European Spa Magazine Autumn 2025

SET THE TONE

Prep, replenish and refine skin in one with the launch of Pro-Collagen Toning Mist.

The latest innovation in our award-winning Pro-Collagen franchise, this multi-targeted formula sees ELEMIS rationalising our toner portfolio to streamline and strengthen our offering.

Available in professional and retail formats, Pro-Collagen Toning Mist can be integrated seamlessly into both treatment and homecare routines.

PERFORMANCE-PROVEN INGREDIENTS

The ultra-fine, lightweight texture is infused with a blend of powerful ingredients. Marine Biotech Ferment works to visibly refine pores and rebalance sebum levels. Padina Pavonica helps to attract and lock in moisture for long-lasting radiance. Gluconolactone , a polyhydroxy acid, helps to smooth and refresh the skin’s surface.

Finished with our signature Rose and Mimosa aromatic, each spritz is designed to calm and rebalance both skin and senses. Echoing our commitment to sustainable practices as a B Corp, the bottle is fully recyclable.

Interested in partnering with ELEMIS? Scan here newbusiness@elemis.com

To find out more, contact newbusiness@elemis.com

Welcome

Powering up for autumn

Autumn always feels like a season of momentum – a time to harness fresh energy, sharpen focus and prepare for the busiest months of the year.

With this in mind, in this issue Mark Smith curates 19 of the best retail collections in our Festive Gift Guide 2025 to help you boost your Q4 performance (p28). Our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide: Touchless Technologies offers further inspiration for investors and operators looking to maximise therapist time and treatment room utilisation while providing unique guest experiences (p94).

Our cover star, the magnificent Stanglwirt bio-hotel in Austria, is a shining example of how true intention can transform the guest journey (p48). In London, we visit the Chancery Rosewood and talk to wellness director Magdy Abdelaty for an exclusive feature exploring the much-anticipated UK debut of Asaya spa, which is bringing a distinctive new approach to the capital (p16).

Elsewhere, we present five of the best new spas for autumn, including Verdala Wellness Hotel in Malta; Louma Farm and Retreat, UK; Kimpton Atlântico Algarve, Portugal; JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, Greece; and Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol, Spain (p82).

In business, our new series, The Big Question, explores how spas can support guests on weight-loss drugs (p108). We welcome Amy McDonald, who brings insight into the benefits for spas of delivering intergenerational wellness (p114). Also, I meet Daniele Cavalli – from the famed Cavalli fashion family – whose new venture Profumoir brings the spirit of haute couture into the world of wellness (p60).

As ever, European Spa is created with the intention to support your leadership journey. Nothing happens without teamwork, and I am proud of the way my team has brought this beautifully designed edition to life. I hope it offers you fresh ideas and useful insights to navigate a busy season ahead.

Sarah Camilleri Editorial director & publisher sarah.camilleri@spapublishing.com

Image Stanglwirt’s sport director Björn Schulz (right) delivers boxing exercises as part of the Lift, Love, Laugh retreat (p48)

Meet the team

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

Sarah Camilleri

Editorial director & publisher

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 Global Wellness Institute’s Living Well From Within coalition.

Zoë Williamson

Media sales

The newest addition to our team, our media sales manager Zoë has over 15 years of experience in spa and hospitality, including leadership roles at ESPA and Hydrafacial. Zoe brings deep industry knowledge to help you plan high-impact campaigns and build your brand’s authority through our publications.

Mark

Smith

Deputy editor

The founder of UK meditation brand Kalm Horizons, Mark has contributed spa and wellness content to European Spa for over a decade. In this issue he reports on Asaya spa at the Chancery Rosewood, London as well as five of the best European spas. He also has Christmas retail all wrapped up in our Festive Gift Guide 2025.

Expert contributors

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

▪️ Amy McDonald

Under a Tree

▪️ Sarah Dalton

Jumeirah

▪️ Dr Katharina Sandtner

Lanserhof Lans

▪️ Stephanie J. Moore

Goodwood Wellbeing Health Retreats

▪️ Dr Werner Zancolo

Vivamayr Maria Wörth

▪️ Stephen Price

SP&Co

Wendy

Golledge

News editor

Always up to date with the latest spa trends, property openings and appointments, in this issue Wendy curates advice from leading manufacturers of touchless technology. This expert Buyers’ Guide spotlights innovative products along with guidance on how to boost spa treatment room utilisation and therapist efficiency.

On the cover Stanglwirt in Austria

Editorial director & publisher

Sarah Camilleri sarah.camilleri@spapublishing.com

Deputy editor Mark Smith mark.smith@spapublishing.com

News editor Wendy Golledge wendy.golledge@spapublishing.com

Media sales Zoe Williamson zoe.williamson@spapublishing.com

Art director Richard Page richard@spapublishing.com

Production and online editor David Fagan david.fagan@spapublishing.com

Production and proofing Angela Sharpe angela@spapublishing.com

Accounts manager Julie Jones accounts@spapublishing.com

Spa Publishing Ltd

Registered in England. Company No. 6293825

SPA SPOTLIGHT

FIVE OF THE BEST SPAS THIS AUTUMN

• Verdala Wellness Hotel, Malta

• Louma Farm & Retreat, UK

• Kimpton Atlântico Algarve, Portugal

• JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, Greece

• Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol, Spain

16 ASAYA SPA AT THE CHANCERY ROSEWOOD, LONDON, UK

European Spa meets the team at the much anticipated new luxury hotel to discuss the London debut of its Asaya concept and discover what it means for luxury wellness in the capital

48 ON THE COVER

LOVE LIFE, FIND JOY AT STANGLWIRT, AUSTRIA

Sarah Camilleri checks into Austria’s legendary bio-hotel to experience the launch of a new Lift, Love, Laugh retreat by celebrity trainer Ramona Braganza

