Victoria Elsey of Elemis 4. M ade for Life Organics’ Amanda Winwood with spa consultant Sian Parry Jones

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European Spa 100th edition celebration event European Spa has grown because of the people who have helped shape it with me. Mark Smith, our deputy editor and events lead, has been by my side for 14 years. He has helped to represent the brand, support our partners, shape editorial projects and bring our live events to life. Wendy Golledge, our managing editor, brings sharp editorial instinct, news judgment and industry understanding, helping to keep European Spa relevant, trusted and connected. Behind the scenes, David, Rich, Angela, Julie and Zoe have each brought years of service, talent and loyalty. They have helped every edition, deadline and milestone come together. Last but not least, my husband Don Camilleri, former development director of Center Parcs UK and Ireland, has been my sounding board and test reader from issue one. Why spa leadership matters At European Spa, we will never stop elevating spa leaders; you are the

THE WHO’S WHO OF SPA

backbone of the industry. You set the standards, create the culture and inspire your teams. You make the brave decisions that keep this sector moving forward. Spa and wellness is not standing still. We are talking more seriously about prevention, emotional wellbeing, recovery, personalisation, authenticity, science, nature, connection and community. We are moving beyond the idea of spa as simply a luxury experience, and towards something far more meaningful. The spa industry has huge, untapped potential and is undoubtedly a key hospitality driver in future. That is why this work still matters so much to me. I feel the same way I did when I created issue one: passionate about helping the spa and wellness industry thrive and prosper. To everyone who has been part of the European Spa journey so far, thank you. Here’s to our 100 editions and 100 more, to our thriving industry and to the great opportunities that lie ahead.

1. Alice Lightfoot of Cambridge House, Auberge Collection with Sarah Camilleri, Wildsmith’s Jamie Pagan, spa consultant Tracey Chappell and Kerry Turpin of Corinthia Hotels 2. Where there’s a celebration... there must be cake! 3. Alexander Lazarev of The Bath House – Banya London with Erin Lee 4. Lyudmyla Nagirnyak with Debbie Codron of Exclusive Beauty Ltd 5. Jenny Jones with Hida Shuleta of the Landmark London, Serina Sandhu of TheSolveMD and Wendy Golledge 6. Louise Molloy of Park Hyatt London River Thames with Jessica Scullion of GAIA Skincare and Victoria Dello Ioio

European Spa is available for everyone in the spa industry to read for free. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE

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European Spa 100th edition celebration event

international spas READ HERE 3

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The wellbeing space is diverse and constantly evolving, but one constant is the human stories behind every brand. As we move forward, the European Spa team will continue to share the industry news that matters across our magazine, website, email newsletters and social media channels. We’ll showcase brilliant new spa projects, the leading brands and the latest trends, the personalities shaping progress and the real stories behind the spas. Wendy Golledge Managing editor, European Spa

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Brands to Watch Inlight Beauty promotion

The conscious choice Pete Simmons, Inlight Beauty’s spa development lead and sales manager, discusses why its certified organic skincare is a perfect choice for spa operators

ombining artisan craftsmanship with botanical expertise and supreme quality, Inlight Beauty’s certified organic botanical products are rooted in the principles of slow beauty and Pete Simmons natural harmony. “At the heart of our spa philosophy is light, a symbol of renewal, clarity and radiant wellbeing that inspires every treatment we create,” says Pete Simmons, spa development lead and sales manager. “Our unique production method also incorporates sounds, colours and words of intention to honour the vitality of our ingredients. At the scientific heart of Inlight Beauty’s products is its patented Bio-Lipophilic Matrix technology, which delivers bioavailable plant nutrients that work in harmony to replenish, hydrate, protect and support the skin’s natural renewal. The Trilogy Collection Rooted in intuitive touch and multisensory rituals, the brand’s trio of new experiences invites guests into a state of deep relaxation, balance and inner harmony. The Trilogy Collection offers three distinct journeys, each inspired by the natural elements that shape our world: n Skinlight – a sun-inspired facial to energise and uplift. n Lightline – a moon-influenced back body massage to soothe and release. n Lightflow – a full body massage to ground and reconnect to the earth. 62

“For our spa partners, Inlight Beauty represents a unique combination of uncompromising quality, thoughtful inclusivity and truly memorable guest experiences.” Pete Simmons Spa development lead and sales manager, Inlight Beauty

Whether chosen individually or experienced together as a complete ritual, the Trilogy Collection offers a holistic approach to wellbeing, allowing each guest to reconnect with what they need most in the moment. Inlight Touch Therapy Inlight Beauty partners with the Amethyst Trust to help make spa experiences more inclusive and accessible for those living with or recovering from cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. Amethyst Trust training is accredited by the Federation of Holistic Therapists, approved by the

Standards Authority for Touch in Cancer Care and aligned with recognised professional standards. “For our spa partners, Inlight Beauty represents a unique combination of uncompromising quality, thoughtful inclusivity and truly memorable guest experiences,” says Simmons. “As the Trust’s exclusive 100 per cent-certified organic skincare partner, Inlight Beauty supports spas and therapists in delivering safe, compassionate treatments with confidence.” BE INFORMED...

Discover more about Inlight Beauty’s expertly crafted skincare and treatment rituals: www.inlightbeauty.co.uk

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Business Insight Louise Molloy, Park Hyatt London River Thames

How to meet guests’ great expectations Expert contributor Louise Molloy, director of spa at Park Hyatt London River Thames, explores how spa businesses can respond to the ever-evolving wellness landscape

n today’s highly competitive wellness landscape, guest expectations continue to evolve, wellness trends emerge at an unprecedented pace, and spa operators are under increasing pressure to differentiate themselves, all while maintaining commercial performance. In many cases, the most successful innovations come from enhancing and evolving existing concepts while staying true to the core identity of your business. At Park Hyatt London River Thames, our concept evolution was not driven by trends alone but by listening closely to our guests and understanding how

LOUISE MOLLOY EXPERT CONTRIBUTOR

Louise Molloy is a respected spa leader with more than 30 years of experience in luxury hospitality, spa and wellness operations. She led the pre-opening strategy and spa launch for the UK debut of the Park Hyatt brand, helping position wellness as a key pillar of the luxury guest experience. Having worked across the UK, Middle East and Asia, she is known for delivering successful spa openings, driving commercial performance and developing high-performing teams. www.parkhyattlondon riverthames.com

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Business Insight Louise Molloy, Park Hyatt London River Thames From left: a treatment room at Park Hyatt London River Thames; the spa’s elegant indoor swimming pool

“While industry trends provide a useful benchmark, the most meaningful insights often come directly from your own clientele.” Louise Molloy Director of spa, Park Hyatt London River Thames wellness expectations are changing. When we opened, our spa offering reflected a more traditional luxury hotel spa model. However, guest feedback and behavioural data quickly highlighted a growing demand for more holistic, preventative and results-driven wellness experiences. Rather than reinventing the concept completely, we focused on enhancing what was already successful while simultaneously broadening the scope of our wellness proposition. This led to the introduction of a multidisciplinary wellness approach, bringing together a range of specialists whose expertise extended beyond traditional spa treatments. We expanded our offering to include osteopathy, acupuncture, specialist sports massage therapies, craniosacral therapy for nervous system regulation and recovery, and sound healing www.europeanspamagazine.com

experiences designed to promote relaxation and emotional wellbeing. While industry trends provide a useful benchmark, the most meaningful insights often come directly from your own clientele. It is vital to review treatment demand, guest feedback, consultation insights and booking patterns to help shape your decision-making process. Picking the right partners A big consideration for any spa leader is the partner brands you work with. Are your brands working for you in the spa? Do they serve your business in terms of positioning and identity? Are you getting the support you need? Start by conducting a review. You will need to evaluate treatment protocols, therapist training requirements, retail opportunities, guest perception and overall brand compatibility.

It is also important to assess the level of support a brand provides beyond the treatment room. Consider its commitment to staff education, marketing support, new product innovation, business development opportunities, and whether they can adapt alongside your evolving concept. Changing brands can also carry practical and financial implications, including investment in stock, equipment, treatment menu redevelopment, therapist retraining and marketing collateral. Taking a holistic view of both the operational and commercial impact will help ensure any transition delivers long-term value rather than short-term disruption. Following a detailed review, we transitioned from our original facial partner and introduced Omorovicza. This decision extended beyond product selection alone. It was driven by a 65

Business Insight Louise Molloy, Park Hyatt London River Thames Clockwise from left: the spa at Park Hyatt London River Thames is a sanctuary in the city; the opulent hotel lobby; the interior of the spa is designed to be calming and tranquil

desire to strengthen the spa’s luxury identity and create greater alignment with the sophisticated wellness experience expected within the Park Hyatt brand. Making a business case Introducing specialists, revising treatment menus, embracing new disciplines and changing product partners requires strong collaboration across multiple departments. For senior leadership, conversations should focus on differentiation, revenue opportunities, guest satisfaction, market positioning and long-term brand development. General managers and senior stakeholders are often balancing multiple priorities across the hotel, so it is important to present wellness initiatives in terms that resonate with overall business objectives. Rather than focusing on new treatments or trends, demonstrate how the proposed changes can contribute to increased revenue, higher guest satisfaction scores, stronger brand positioning, enhanced market competitiveness and improved guest loyalty. Supporting your proposal with guest feedback, market research, 66

physical recovery and overall health optimisation. Does this resonate with your guest profile and experience?

forecasted financial performance and clear implementation plans will help build confidence and gain their buy-in. Across the industry there is an increasing interest in recovery, stress management, longevity and preventative wellness. Spa guests are no longer seeking only relaxation; they are looking for solutions that support performance, resilience,

Leading with clarity Many spa concepts evolve over time and, as a spa leader, you can play a vital role in shaping this and ensuring it is a success. It is an exciting process, but there are several key considerations that should be addressed during the planning and implementation stages. These include understanding the financial investment required, ensuring operational readiness and assessing training and recruitment needs. Opportunities for cross-departmental collaboration must be indentified and clear performance metrics established. A clear communication strategy is necessary for both guests and team members. It is equally important to implement changes in a way that feels authentic to the existing identity of the spa, ensuring that innovations enhance the guest experience rather than dilute the original concept. www.europeanspamagazine.com

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Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

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Five of the best new spas Discover our autumn showcase of exceptional spas, where transformative wellness meets exemplary design

REPORT BY MARK SMITH

he pipeline of new developments in the spa and wellness market is increasingly robust. Across Europe, we continue to see new multi-million-pound projects opening every month. This is perhaps unsurprising given the findings of McKinsey’s Future of Wellness report 2026, which reveals the boundaries between health and wellness are blurring. It found that 84 per cent of consumers now rank wellness as their top priority and over half prioritise their wellness more than they did a year ago. The search for fully immersive spa experiences is creating huge demand, driving spa and hotel operators to further channel their capital into wellness facilities. In this issue of European Spa, we explore some impressive new openings from the UK to Austria, Italy, Spain and France. We find out how spa businesses are maximising natural connections in mountain settings, offering sea-front retreats for longevity and personalising luxurious treatments in beautiful island destinations.

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

BEST FOR LUXURY RITUALS

Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca

andarin Oriental has opened its first resort in the Balearic Islands. Situated on the southwest coastline in Calvia, Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca boasts 131 rooms and suites, lush gardens and a curated art pathway that connects galleries and site-specific installations. The property is the third project for Mandarin Oriental in Spain, following openings in Barcelona and Madrid. Its five buildings are inspired by the island’s history. Guests can expect impressive sea views, a seamless connection with nature and six restaurants from world-renowned chefs including Nobu Matsuhisa and Dani Garcia. The 700sqm Spa at Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra has nine treatment rooms, including two outdoors, in addition to La Calma Suite – a private treatment area with an outdoor deck, bathtub and two treatment tables by Lemi Group. The vision of BG Arquitectura, the spa blends

the natural beauty, traditions and craftsmanship of Mallorca with Mandarin Oriental’s Asian wellness heritage to create a sense of calm and renewal. “Our new spa is rooted in Mallorca, inspired by the East and designed for lasting wellbeing,” says director of spa and wellness, Valentina Citterio. Experiences and expertise Facilities at Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra include a heated hydromassage pool, steam bath, cold plunge and immersive showers that blend water, light and aromatherapy. There is also a vitality pool and two dry saunas – one in each changing room. A modern relaxation lounge offers a cocooning experience, while two outdoor swimming pools overlook the bay of Punta Negra. There is also a fully equipped Technogym fitness centre with an outdoor deck and Hyperice recovery technologies. Consultations with Evolt 360 body composition scanning can be prebooked alongside personal www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

INSIDE THE PROJECT Mandarin Oriental Punta Negra, Mallorca

Valentina Citterio Director of spa and wellness

www.mandarinoriental.com/en/mallorca/ punta-negra Spa size 700sqm Product partners Wildsmith, Sublime Oils, Augustinus Bader, Mandarin Oriental Signature Oils, Institut Esthederm, Najuana, Jabón de Mallorca Spa suppliers Lemi Group, Technogym, the Labo, Vayoil Textiles, SpaSoft, BC Softwear, Dyson, Hyperice, Indiba, Déesse, Evolt 360, Ecoalf, Closca, Technogym, Les Mills, T’Estim, Mandarin Oriental Signature Teas

training, yoga and meditation classes. Every treatment, ritual and detail has been designed to allow meaningful transformation, connecting guests with themselves, the destination and a lasting sense of balance. A light-filled retail and reception area features local Mallorcan brands Najuana and Jabón de Mallorca, while treatment partners include Wildsmith, Sublime Oils and Augustinus Bader. The spa also offers Déesee PRO red-light therapies. Visiting wellness residencies have included wellness coach and personal trainer Jimmy Jarnet. Laura Dodd, founder of the Yoga Class, has also led a retreat that combined yoga, meditation, breathwork and mindful movement to promote balance, relaxation and a deeper sense of calm. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

BEST FOR NATURE IMMERSIONS

Sakura Spa at Gisborough Hall, UK

et on the edge of the North York Moors in Yorkshire, Gisborough Hall has opened its new Sakura Spa following a £3.5m (€4.1m) investment. The privately owned four-star country house hotel offers 59 bedrooms and three luxury shepherd huts as well as award-winning dining options. Its new spa has been designed as a contemporary, nature-led retreat that combines thermal wellness, holistic treatments, innovative touchless technology and seasonal dining. “Sakura Spa offers something genuinely different within the North Yorkshire spa market,” says spa director Vicki Jackson. “From the design and thermal journey through to our treatment menu, head spa, Welnamis experience and Koyo dining concept, every element has been carefully considered to create a cohesive wellness offering.” Inspired by nature Taking its name from the Japanese word for cherry blossom, the Sakura Spa concept draws on Japanese principles of simplicity, mindfulness and connection with nature. The interiors combine Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian influences, creating a refined aesthetic 74

through natural stone, warm wood, tactile textures and a muted palette. Designed by Nic Tamlin with spa consultancy from Nicki Kurran, the spa features six treatment rooms, including a couples’ suite and the Sakura Head Spa. The treatment menu boasts a range of therapies from Elemis and Bamford. An outdoor thermal garden includes a vitality pool, Finnish sauna, herbal sauna, salt steam room and cold plunge, alongside relaxation spaces. Sakura Spa’s dedicated dining concept, Koyo (Japanese for autumn leaves), focuses on nourishing, seasonal dishes, including salads, brunch, light meals and wellness drinks. Technology built in Guests can experience Welnamis by Gharieni, an innovative non-touch therapy designed to calm the nervous system and promote deep relaxation through immersive sound and gentle vibrations. Other specialist spa suppliers involved in the creation of Sakura Spa include AGB Services for its pool and Anapos for sauna equipment. Treatment beds are supplied by Ellisons, uniforms by Sunset Vibes, towels and linens by BC Softwear, and spa software is by Journey. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

INSIDE THE PROJECT Sakura Spa at Gisborough Hall, UK

Vicki Jackson Spa director

www.europeanspamagazine.com

www.gisborough-hall.com Spa size 3,472 sqm Product partners Elemis and Bamford Spa suppliers Sunset Vibes, Anapos, BC Softwear, Ellisons Hair & Beauty, Gharieni, Journey, AMW Design, AGB Services

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

Nature & Sky Spa at Hotel Lürzerhof, Austria

BEST FOR ALPINE REJUVENATION

ocated in Untertauern, around one hour from Salzburg airport, Hotel Lürzerhof has reopened following a €10m (£8.5m) transformation. The project, led by architects köck+bachler, features an impressive adults-only rooftop wellness sanctuary, where a 20-metre infinity pool appears to float above the surrounding Radstädter Tauern mountains. A new floor of luxury accommodation and an adults-only wellness level have been added, as well as significant enhancements to the hotel’s Nature & Sky Spa, which now totals 4,500sqm.

The new fourth-floor accommodation includes six luxury suites and two additional rooms, increasing the resort’s offering to 68 rooms and suites. Designed in a contemporary alpine style with floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive terraces and spa-inspired interiors, a select number of the new Sky Suites also feature private panorama saunas, outdoor whirlpools and dedicated wellness spaces. Taking wellness to another level An entirely new fifth floor dedicated to adults-only wellbeing spans 900sqm and offers uninterrupted views across the mountains. Its centrepiece is a spectacular 20-metre cantilevered outdoor infinity pool that appears to float above the landscape. The new wellness level includes Finnish and organic panoramic saunas, an infrared salt dome, aroma steam bath, ice grotto, two panoramic 76

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

INSIDE THE PROJECT Hotel Lürzerhof, Austria

Sarah Rossmann Spa manager

www.luerzerhof.at Spa size 4,500sqm Product partner Team Dr. Joseph Spa suppliers Devine, Schroll, Physiotherm, Rossin, Kerum, Rauch, Zollner, Multitex, Soleni, Hamberger, Matrix Fitness, Elite Smart Systems

relaxation rooms and a dedicated tea lounge. The transformation also extends to the resort’s pre-existing spa facilities, with a redesigned wellness reception and lounge, two additional treatment rooms, taking the total to seven, and a collection of new signature spa rituals inspired by the surrounding landscape and the wellness traditions of the region. “The new spa has given us the opportunity to create a much more complete wellness experience at Lürzerhof,” says spa manager Sarah Rossmann. “The adults-only rooftop floor is particularly special, with panoramic saunas, quiet relaxation spaces and the infinity pool opening directly onto the mountains. Our expanded treatment facilities have also allowed us to develop new signature rituals inspired by Alpine ingredients and traditions.” www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

BEST FOR VENETIAN ELEGANCE

Spa Airelles Palladio by Guerlain, Venice, Italy

ocated on Giudecca Island, the hotel Airelles Palladio Venice occupies a peaceful waterfront location with sweeping views across to St Mark’s Square. The property comprises three historic 16th-century buildings set within nearly a hectare of gardens, all restored to reflect their heritage. With 45 keys comprised of 17 rooms and 28 suites, and a private three-bedroom villa complete with a pool and secluded garden, the hotel is Airelles’ first property outside France. Airelles Palladio Venice aims to bring the group’s unique ethos to life while paying homage to La Serenìssima. The French company is renowned for revitalising grand houses and country estates, and in Venice guests can expect a 1,750sqm spa and wellness

centre as well as three pools and a kids’ club. Overlooking fragrant sun-drenched Mediterranean gardens, the sizeable Guerlain Spa comprises four treatment rooms, including one double room, a yoga and fitness studio, a serene hammam, a Finnish sauna and a 10°C cold plunge pool. There is also an Iyashi Dôme sauna offering infrared therapy, a relaxation room and tranquil spa garden, a fully equipped gym and a 64sqm indoor swimming pool. Engineering consultancy design was completed by Barr + Wray. Guerlain and the art of living Marking its Venetian debut, iconic French skincare and cosmetics house Guerlain unveils an exclusive collection of restorative wellness rituals inspired by Italian artistry and designed around the www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

INSIDE THE PROJECT Spa Airelles Palladio by Guerlain, Venice, Italy

Étienne Petitpez General manager

www.airelles.com/en/destination/venice Spa size 1,750sqm Products and treatments Exclusively Guerlain Spa suppliers Gharieni, Domus, Iyashi Dôme, Technogym, Rossano Ferretti HairSpa, Barr + Wray, Pent

philosophy of beauty and balance. “At Airelles Palladio Venice, wellbeing is an art of living,” says general manager Étienne Petitpez. “The Guerlain Spa brings together exceptional expertise, French savoir-faire and the timeless soul of Venice to create a deeply personal sense of beauty, balance and escape.” Adding to its renowned ateliers in New York, Paris and Hong Kong, Rossano Ferretti Parma brings its celebrated HairSpa concept to Airelles Palladio Venice, marking its 20th salon partnership worldwide. A professional fitness coach offers spa guests private training sessions, mobility and stretching classes, and self-defence training. A local wellness consultant leads a programme of holistic experiences included in guest stays, featuring activities such as garden wake-up sessions, breathwork and floating wellness experiences. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

BEST FOR LONGEVITY PROGRAMMING

ORA Longevity at Hôtel Barrière Le Royal, France

he Barrière Collection, renowned for its 21 luxury hotels and 16 spas, has introduced its first longevity centre at Hôtel Barrière Le Royal, La Baule in western France. Combining innovation and personalisation, ORA The Longevity Bay blends health prevention, scientific innovation and seaside art de vivre. Designed by Bureau Gimbert Comy, the spa is also open to guests at Barrière Collection sister properties L’Hermitage and Le Castel Marie-Louise. The ORA method is based on a belief that longevity begins with a deep understanding of one’s own body. Retreats start with in-depth medical assessments that analyse the body’s major balances and imbalances to then create an entirely personalised journey. Longevity and more general wellness retreats start from four days. “More than a matter of lifespan, longevity is a quality of life. It emerges from physical balance, mental vitality and the attention we devote, through self-awareness, to the passage of time,” 80

says Yoakim Tregaro, head of wellness, Barrière Group. “With ORA, we have chosen to take a bold step: introducing into French hospitality a rigorous and structured approach to longevity – one firmly grounded in innovation.”

INSIDE THE PROJECT ORA Longevity at Hôtel Barrière Le Royal, France

Yoakim Tregaro Head of wellness

www.hotelsbarriere.com/en/la-baule/ experiences/ora-longevity Spa size 2,058sqm Product partners Phytomer, Biologique Recherche Spa suppliers Inline London, Gharieni, Technogym, AquaO, Oxyhealth, Cryojet, Oligoscan, InBody, Lunar IDXA, Spirometry, GE HealthCare, Laboratoire BioAvenir, Oxyrevo, PSiO

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Spa Spotlight Five of the best spas for autumn

World-leading analysis Backed by a collective of experts including doctors, dieticians, sports coaches, physical therapists and osteopaths, ORA’s holistic approach is guided by preventative health assessments, good nutrition and a range of marine treatments, massages, energy therapies and facial aesthetics. Movement and physical therapy are complemented by mind-based sessions including meditation, sophrology and cognitive stimulation. The group’s investment in medical technology and diagnostics is impressive, with on-site assessments by GE HealthCare, a world leader in imaging; Laboratoire BioAvenir, a pioneer in www.europeanspamagazine.com

nutritional and functional biology; and InBody, which offers advanced body analysis. Facilities include 39 treatment rooms, including 23 thalassotherapy rooms and 16 spa ritual experience rooms. There are three heated seawater pools, a heated seawater swimming pool with marine circuit, a fitness room and exercise studios. Two relaxation and wellness areas include a sauna and hammam. The treatment menu combines the marine actives of Phytomer and the technical expertise of Biologique Recherche. Hyperbaric oxygen and cryotherapy are offered alongside innovative light and audio relaxation courtesy of PSiO. 81

Business Insight The Big Question

THE BIG

UESTION Do alcohol and spas really mix?

art of the celebratory nature of many guest experiences, alcohol is commonplace in spas. True, at some locations it is strictly off the menu for detox, ayurvedic or strict health purposes. But often spa day packages are based around champagne lunches or afternoon teas, with some serving a glass of prosecco as part of a treatment. The uplift of alcohol sales can be an important revenue stream and contribute significantly to a

spa’s profit. Handled responsibly, they add value and also enhance the enjoyment for many guests. However, the European Spa team has witnessed several examples of poor guest behaviour in spas due to over consumption of alcohol. There are also challenges around receiving treatments and the use of thermal experiences while under the influence. We explore this important topic with four leading industry experts to find out whether and how to responsibly serve alcohol in a spa setting.

www.europeanspamagazine.com

Business Insight The Big Question

Alcohol should complement... not dominate

Emma Pridding

lcohol has long been associated with celebration and sociability, and offered thoughtfully within a spa environment it can enhance the guest experience and benefit the spa commercially. From a financial perspective, premium food and beverage partnerships create opportunities for upselling, whether through welcome drinks, champagne packages or guests extending their stays. One of the most successful examples at Carden Park (pictured) is the Bollinger Experience. Guests are welcomed with a glass of champagne on arrival and have private use of our Bollinger Thermal Garden Pod. They are also given exclusive Bollinger gifts to take home. Our partnership with Bollinger sets us apart in a competitive market and helps to elevate the perceived

“Ultimately, it’s about balance. By offering alcohol responsibly spas can create memorable, premium experiences that benefit both guests and the business.” Emma Pridding Spa director, Carden Park, UK

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value of a spa day. It also encourages guests to trade up their packages, increases F&B spend and creates experiences that are highly shareable on social media. Enjoy responsibly... Ultimately, it’s about balance. By offering alcohol responsibly, spas can create memorable, premium experiences that benefit both guests and their business without compromising safety, wellbeing or the integrity of the spa experience. Guest wellbeing must always remain the priority. Alcohol should complement the spa journey, never dominate it. Our team is trained to promote responsible consumption and we have clear operational procedures in place should a guest become intoxicated. This is particularly important around thermal facilities, where excessive alcohol consumption can increase health and safety risks. We encourage guests to enjoy alcoholic drinks after using heat experiences wherever possible (rather than before) and ensure our team remains vigilant throughout the guest journey. 83

Business Insight The Big Question

The relationship between alcohol and spa culture is evolving

cross Europe, guests are increasingly seeking depth, meaningful transformation and less alcohol in their thermal journeys. Presence is a central ingredient and alcohol pulls us away from being present. In social spa settings, alcohol can complement the atmosphere. Guests come to unwind, connect and enjoy the comfort of water and warmth. Here, a glass of wine may feel like part of the experience. Lasse Eriksen But in structured thermal sessions, sauna ceremonies, sensory journeys and cold-heat cycles, the story changes. Alcohol impairs thermoregulation, increases dehydration and dulls the very awareness these practices rely on. Research from Finland, the world’s most studied sauna culture, shows alcohol is present in around half of sauna-related fatalities. The risk is not the sauna itself, but the compromised judgment that alcohol creates. Transformation requires clarity Heat, cold and breathwork place demands on the body. Alcohol amplifies dehydration, destabilises blood pressure and reduces the ability to sense distress. Hydration, gradual exposure, information and expert guidance are essential safeguards. At Farris Bad, we host groups for deep sensory sessions and the guide is responsible for the wellbeing of every participant. Clarity is non-negotiable. We refrain from substance use because these journeys, often two to three hours long, require full attention to the mind, body and spirit. Alcohol has a historical place in social spa culture. But in transformational thermal experiences, where release, connection and inner work take centre stage, clarity is the foundation. And clarity and alcohol rarely walk hand in hand.

“Research shows alcohol is present in many sauna related fatalities. The risk is not the sauna itself, but the compromised judgment that alcohol creates.” Lasse Eriksen Development manager, Farris Bad, Norway

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Business Insight The Big Question Clockwise from left: Eden Hall includes alcoholic beverages as part of its spa day packages; a couple relaxing with a drink at Carden Park; alcohol and aufguss do not mix at Farris Bad

Rules must be made clear during inductions

elling alcohol as part of, or alongside, a spa package could improve the profit per guest visit, as alcohol typically carries a higher margin than food. A champagne afternoon tea is often one of the most popular packages a spa can sell. In practice, alcohol consumption tends to self-regulate as most day spa guests have driven to the venue, so limit their intake. Many wellness retreats set Lesley Bacon expectations from the outset, making it clear if a programme is alcohol-free. Overindulgence is more likely in group bookings. This is why guests should be informed of the spa’s rules both in person upon arrival and in website FAQ sections. Any alcohol-free areas should be clearly highlighted to avoid rules being broken unintentionally. Support your team Spas don’t necessarily need to ban alcohol, but should ensure that teams are clear on their policies so they can manage situations confidently. A thorough guest induction is crucial. Hosts should walk through the facilities, offering guidance and pointing out safety notices around hydrotherapy areas. Poor behaviour is rare, but staff should always feel supported in enforcing a zero-tolerance policy and raising concerns with a supervisor/manager, escalating to senior management where needed. Identifying the lead booker or designated driver within a group can also help, to ensure a member of the group will support them in managing individuals’ behaviour. Many spas now offer a comprehensive range of non-alcoholic drinks, from sparkling and still wine to well-crafted cocktails, giving guests plenty of ways to mark a special occasion without needing alcohol at all.

“Poor behaviour is rare, but teams should feel supported in enforcing a zero-tolerance policy and raising concerns with a manager.” Lesley Bacon Spa and wellness director, The Good Spa Guide

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Business Insight The Big Question

Considered alcohol service can boost revenue

lcohol is made available throughout the building and grounds at Eden Hall (pictured) by waiter service, rather than a service-at-bar model. This allows our team to deliver attentive, professional service while maintaining the calm atmosphere expected in a wellness environment. Every team member involved in serving alcohol is trained in licensing regulations and Challenge 25, so guests who appear under 25 will be asked for identification. Our duty managers provide an additional layer of oversight, monitoring service across the property and supporting the team where needed. This considered approach ensures alcohol responsibly complements the wider spa experience.

Nerys Chell

“The right drinks offering, combined with an appealing setting and attentive service, can turn a secondary space into a meaningful contributor to revenue.” Nerys Chell Managing director, Eden Hall, UK

No and low-alcohol options Managed well, alcohol can provide a valuable revenue stream. During the summer months, cocktails – including low and no-alcohol options – account for around 40 per cent of beverage sales. Well-made and beautifully presented drinks have also become a marketing asset, with guests photographing and sharing them. This generates a steady stream of organic social engagement and helps showcase the Eden Hall experience. We introduced a spritz selection in our Shepherd’s Hut this year and have since experienced a significant increase in drinks sales. This demonstrates how the right offering, combined with an appealing setting and attentive service, can turn a secondary space into a meaningful contributor to revenue. For us, commercial opportunity and responsible service go hand in hand. Guests are more likely to spend, and to enjoy their overall experience, in an environment where service is thoughtful and carefully managed. www.europeanspamagazine.com

COTTONMILL SPA SOPWELL HOUSE

CREATORS OF BEAUTIFUL, IMMERSIVE, INNOVATIVE & BESPOKE SPA AND WELLBEING EXPERIENCES. WOBURN FOREST AQUA SANA SERENITY SUITE

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CONTACT US E: b everley@sparcstudio.co.uk T: +44 (0)203 637 5997 W: w ww.sparcstudio.co.uk beverley@sparcstudio.co.uk www.sparcstudio.co.uk

Brands to Watch ESPA promotion

A sanctuary for connection

Iconic spa brand ESPA has brought its curated collection of holistic, personalised wellness treatments to the stunning landscapes of Palawan in the Philippines

lobal spa and wellness brand ESPA has developed a signature spa offering at the El Nido Resort, Lagen in the Philippine province of Palawan. ESPA supported the Lagen Wellness Center through pre-opening with supplies and equipment, technical and operational training, and the creation of brand standards and the guest journey. ESPA worked with the team to create a menu of locally inspired healing rituals, delivered by both local practitioners and the spa’s therapists. “It was a pleasure to work with the Ayala Land Hospitality and El Nido Resort teams to bring this beautiful spa to life,” says Sharon Haynes, senior pre-opening spa associate at ESPA. “A jewel nestled in the most beautiful landscape, the spa has a truly holistic heart, bringing wellness as a way of life to all guests, while connecting them to the rhythms of nature.” A spa rooted in tradition With three double treatment suites and separate male and female changing rooms with saunas, steam rooms and hot and cold plunge pools, Lagen Wellness Center is completed by a stunning relaxation terrace. Together with the El Nido team, ESPA has created a spa where wellness is a philosophy rooted in nature, care and intentionality. Alongside holistic, personalised treatments, such as the Jade Serenity Experience, the spa offers traditional Philippine rejuvenating

and healing journeys that harness the natural properties of local flora.

“The spa brings wellness as a way of life to all guests, while connecting them to the rhythms of nature.” Sharon Haynes Senior pre-opening spa associate, ESPA

Innovating with ancient knowledge Bringing the wisdom of traditional healers to life through the use of indigenous herbs, chanting and energy alignment, the spa offers rituals passed down through generations. The deeply intuitive Hilot Therapy channels wellness through the touch of another, while Babaylan Healing Sessions are rooted in ancient knowledge. “El Nido Resort encapsulates the essence of ESPA’s holistic wellness philosophy,” says Catherine Wong, ESPA’s vice-president of spa operations, Asia. “It has been a pleasure to see the partnership through from pre-opening to a successful operational launch. We look forward to continuing to create thoughtful treatments and wellness experiences that allow every guest to benefit from both ancient wisdom and modern innovation.”

World-leading spa partnerships ESPA is globally renowned as a forward-thinking brand that strives to offer its spa partners innovative ways to elevate their spa services. The brand’s portfolio includes the creation of both luxurious, UK-manufactured spa products and one-of-a-kind luxury spas. ESPA combines the conceptualisation, development and management of five-star spas with natural products and treatments, guided by 30 years’ experience. If you would like to know how ESPA can support your spa, email: enquiries@espainternational.co.uk | www.espaskincare.com

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Results-driven Organic Skincare Discover ishga, powered by antioxidant-rich Hebridean seaweed, sustainably sourced from the shores of the Isle of Lewis. Nourish, protect and transform all skin types.

www.ishga.com hello@ishga.co.uk www.ishga.com | hello@ishga.co.uk

On the Menu

O U R P I C K O F T H E L AT E S T P R O D U C T L A U N C H E S A N D T R E AT M E N T I N N O VAT I O N S Ed i te d by M a r k S m i t h

Germaine de Capuccini targets dark spots Part of the Expert Lab concept, Pigment Therapy from Germaine de Capuccini is a preventive, corrective and maintenance system for skin with dark spots, uneven tone or a tendency towards hyperpigmentation. Based on 4-Path System technology, its key components are ‘exfoliation’ to remove accumulations of hyperpigmented keratinocytes and ‘synthesis’ to help regulate the activity of tyrosinase, a key enzyme involved in melanin production. A ‘transfer’ process aims to modulate the transport of melanin from melanocytes to keratinocytes for more even pigmentation.’Protection’ works to limit signals that can stimulate pigmentation, such as solar radiation, inflammation or oxidative stress. New Pigment Therapy features a personalised professional treatment with expert guidance according to skin type, condition and tolerance. It combines an option of two adjustable chemical peels – Dark Spot Complex and multi-corrective Advanced Dark Spot Mask – which boast a range of targeted actives. Professional aftercare includes broad-spectrum Daily Hi Defense SPF50 Mineral, Dark Spot Minimising Concentrate, Dark Spot Emulsion and Moisturising Dermoprotective Gel. These help to intensify and prolong the results of the treatment. www.germainedecapuccini.com

“New Pigment Therapy enables spas to offer a genuinely personalised pigmentation protocol. It also supports retail sales and repeat bookings.” Robert Stout Country manager, UK, Germaine de Capuccini

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Spa Specifier On the Menu

Inlight Beauty delivers a natural alternative to retinol Inlight Beauty has unveiled Night Repair Serum, an advanced bio-active formulation with organic bakuchiol, a natural alternative to retinol. Designed to support optimal skin function at a cellular level, the serum helps enhance the skin’s resilience, promotes natural regeneration and supports a healthier, more radiant complexion. Developed to calm irritation and boost skin health, Night Repair Serum delivers lasting hydration and strengthens the protective barrier. It’s rich in antioxidants to protect against environmental aggressors and free-radical damage. Oleic and linoleic acids from apricot oil help lock in moisture while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Buriti oil supports skin elasticity and camellia seed oil eases inflammation. www.inlightbeauty.co.uk

Ground adds to its Biome skincare collection Biome Repair Mask and Daily Fluid from Ground help to boost the microbiome and improve skin hydration. Suitable for all skin types, they are also safe for use during pregnancy and cancer treatments. Containing three per cent niacinamide to boost ceramide production, strengthening the skin’s barrier and improving hydration, Biome Repair Mask also contains lactobacillus ferment, a probiotic and antioxidant that helps to repair DNA, protects against environmental stressors and reduces inflammation. Sodium hyaluronate deeply moisturises and lactic acid gently exfoliates, supporting the microbiome. Biome Daily Fluid is a lightweight moisturiser with sodium hyaluronate to boost hydration and strengthen the skin; squalene balances the microbiome for healthier, stress-free skin. www.groundwellbeing.com

Spa Specifier On the Menu

B R A N D T O WAT C H

Legology steps into spas Founded by ex-beauty journalist Kate Shapland, Legology is a unique leg care brand that offers clinically proven formulas to combat leg fatigue as well as slack, dry and devitalised skin. A selection of sculpting and contouring leg treatments (and partner retail products) use lymph drainage techniques to shape and refine the legs, buttocks and tummy. The range’s uplifting Amalfi lemon fragrance was created for the brand by perfumier Robertet Grasse. Legology is rapidly expanding in the spa market, partnering with Talise Spa at Jumeirah Al Qasr in Dubai, Hilton Eforea Spa at the Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah and Spa Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi. www.legology.co

“The formulas deliver fast contouring, but it’s the textures and fragrance that hook in repeat fans after a single experience.” Kate Shapland Founder, Legology

Secrets de Sothys debuts longevity skin programme To mark its 80th anniversary, Sothys has unveiled a new generation of Secrets de Sothys Le Serum focused on skin longevity. The holistic approach is inspired by the skin’s complex mechanisms and its ability to sustainably preserve its balance, vitality and radiance. Stem cell extract from a specially grown rose is combined with precious porcelain flower oil to preserve youthful skin. The new formulas also incorporate peptides derived from organic milk thistle seeds, based on Sothys’ latest research into skin-brain communication and longevity. Promoting radiance and hydration, the brand has also launched a new 90-minute Secrets de Sothys treatment that combines cosmetic efficacy, neurocosmetics and expert techniques to boost the skin’s natural renewal processes and its biological rhythm at a cellular level. www.sothys.com

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Spa Specifier On the Menu

Ariadne Athens reveals bodycare duo The Muse Cocoon Body Scrub and Body Butter duo from Ariadne Athens has been developed to be used in sequence, beginning with an exfoliation using the brand’s award-winning formula. To conclude, the rich, non-greasy butter settles into the skin and offers a soft, cocooning scent. With a fragrance that is both calming and engaging, Muse Cocoon Body Scrub resurfaces and prepares the skin with a sugar base while shea butter and sunflower oil hydrate and soften. Muse Cocoon Body Butter is a creamy, fast-absorbing texture that never feels heavy, enveloping the skin in a scent built around wild cyclamen, offering a fresh gentle floral note, amber grounds it with warmth. www.ariadne-athens.com

TREATMENT FOCUS

Margaret Dabbs LED Hand Mitts Margaret Dabbs London has expanded the introduction of its AstraeaNatura LED Hand Mitts into some of the most prestigious luxury spa destinations. By incorporating the skin-rejuvenating LED Hand Mitts into existing facial and body rituals, spas can offer a more comprehensive rejuvenation experience. The passive treatment has a high-margin return and addresses one of the most common signs of ageing – the hands. It can be seamlessly combined with other services, ensuring that the guest receives a transformative, multi-zone treatment in a single session. Margaret Dabbs London’s LED Hand Mitts are currently used in Four Seasons, Belmond and Dior spas as well as other locations globally. www.margaretdabbs.co.uk

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Spa Specifier On the Menu

of the best eye treatments

We showcase the ultimate in eye care, from iconic hero products to new autumn launches

ESPA Tri-Active Lift & Firm Intensive Eye Serum A nourishing eye concentrate to smooth, soften, brighten and firm, with plant and marine actives such as wild olive, starry algae, sea amber and golden root. www.espaskincare.com

Jurlique Herbal Recovery Eye Oil Roll-On This cooling oil roll-on massages and smoothes wrinkles around the eyes, targeting dark circles and puffiness. It is designed to deliver a more youthful, brighter and even appearance. www.jurlique.co.uk

TempleSpa Glass Act An eye lifting serum to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Cooling and refreshing, hyaluronic acid, peptides and marine exopolysaccharides help to firm and lift. www.templespa.com

Body reawakening: Decleor launches Aroma Blend

Omorovicza Blue Diamond Eye Cream

A trio of innovative ingredients in the Blue Diamond Complex work to revitalise and lift the eye contour including blue diamond peptides, mimosa bark extract and healing concentrate. www.omorovicza.co.uk

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Elemis Pro-Collagen Future Restore Eye Serum This innovative formulation targets three types of dark circle and four types of eye wrinkle with Opal Skin Algae Complex, lumi algae and marine bacillus ferment. www.elemis.com

Wildsmith Active Super Eye Serum Formulated to be lightweight in texture but intensively hydrating in a silky fast-absorbing serum. Hyaluronic acid and larch tree extract aids the skin in retaining moisture. www.wildsmithskin.com

Spa Specifier On the Menu

Scentered taps into contrast bathing movement with launch of Sauna Balm Renowned for its portable aromatherapy rituals and balms, Scentered has launched a new innovation: Escape Sauna Balm designed to enhance sauna, steam and wellness experiences through the power of scent. The hard balm features a unisex scent combination of grounding oud, frankincense and sandalwood. The formula also features clarifying eucalyptus, uplifting peppermint, revitalising pine needle and calming cedarwood essential oils. The balm ensures the ritual can be enjoyed in a personalised private way, without impacting sauna stones or other users by spreading the oil throughout the thermal space. It can also be used post-exercise recovery, to support Pilates, yoga or meditation practices and travel selfcare routines. www.scentered.com

TREATMENT FOCUS

Spa L’Occitane en Provence Relaxing Aromachologie Massage Created in 2001 with the opening of the first Spa L’Occitane en Provence, the brand’s iconic Relaxing Aromachologie Massage has been reimagined for 2026, as the company celebrates 50 years in business and 25 years of spa expertise. Its comprehensive full-body choreography combines signature connection movements, changing rhythms and purposeful pauses, said to be a contemporary response to constant stimulation. These invite guests to ‘disconnect and reconnect’ through a combination of sensorial experiences and expert touch. Scientifically evaluated, the 60-minute massage delivers immediate improvements across body, mind and emotions with results including an 87 per cent perceived reduction in body tension, 50 per cent improvement in a sense of serenity and 150 per cent increase in feelings of inner liberation. www.loccitane.com

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Spa Specifier On the Menu

Saskia Spa curates a collection of thematically linked elixirs To treat the complexion while boosting mental wellbeing, Saskia Spa has developed a range of five themed elixirs. Calming Elixir is formulated with therapeutic-grade neroli, which is deeply calming and stress-relieving, transforming a simple facial massage into an emotional reset. Soothing Elixir’s formula blends French lavender with a vitamin-rich macadamia and jojoba base, delivering immediate, calming comfort for reactive skin. Balancing Elixir harnesses pink lotus to purify and moisturise oily-prone skin without causing congestion, while Rejuvenating Elixir uses potent rose essential oil to plump and smooth fine lines with a sensorial experience. Serenity Elixir offers a skincare boost from grounding sandalwood but also acts to enhance mental clarity. www.saskiaspa.com | www.mamibacare.com

Natura Bissé combines four exfoliating acids into one face mask Inspired by its advanced professional treatments, Natura Bissé has introduced the at-home skin refiner, Diamond Molecular Acid4 Peel-Mask. It combines glycolic, lactic, pyruvic and tranexamic acids, in a formula featuring a 14 per cent total acid concentration. In just 10 minutes, skin appears smoother, more radiant, firmer-looking and visibly refreshed. The appearance of uneven tone, fine lines and discolouration is noticeably improved. There’s no downtime thanks to an exclusive formula with a controlled pH. Crafted from biodegradable plant-based banana fibre and certified by Oeko-Tex, the mask adheres to the skin, enhancing the delivery of key ingredients through its occlusive effect. Its two-piece design ensures a precise and comfortable fit. www.naturabisse.com

European Spa selects the best professional product launches for spas. Contact mark.smith@spapublishing.com

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Spa Spotlight Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand

Embracing life’s potential We visit the globally renowned Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary to explore its award-winning approach to holistic, integrated wellness REPORT BY MARK SMITH

amalaya Wellness Sanctuary has a global reputation for its integrated approach to holistic health. The multi-award-winning property is a byword for wellness and has been welcoming guests to its quiet corner of the lush tropical island of Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand for over 21 years. Far removed from the tourist trail, the property with 76 rooms, suites and villas is set among swaying palm trees and lush landscaped tropical gardens with its own private beach. It offers a complete immersion in nature and allows guests to disconnect from their daily stresses and immerse in peace, quiet and tranquillity. Founded in 2005, the resort is a unique proposition focused on embracing the restorative power of nature while rediscovering the body’s innate healing potential through functional medicine. Combining ancient eastern curative traditions with modern medical research, the resort regards health as a truly interconnected aim and programmes are personalised accordingly. Under the guidance of general manager and director of wellness development Gopal Kumar, who has been helping to shape the resort since 2017, Kamalaya’s trailblazing concept has inspired a swathe of properties around the world. “We want to be the most holistic, integrated wellness sanctuary, and we remain attached to that. Whether it is food or the treatments, it must be part of a holistic approach,” says Kumar. “We always explore options that will have an impact from a 98

prevention point of view, from a care side and from a healing perspective.” Integrated wellness at the highest level Kamalaya’s programming is delivered by a team of 100 certified practitioners including doctors, nurses, naturopaths, nutritionists, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners, Thai and Ayurvedic therapists, physiotherapists, osteopaths, breathwork and yoga specialists and life coaches. The level of expertise is impressive and the team are integral to providing a seamless guest journey. Most programmes start from one week and can extend to a few months. The average stay is eight nights on a programme. Holistic medicine from eastern and western traditions is combined to offer more than 80 therapies and treatments embracing TCM, Ayurveda and traditional Thai healing. Programmes based around restoring and recharging are most popular, but guests can deep dive into any one of 20 on offer from detox, embracing change and finding emotional balance to fitness, brain enhancement and restoring structural and postural alignment. Each approach is expertly executed to achieve real transformation. “We’re blending modalities across our offer – that is what real integration is,” says Kumar. “Integrated medicine is about utilising modern, research-based science alongside traditional healing aspects. We combine those two for a most powerful outcome.” www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand

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Spa Spotlight Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand

A sanctuary for the soul The wellness sanctuary is the beating heart of the property and it’s where the treatment journey begins. An open-air reception leads guests to 48 treatment rooms set across multiple levels, with incredible views of the Gulf of Thailand. Improving health through the healing power of functional medicine is central to the Kamalaya concept, and boosting longevity has always been part of the property’s DNA. Kumar notes that it’s important to take a holistic view of longevity itself. “Longevity is not just one biohack intervention for one day, it is literally a whole way of living. Movement and sleep are also hugely important,” he says. “At the end of the day its health span we are trying to improve.” Movement and fitness are a core part of this, and the fitness centre is home to personal training, self-guided gym sessions and specific movement and mobility classes. A daily schedule is designed around the circadian rhythm – gently waking up the body and mind early in the morning with sessions Below: at the spiritual core of Kamalaya’s Wellness Sanctuary is the Arjan cave – a sacred space for meditation

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“Longevity is not just one biohack intervention for one day, it is literally a whole way of living... Movement and sleep are also hugely important. At the end of the day its health span we are trying to improve.” Gopal Kumar General manager and director of wellness development, Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary

including mantra chanting, meditation, Tai Chi or Qigong. Meditation can be anything from Vedantic to chakra or a simple mindful awareness practice. Guests can then choose to join a plethora of yogic styles from hatha and vinyasa to ashtanga or yin yoga. Throughout the day things become more energetic with reformer Pilates, Muay Thai movement, spinal mobility, TRX suspension training, stretching and mobility, aqua boxing or aqua aerobics. As the day closes, classes wind down

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again, to ease the body and mind, becoming gentler with yoga nidra, pranayama breath work, meditation and guided herbal walks through the property. Looking at longevity In 2023, Kamalaya opened its Longevity House to provide more comprehensive health assessments including blood biomarkers, gut microbiome tests, epigenetic profiling, heavy metal toxicity and cancer screening, and women’s health assessments. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, ozone therapy and IV infusions are also available here. “Functional testing is the key foundation to your longevity. Because you need to know what is going on inside the body,” says Kumar. “Once you have that then you can try and take steps to fix it.” More recently the team has embraced brain health with its Brain Enhancement programme, which introduced a series of therapies designed to boost cognitive function and mental wellbeing. These include neuro-lymphatic therapy, neurofeedback, neuromodulation therapy and transcranial photobiomodulation therapy to improve the potential of the brain. Marking 21 years of transformation and spiritual evolution, and over two years in development, Kamalaya has introduced Sacred Renewal – an immersive programme inviting guests to realign with the lunar rhythms that have guided human www.europeanspamagazine.com

The best in consultation and care Head naturopath Kate Upton explains how Kamalaya’s team are guardians for guest wellbeing “At Kamalaya we have a multi-disciplinary team approach. This ensures a comprehensive and personalised experience for guests. We also have mentors who focus on mental and emotional wellbeing, offering private sessions tailored to different programmes. “I oversee a team of naturopaths and wellness consultants who conduct consultations for various programmes, including ideal weight and sleep. The bio-impedance analysis test measures body composition, aiding initial discussions but not always guiding treatment plans, which are primarily based on guests’ goals. “Our Wellness Guardians provide pre and post-visit support. Based off site, they have an intimate understanding of the Kamalaya ethos and they’re kept up to date with practicalities and any new developments. They offer the pre-arrival calls, so anyone who’s thinking of coming here can have a 15-minute conversation to assess if it’s the right place for them. They explore goals and help plan the stay. Post-visit, guests can arrange a follow-up call to help maintain their goals.”

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Spa Spotlight Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand

Above from left: A guest enjoys a traditional Thai massage ritual; executive chef Mohan Rawat prepares nutritious and delicious cuisine to enhance the gut microbiome

consciousness, ritual, and spiritual life for millennia. Inspired by ancient yogic and Vedic wisdom, and the Gurukula tradition of lived spiritual learning, the 8, 11 or 15-night programme encourages guests to work with the natural rhythms of clarity, activation, release and renewal. The programme integrates sacred rituals, elemental practices, intuitive guidance, meditation and ancient healing traditions to restore harmony across body, mind and spirit. Food as medicine Good nutrition is a cornerstone of every stay. While some people may choose the detox menu in the restaurant, nothing is strictly off limits. At Soma Restaurant, Amrita Café and the Alchemy Tea Lounge, there is no calorie counting, but each and every meal, including the à la carte menu, is healthy and nutritious. Coffee is available on request, but it’s rarely selected. “We tell people that there is no guilty eating. Our idea is to inspire you to eat 30 different vegetables 102

in a week. Here, it’s possible to do it in a day,” says Kumar. “Our aim is to inspire people to go back home and make healthy choices, which you can if you are conscious and aware.” Meals are also designed to enhance the gut microbiome. Breakfast is an incredible buffet of fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, detox shots, juices, coconut yoghurt, kefir, plant milks, seed, vegetable and gluten-free breads, detox jams and nut butters. Eggs can be ordered if extra protein is required. Both lunch and dinner are a delight with super nutritious meals, inspired by a plant diet and drawing on Thai cooking styles to ensure guests are satiated and nourished. Meat and fish also appear on the menu but are absent from the detox menu. Curated retreat partnerships Kamalaya continues to draw clients back year after year, with a repeat guest rate of 46 per cent. The majority are from the UK, followed by continental Europe, the US, Asia and Australia. They range from stressed CEOs to mothers and daughters, couples, older family groups and a large proportion of solo travellers. Guests could be seeking a new spiritual path, aiming to resolve physical pain, improving gut health or embracing change for the future. www.europeanspamagazine.com

Spa Spotlight Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand

Delivering world-class wellness programming We ask Bimo Ningthoujam, director of wellness at Kamalaya, how her team works to guide guests through the resort’s unique customised holistic programming What makes the wellness offering at Kamalaya unique? It’s not only the place or the people, but what we offer our guests and how it’s delivered. Our combination of different modalities – from meditation and mentoring to treatments, movement and healthy food – is unique. No one part is more important than the other. It’s about balance – balancing the body, mind and emotions. How do you deliver this integrated approach? At Kamalaya, it’s not just the mentors, the naturopaths or the therapists who make the difference, it’s all of us together – a large team all working with the same mission for each guest’s journey. We share information carefully across reception, therapists, even housekeeping – everybody is on board, so our guests feel truly looked after. I think that’s what holds the guests. It makes them feel like everybody knows about their specific situation.

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Programmes are designed to support the guest journey, whatever their goals are. Every treatment in the programme is included to support and achieve these goals. It’s the whole journey that people want to make here. We want to be able to facilitate that as much as possible. How do you encourage guests to immerse themselves in the Kamalaya experience? Coming to Kamalaya was a new experience for me. I came from a luxury spa background, and when I arrived here I really learned about what makes a true healing process – not just talking about it, but actually going through it. Sometimes people are in a rush because they think, ‘Oh, it’s good for you’, so they want to do everything. I tell them: ‘You don’t need to rush through treatments. You need to take your time and pace yourself, even with wellness’. I tell them to consider what really resonates with their goals. We encourage an inner journey for guests through deep meditation, kriya yoga and breathwork, anything that focuses on awareness within.

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Spa Spotlight Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary, Thailand Right: yoga and meditation classes encourage guests to follow an inward journey for overall wellbeing

The Kamalaya brand has begun extending its global reach through a series of partnerships with leading wellness destinations. It partnered with Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire on its first ever UK retreat in 2025. This brought together renowned practitioners from Kamalaya and featured a range of holistic treatments from both properties. Meals were co-created by the properties to align with Kamalaya’s cooking methods. “Our concept is to partner with a like-minded property in one of our feeder markets and create a synergistic retreat by taking Kamalaya to them,” says Kumar. “We want to give people a taste of what we offer and also ignite that interest from the new guests.” It’s a concept that is expanding. Kamalaya held its first Australian retreat experience at the renowned Aurora Spa & Bathhouse and returned to Estelle Manor in 2026. The team is currently working with Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland on a similar retreat.

INSIDE THE PROJECT Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary

Interior furnishings Custom designed and built by

www.kamalaya.com

Thai carpenters

n Spa size 3,700sqm

Treatment beds Designed by Kamalaya and made locally

n G eneral manager and group director of wellness

Fitness equipment Octane Fitness, Life Fitness, Concept2

development Gopal Kumar n Director of wellness Bimo Ningthoujam n Head naturopath Kate Upton n Spa architect Robert Powell

Spa software Reservation Assistant Neurofeedback with EEG BrainAssistant and ANT Neuro

WELLNESS AREAS

n Landscape architect Victor Choong

Thermal facilities Two common pools using ozone

n Treatment rooms 48

technology, two steam rooms and three infrared saunas,

n Staff 372

two cold plunge pools

P RO DU C T PARTN ERS

Other wellness facilities Reformer studio, functional fitness studio, Yantra Hall (meditation and movement

Product partners Kamalaya oils, The Organic Pharmacy,

classes) yoga pavilion, Prana Shala (small yoga and

Pedi:Mani:Cure Studio by Bastien Gonzalez

holistic classes), Longevity House and Cognitive House

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organized by

www.wellnesshospitalityconference.it

patron partner

Spa Specifier Wellness Trends

WellnessTrends EUROPEAN SPA SPOTLIGHTS THE LATEST GLOBAL TRENDS AND NEWS Ed i te d by M a r k S m i t h

ON THE COVER

Six Senses unveils the Way of a Woman retreat series

he Yin Way Retreat – the Way of a Woman is a new Six Senses series, created to support women’s wellbeing through every life stage. Debuting at Six Senses Kanuhura in the Maldives and then Six Senses Kyoto in Japan, it blends modern science with ancient wisdom to encourage realignment of the female nervous system and emotional equilibrium. The retreat applies the Yin principles of rest, receptivity, reflection and cyclical living. Each personalised journey is informed by an integrated wellness screening on arrival, with Sleep with Six Senses and Eat with Six Senses principles woven throughout. The high-tech, high-touch approach features a combination of lymphatic drainage for hormonal balance and heat therapies for detoxification, with treatments to support cortisol regulation, circadian rhythms, stress

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management and sleep health. A sense of place will be instilled with property-specific programming. The retreats are led by integrative health expert Hati S Malinova, Six Senses’ wellness director. Malinova’s background spans medical and functional health, counselling psychology and Traditional Chinese Medicine, as well as 12 years at a female health hospital in Shanghai. www.sixsenses.com

“We wanted to create the space and rhythm for women to awaken their senses, supported by clinical insight and personal consultation.” Hati S Malinova Wellness director, Six Senses

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Spa Specifier Wellness Trends

Floating in a soundscape As spas strive to offer ever more immersive sound experiences, we explore the growing demand for floating sound baths and what opportunities they present for wellness

mmersive sound experiences are in huge demand across the wellness space, from studios and retreats to spas and destination properties. This year has seen a boom in floating sound baths, where guests are guided into a state of calm while floating on water, either on an air bed or semi-immersed on a floatation device. The premise is simple; a sound expert leads a guided sound bath, while guests are softly moved around the water on the float aids. It taps into the growing desire for communal wellness experiences, brings all of the benefits of sound therapy and connects with the trend for blue-mind experiences too. The spa pool is the most popular choice for these immersive sessions, which work equally well indoors or outdoors if weather permits. “Sound baths are incredibly popular and a regular addition in our studio wellness programme at Calcot Spa. We’re very aware of the growing popularity of floating experiences,” says Francesca Rowland, spa director at the Calcot Collection. “There is

Clockwise from above: an Urmi Sound session at Westin London City, UK; a Good Vibes Sound Bath at Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis California, US; guests are immersed in sound at Amrit Ocean Resort in Florida, US

something uniquely restorative about being weightless, gently drifting on water and allowing yourself to simply surrender to the experience.” The team has recently introduced floating sound sessions led by Jessica Sloyan at Slo-Yin (see p114). A rising tide of wellbeing These sessions are more than a novel way to attract guests and satisfy members’ desires for new and exciting programming – they offer a range of mental and physical benefits. “Sound baths combine two deeply restorative practices, buoyancy and sound therapy, into one multi-sensory experience. The sensation of weightlessness quiets the 108

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Spa Specifier Wellness Trends

nervous system almost instantly,” explains Kelly Garcia, managing partner, operations and experience at Good Vibes Sound Bath, which has run sessions at Azure Palm Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa Oasis in California, US. Laura Dodd, founder of The Yoga Class, who has run classes with Urmi Sound by Joseph Evling-Taylor at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in London, says: “Floating sound baths are one of the fastest ways to downshift the nervous system. Water removes gravitational load from the body and sound travels through it more efficiently than air, so the experience isn’t just heard, it’s felt.” Unique and private immersion Heavenly Spa at the Westin London City also works with Urmi Sound to offer unique pool sessions. “Floating sound baths are popular as they feel both deeply relaxing and highly experiential,” says Lyudmyla Nagirnyak, director of spa. “Guests are seeking treatments that go beyond the traditional spa menu to offer a sense of emotional reset and sensory immersion.” Taking it to another level of personalisation, these are also being offered as bookable private options. Frequency Float at the Ritz-Carlton Spa, Chicago, US, has introduced a private floating sound bath experience designed for groups of up to 18 guests.

Above: Jessica Sloyan performs a Slo Yin sound immersion at Calcot Spa

A professional approach Working with a specialist practitioner is vital to achieve the correct setup and safety standards to deliver a truly transformative experience. “The setup needs to be very intentional because the equipment is fundamental to both the comfort and safety of the experience,” explains Neera Barot, co-founder of Amrit Ocean Resort in Florida, US. “The floating mattresses need to provide sufficient support and stability while still allowing guests to experience that sense of weightlessness.” A thorough guest briefing is required, as well as supervision, safe entry and exit from the pool, and the correct temperature, hygiene and guest spacing. Mobility and contraindications such as pregnancy, certain medical conditions and anxiety around water or sensitivity to sound should also be on the operational check-list. “In terms of equipment and setup, the most important considerations for spas are comfort, stability and the overall guest journey,” says Nagirnyak. “Guests need to feel secure and supported in the water in order to surrender fully into the experience.”

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Spa Specifier Wellness Trends

Transformation and revival is on the menu at REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort Bali Responding to the growing need for deeper restoration, REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort Bali has introduced Soul Revival. The transformative five-day retreat, led by spiritual guide and trauma-informed practitioner Vlada de Sousa, aims to guide Florence Wong guests through a profound journey of release, renewal and return. Integrating evidence-informed therapeutic modalities with ancient spiritual wisdom, it includes guided energy healing, somatic release, meditation, breathwork, chakra activation, Balinese purification ceremonies and one-on-one counselling sessions. “Life inevitably brings moments of transition, loss and inner searching that call for more than physical restoration alone,” says REVĪVŌ CEO Florence Wong. “Soul Revival was created to add a dimension of emotional and spiritual renewal that works in concert with everything we already offer.” www.revivoresorts.com

Four Seasons Yachts launches the transatlantic Lanserhof Reset journey Billed as a transformative transatlantic wellness residency, the Lanserhof Reset has been developed by Four Seasons Yachts and Lanserhof to restore mind, body and soul while at sea. Personalised consultations and expert-led, longevity-focused Eva-Maria Hasenauer wellness experiences are provided during the yacht’s ocean journey. “The transatlantic crossing creates an extraordinary environment to step away from everyday life, focus on personal health and experience how targeted changes can support greater wellbeing and longevity,” says Eva-Maria Hasenauer, chief commercial officer of Lanserhof Group An initial consultation is followed by a tailored eight-day wellness programme that includes one-on-one consultations, holistic treatments, fitness and breathwork sessions, sound baths and nutrition inspired by Lanserhof’s signature Energy Cuisine. www.lanserhof.com | www.fourseasonsyachts.com

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Spa Specifier Wellness Trends

Freediving retreats build confidence World-record holder hosts programmes for all ages at Minor Hotel properties in the Maldives

ffering exciting ways to explore the Baa Atoll Unesco Biosphere Reserve, 11-time freediving world-record holder Hanli Prinsloo staged two successful retreats at Minor Hotels resorts in the Maldives in September. A playful, introductory Family Freediving Retreat at Avani+ Fares Maldives was followed by a four-night Into the Blue retreat at NH Collection Maldives Reethi. The second, more immersive programme was aimed at both beginners and experienced freedivers. At Avani+ Fares, Prinsloo introduced parents and children to freediving through breathwork, floating, snorkelling, gentle duck dives and underwater games. With a focus not on depth or competition, but on helping families build confidence in the water, the athlete and marine conservationist helped participants to understand their

“There is something about being suspended, weightless, with your own breath as the only soundtrack, that resets people in a unique way.” Hanli Prinsloo Freediver

breathing and experience the ocean together at a comfortable pace. The Family Freediving Retreat opened the resort’s annual Ocean Aware Month programme, dedicated to marine discovery and conservation. Activities included coral conservation and planting workshops, underwater photography and videography sessions, beach clean-ups and PADI speciality training courses. The four-night Into the Blue retreat at NH Collection Maldives Reethi was open to guests aged 16 and above. The schedule included yoga, meditation and guided breathing as well as snorkelling on the house reef, rope freediving and drift diving. Beginners and experienced freedivers trained together while progressing at their own pace. www.minorhotels.com www.europeanspamagazine.com

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Lou Calen pairs gong baths with Gregorian-chanting nuns in Provence In the heart of Provence in France, hotel Lou Calen is to host a three-day sound therapy and qigong retreat led by sound therapist Erycka Savarin de Marestan and qigong teacher Florence Peltier (pictured left). Guests will be served vegetarian Aurore Chainet cuisine during their stay, which will include gong baths, sound yoga, conscious breathing, breathwork for emotional release, art therapy, gentle qigong and river walks. At the centre of the programme, the group will walk up to the Saint-Joseph monastery to experience the Sisters performing Gregorian chants. “It’s a genuine reset – more of a gentle unravelling than a shock to the system,” says Aurore Chainet, director of marketing and sales at Lou Calen. “Sound is such a beautiful driver of energy – our bodies are mostly water, so those vibrations move through us and help release what we’re holding on to.” www.loucalen.com

An opportunity to slow down and restore at Kohler Waters Spa, Scotland The Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St Andrews is launching an overnight wellness reset with yoga, meditation, spa therapies and cold-water sea dips. “The retreat has been specially designed to give guests the opportunity to slow down, Jelena Adahovska reconnect with themselves and create space for calm as we head into the winter months,” says Jelena Adahovska, spa manager at Kohler Waters Spa at the Old Course Hotel. Led by yoga and meditation teacher Rosanne Nieboer (pictured right), the retreat is centred on embodiment and connection. Through gentle movement, breathing and awareness, she invites guests to tune into the natural rhythms and energies within themselves. The one-night experience includes yoga and meditation sessions, an evening sound bath, an optional sunrise sea dip, a 50-minute personalised treatment and full access to the spa. www.oldcoursehotel.co.uk 112

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credit photo: The Lake Como Edition

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Mastering the art of sound We talk to Jessica Sloyan, founder of the UK Academy of Sound & Therapeutic Arts, about the importance of upskilling therapists to meet demand for a multiplicity of modalities

he UK Academy of Sound and Therapeutic Arts (UKASTA) is a private training provider offering accredited education in sound therapy and mindfulness. Founded by wellness operations and training expert Jessica Sloyan, UKASTA aims to bridge the gap in structured education for spa therapists, yoga teachers and wellness practitioners who want to professionally integrate sound therapy into modern hospitality and retreat settings. We find out what benefits a focus on sound training can bring to spa businesses. Why did you launch UKASTA? I’ve seen growing demand for experiences beyond the traditional treatment menu, from sound and mindfulness to breathwork, conscious movement, nature-based practices and retreats. Yet operators don’t always have these skills within their teams or an easy way to identify appropriately trained practitioners. I have also experienced how fragmented the training landscape can be. So I saw an opportunity to bridge those worlds through education grounded in professional standards, safe practice and the realities of today’s spa and wellness environment. What does UKASTA offer spa therapists? We prepare practitioners for the way wellness is evolving, bringing therapeutic arts together within one professional learning environment and combining practical skills with ethics, safety, scope of practice and confident facilitation. What qualifications do students receive? Our programmes provide certification within individual disciplines, including CMA-accredited Sound Therapy training and Mindfulness Teacher Certification. Further programmes are in development. www.ukasta-academy.co.uk 114

“We prepare practitioners for the way wellness is evolving, bringing therapeutic arts together within one professional learning environment.” Jessica Sloyan Founder, UK Academy of Sound and Therapeutic Arts

Developing therapists’ skills “Wellness is moving beyond the treatment

room into immersive programming and retreats. This evolution needs to be matched by robust education and professional frameworks. “Retreats particularly highlight this need, as they require an understanding of ethics, boundaries, group dynamics, safety and responsible facilitation. “Our vision is to create progressive pathways rather than stand-alone courses. Ultimately, I want UKASTA practitioners to be skilled, ethical and confident in creating exceptional wellness experiences.”

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You can’t go to a spa if you have cancer? Nonsense! Touch for Cancer Care connects individuals facing cancer with safe, supportive touch therapies provided by SATCC-approved professionals. Your cancer journey doesn’t have to be completely touch-free. Discover wellness experiences designed exclusively for you. https://touchforcancer.co.uk Learn more: touchforcancer.co.uk

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SpaStyle SHOWCASING ST YLISH EQUIPMENT AND LEADING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR SPA E d i te d by We nd y G o l l e d g e

EDITOR’S PICK

Bon Charge launches guided red light wellness experiences Using the brand’s own products to explore movement, breathwork and recovery, the Bon Charge Method aims to help restore body signals that the stimulation of modern life can hide. 360 Sculpt is designed around the brand’s Red Light Panel, while Sculpt & Stretch utilises its Red Light Therapy Blanket. Sound Bath Meditation is a guided recovery experience using Bon Charge’s Infrared PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) Mat.

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Created in collaboration with personal trainer Flik Swan – pictured on the Infrared PEMF Mat – the Method is an immersive, guided wellness experience, with instruction available on YouTube. “From artificial light exposure to screen-heavy lifestyles, the biological signals that regulate sleep, recovery and energy are constantly being disrupted,” says Andy Mant, co-founder and CEO of Bon Charge. “Our recovery technologies help people reconnect

with the rhythms their body already understands, at a time when wellness technologies are in high demand. Red-light and PEMF technology are currently highly sought after by those seeking to aid recovery. “Our Global Wellness Trend Report 2026 surveyed 2,000 Britons and found that 25 per cent of adults have used red-light therapy, rising to over half of 18-34-year-olds,” says Mant.

https://uk.boncharge.com

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LifeWellTech AKT Group As treatment beds increasingly becoming a platform for multiple experiences, AKT Group has created a new ecosystem of human-centred technologies that connect therapist and guests. LifeWellTech’s components are designed to integrate into AKT Group’s existing treatment beds or operate as a standalone system within spas. They can deliver touchless tech including Red Heat, offering continuous, even warmth from the cervical area to the feet. In addition, Red Pulse technology allows therapists to set evolving patterns of warmth across four independently controlled body areas. Sensi delivers four distinct neuro-fragrances to Reset, Focus, Ground or Align, and there is the option of a fifth signature scent. BodySound turns the bed into a resonant sound surface using integrated transducer technology, creating an enveloping acoustic experience. HeartGate combines HRV assessment and biofeedback to inform personalised breathwork, which is guided by gentle haptic cues. www.aktgroup.io

Reformer Pilates studio DESIGN FOCUS

Sparcstudio and Technogym

Exclusive Collection’s Pennyhill Park Hotel in Surrey is to unveil the UK’s largest hotel-based reformer Pilates studio this autumn. Designed by Sparcstudio, the space showcases Technogym Reform, the Italian brand’s debut Pilates product. “Pennyhill’s new reformer studio is Beverley Bayes set in an airy loft space overlooking the spa gardens, with a muted, calming palette,” says Sparcstudio’s creative director, Beverley Bayes. “An Autex acoustic ceiling brings softness and a sense of intimacy to the light-filled studio, which is both quietly luxurious and deeply connected to its surroundings.” Technogym Reform offers quick adjustments for fluid transitions between exercises and optimal body control during training. The headrest, shoulder pads, foot bar and springs are designed for easy adjustment and the foot bar has a patent-pending quick-tilting system, with four positions. www.technogym.com | www.sparcstudio.co.uk

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The Stream Myndstream Therapists typically have to match music to treatment lengths as part of resetting rooms between guests. But an update to Myndstream’s B2B streaming platform for spas allows teams to plan ahead efficiently. The Stream allows spa teams to schedule a full day, week or multiple months of music in advance, including Freddie Moross for the gaps between treatments. “Every therapist should be able to personalise every treatment, not just the ones where they have time to do it manually. That’s precisely what this update is built for, alongside giving spa teams back time and keeping them in control of the treatment experience,” says Myndstream founder Freddie Moross. To ensure playback during treatments is uninterrupted, Myndstream also downloads scheduled soundscapes to the device 24 hours ahead, so playback continues even if the internet drops out. www.myndstream.com

Mind Oasis Rituals Best known for its retail wellbeing products, Rituals has debuted the Mind Oasis B2B concept, a touchless technology developed for hotels, gyms and wellness destinations. The ritual combines guided relaxation experiences focused on deep mental calmness with a warm waterbed experience for full-body recovery. Mind Oasis B2B is designed as one complete journey. It includes Brain Massage with light, immersive 4D sound and synchronised haptic vibration, while Hydro Massage uses the power of gentle, dry-floating hydro-jets combined with red-light therapy to create a sensation of weightlessness and to release muscular tension. “For spas, Mind Oasis B2B introduces a new category of wellbeing, one that is immersive, science-backed and highly scalable,” says Couro Seck, head of concept and training, beauty tech at Rituals. “It feels both innovative and relevant for today’s guests and allows spas to elevate their offering beyond traditional relaxation, into real recovery.” www.rituals.com

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D E S I G N I N N O VAT I O N

Sauna solutions that boost team education and product longevity The production team at Sauna360 has been innovating to achieve greater durablity Sauna life expectancy is greatly reduced by inadequate maintenance and cleaning, so to educate spa teams, Sauna360 has developed an approved maintenance guide for all the spas it works with. The brand has more than 40 years of Jeff Le Clos experience in the spa and wellness sector, and while its latest innovation may go unseen by the average spa user, it will have a significant impact for operators. “We have been adapting our commercial construction to improve the longevity of saunas in high-traffic settings,” says Jeff Le Clos, senior commercial manager at Sauna360 UK. “In particular, we’ve worked on our sauna bench

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construction. The aim was to enhance bench design and structure to minimise damage and improve sauna life expectancy.” The aluminium bench frame has an air gap between the frame and the bench boards, allowing the timber to dry more effectively between uses and reducing moisture-related deterioration. Aluminium was selected for its durability in the sauna environment. It has lower heat conductivity compared with other metals, and is very lightweight, which helps to extend bench life and improve long-term performance. Sustainability is also crucial factor in modern spas and Sauna360’s ECO-SAUNA initiative helps lower energy usage, while still offering exceptional thermal experiences. It includes the ECO-button, which keeps the electric sauna heater in standby – a simple way to halve the power output of a sauna during quiet periods. www.sauna360uk.com

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www.sauna360uk.com SAUNA 360 PROJECTS. THE LEADING SAUNA, STEAM AND WELLNESS PROFESSIONALS, PROVIDING EXPERT DESIGN CONSULTATION, MANUFACTURING AND INSTALLATIONS IN THE UK. NO.3, FELBRIDGE CENTRE, IMBERHORNE LANE, EAST GRINSTEAD, WEST SUSSEX, RH19 1XP, UK TEL: +44 (0) 1342 300 555

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Design we love... Hydrothermal innovations setting new standards Desert Sauna

Aquardens Thermal Park, Italy

TRENDING: CEREMONIAL SAUNAS

At 180sqm, the world’s largest theatre sauna was envisioned by architect and spa designer Claudia Taiani and brought to life in collaboration with world-class suppliers. The Desert Sauna at Aquardens Thermal Park in Verona (pictured right and inset), aims to move Claudia Taiani beyond the conventional Nordic sauna model to engage guests’ senses and emotions in a welcoming wellness environment. Able to accommodate up to 300 guests at once, the sauna has hemlock and ayous wood finishes, with heaters by Starpool. High-tech ceremonies feature a panoramic LED wall from Tecno Service Verdari with immersive audio by Elettrosound and show lighting by Arena Luci, which also installed the control room. Scenographic water effects come courtesy of Forme d’acqua. The Desert Oasis Lounge The project is enhanced by a relaxation area in earthy tones and shades of red. The Desert Oasis completes the sauna journey and evokes the atmosphere of a desert landscape. “Within a structure of this scale, the primary challenge was ensuring perfectly uniform heat distribution,” Taiani says. “Airflow dynamics and the power output of the large central heaters had to be carefully calculated to avoid temperature variations across the six seating levels.” The Desert Sauna has already played host to the Aufguss WM World Championship and Aquardens has partnered with the Verona Arena Foundation to bring grand opera to the spa, with performances set to the music of Verdi and Bizet.

S TA N D - A L O N E S H O W E R

www.aquardens.it

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Super Sauna Nokken Combining a ten-person panoramic sauna, dual stainless-steel cold plunges that chill to 3°C and external showers, Nokken’s new Super Sauna brings contrast-therapy rituals into a single structure. The first Super Sauna was installed at Silverlake Estate in Dorset, UK. It arrives on site as a single, fully built unit that is craned onto pre-prepared foundation points. This modular approach cuts project timelines by up to 50 per cent against traditional construction. “Adding wellness features has traditionally meant a capital project – planning, groundworks, construction and disruption,” says Nokken co-founder, James Van Tromp. “Super Sauna offers a complete, hotel-grade wellness facility that lands on site, connects up and can be earning within a day.” www.nokken.com

MODULAR SAUNA DESIGN

Pluvia

MXN Design Excellent for wild-swimming or outdoor bathing areas, the new architectural shower room, Pluvia by MXN Design, is fully insulated, heated and double glazed. An 80-litre hot water supply, twin shower experiences and integrated light and sound are combined in a compact 2.85m x 2m structure. Pluvia’s dark exterior opens into a warm, layered interior and a planted threshold, making a routine shower into a private moment that connects to the landscape. The unit can be individually adapted with colours, materials and interior detailing. “Pluvia brings the atmosphere of a beautifully finished interior into the landscape,” says Maximilian Stummer, director of MXN Design, which is based in Lancashire, UK. www.mxndesign.com

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Spa Specifier Spa Style

S N O W I N N O VAT I O N

Matteo Thun and TechnoAlpin Indoor use snow to shape identity Bella Vista Trafoi in Italy unveils its Fire and Ice zone with a SNOWSKY cool-down At Bella Vista Trafoi in South Tyrol, Italy (pictured), snow is more than part of the scenery – it is woven into the identity of the place, the history of the owners and now, into the hotel’s wellness concept. Olympic and world ski champion Gustav Thöni, Gustav Thöni & Matteo Thun grew up in Trafoi and Bella Vista is run by the sixth generation of the Thöni-Gander family, who have reimagined the hotel with renowned architect Matteo Thun. Part of the new wellness facilities is a Fire and Ice area, with SNOWSKY by TechnoAlpin Indoor producing real snow directly within the spa.

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Offering a snowfall experience in a comfortable, room-temperature environment, SNOWSKY’s gently descending real snow creates a sense of wonder and tranquility while cooling guests. “At the heart of Matteo Thun’s concept is the genius loci – the distinctive spirit of a place. In Trafoi, that means silence, openness and the immediate presence of the mountains,” says Stefan Gander, a key member of the owner family. “Rather than creating a spa detached from its setting, we wanted people to be able to switch off, feel at one with nature and forget everyday life. “We are snow people, in a destination deeply connected to winter, so bringing snow indoors with SNOWSKY felt less like adding a new feature and more like continuing the story of the place.” www.indoor.technoalpin.com | www.matteothun.com www.bella-vista.it

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SNOWROOM Where cooling becomes a sensory experience.

indoor.technoalpin.com www.indoor.technoalpin.com

Spa Specifier Spa Style

RedWave Plus wellsystem TRENDING TECHNOLOGY

A new way for spas to offer advanced full-body LED red light therapy comes in the form of the wellsystem RedWave Plus. Offering both red and near-infrared light therapy, RedWave Plus has more than 4,400 high-performance LEDs to deliver full-body light exposure across three wavelengths: 630nm, 660nm and 850nm. These light spectrums each target different tissue depths, helping to stimulate cellular activity across various levels. A typical 15-minute session supports skin rejuvenation, relaxation, sleep quality, energy production, physical performance and post-workout recovery, while also giving guests an overall sense of wellbeing. The short treatment time makes the system easy to integrate into busy spa and wellness environments, working well as a pre or post-treatment add-on. wellsystem RedWave Plus is engineered for intensive professional operation with an ergonomic, easy-to-clean surface, cooling interior air circulation and an intuitive control panel for straightforward operation. It is available in matt black and Scandinavian white. www.wellsystem.com

SAVA Sound Pod Tersa An immersive, full-body sound experience designed to support nervous system regulation, relaxation and recovery, the SAVA Sound Pod combines immersive spatial audio with low-frequency vibroacoustic waves. Designed to encourage a shift from the sympathetic fight-or-flight response towards the parasympathetic rest-and-digest state, SAVA supports rest, mental clarity and recovery, with sound journeys available in multiple session lengths. Each composition is created exclusively for the platform, combining proprietary music, spatial audio and precisely engineered vibration. Recently installed in Explora Journeys’ new spa aboard Explora III, the SAVA Sound Pod can be experienced as a standalone or therapist-led treatment. “We wanted to build an entirely new wellness experience that uses the power of music and sound to help people regulate their nervous system in a way that feels deeply immersive and restorative,” says Tersa’s founder and CEO, Ray Kelly. www.tersa.co

European Spa selects the best styles and equipment launches for spas. Contact: wendy.golledge@spapublishing.com

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