BUSINESS INSIGHT

28 EUROPEAN SPA’S FESTIVE GIFT GUIDE 2025

We highlight 19 of the most beautiful retail collections and offer advice on maximising seasonal revenue from some of the leading spa brands

60 PROFUMOIR: THE ART OF LIVING European Spa heads to Italy to meet Daniele Cavalli for a bespoke sensorial journey into perfume creation and personal wellbeing

108 THE BIG QUESTION: CAN SPAS SUPPORT GUESTS USING WEIGHT-LOSS DRUGS?

With more people seeking treatment around their use of weight-loss drugs, five wellbeing experts tell us how spas can cater to their specific needs

114 BRIDGING THE GENERATIONS

Amy McDonald, founder of Under a Tree wellness consultancy, explores how creating intergenerational wellness experiences will help meet future demand

SPAS TO WATCH

ORGANIC SKINCARE FROM THE SEA

HARVESTING THE SKIN-NOURISHING BENEFITS OF ORGANIC, SUSTAINABLY SOURCED SEAWEED TO CREATE HIGHLY EFFECTIVE SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCTS.

enquiry@voya.ie www.voya.ie @voyabeauty

enquiry@voya.ie www.voya.ie

xx BRANDS TO WATCH

14 MOODS: A NEW VISION FOR MASSAGE

We ask the wellbeing brand’s co-founder, Daniel Smith, about the UK debut of its clinically proven aromatherapy blends

26 EVIDENS DE BEAUTÉ: CRAFTING SIGNATURE SPA JOURNEYS

How the pioneering French beauty brand specialises in designing unique and personalised wellness experiences

46 ESPA: WELLNESS ON THE WAVES

The iconic spa brand is sailing its wellness offer out to sea on board Scenic Eclipse and with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

58 INLIGHT BEAUTY: INSPIRED BY NATURE

We speak to general manager Jila Field about the brand’s heritage, its new treatment innovations and what makes it a great spa partner

66 BIOLOGIQUE RECHERCHE: OXYGENATION FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

The new VIP O2 range from Biologique Recherche promises to restore moisture, quality and radiance for dull, tired skin

80 OSKIA: THE ALCHEMY OF REST

Georgie Cleeve, co-founder of Oskia, writes about the importance of restorative sleep and the brand’s Circadian-Syncing Deep Sleep Treatment

69 ON THE MENU

Our round-up of the best product launches and treatment innovations opens with a new Mind & Scalp Treatment from Spa L’Occitane. We also highlight six of the best serum concentrates for spa guests

119 WELLNESS TRENDS

Tuning into the ever evolving world of wellness, we report on a new Blue Zone-inspired longevity programme at Verdura Resort in Italy... and more

129 SPA STYLE

A selection of the latest stylish equipment and leading-edge technology, including a striking wall installation by Gongmatic and a collaboration between Lemi Group and Irish spa brand Voya designed around the Harmony Lounge treatment bed

BUYERS’ GUIDE: TOUCHLESS TECHNOLOGY 94

We highlight innovative touchless technologies to give you a trusted guide for future investment, including Metawell, Capsix, Iyashi Dôme, Self, Starpool, Aquaform, Hyperice, Float Spa, JK Group, Art of Cryo and Prism

SKIN LONGEVITY, BOTTLED.

FROM TREND TO SCIENCE –A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO SKIN NURTURING

More than a serum, a night-concentrate that steps into epigenetics and DNA repair, leveraging the power of the NAD+ pathway.

Designed to rebuild, plump & even out dry and mature skinespecially during perimenopause and menopause.

VOTE FOR SWISSLINE: BEST PERFORMANCE-LED SPA PRODUCT BRAND BEST MEDI-SPA PRODUCT BRAND

THE HOME OF GLOBAL SPA INTELLIGENCE

EUROPEAN SPA PLATINUM

RESOURCE HANDBOOK

The ultimate resource for spa business success, our handbook showcases the super brands of spa and wellness and latest industry trends and thought leadership

A new vision for massage

We ask Daniel Smith, co-founder of Moods, about the debut of the wellbeing brand’s clinically proven aromatherapy blends at the Chancery Rosewood, London

Modern wellbeing brand

Moods debuted its MoodsPro concept at the Chancery Rosewood, London, when its Asaya spa officially opened in September. Available exclusively in the sumptuous spa, MoodsPro anchors the massage treatment menu, providing an exclusive series of elevated therapies for luxury wellness travellers.

Designed to ‘redefine massage within

the hospitality space’, Moods brings a high-performance, clinically informed approach to bodywork. At the heart of the brand is the NeuroFusion Treatment Massage – a results-driven 60 or 90-minute protocol that targets the muscular and nervous systems through advanced muscular techniques and potent aromatic body oils.

“MoodsPro was designed to re-energise the category – combining

rigorous science, sensorial immersion, performance-based techniques and retail integration into one unified treatment experience,” says Daniel Smith, co-founder of Moods.

AI-powered touch therapy

Each treatment, designed in partnership with mind-body expert Katie Light, begins with a structured diagnosis, assessing mood, physical

condition and sensory profile.

Using knowledge from the brand’s AI powered diagnostic tool, one of eight neuro-aromatic blends – tested in the largest clinical trial in aromatherapy and the only one ever done on aromatherapy blends – is selected to drive a specific therapeutic response.

These are applied using a precise combination of deep-tissue, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, effleurage and pressure-point work – ensuring physiological and psychological impact.

To complement touch and scent therapy, each treatment is underlaid with a bespoke audio soundscape. This concept is embedded with healing hertz waves specific to the guest’s chosen Moods blend.

“In

an industry where massage often comprises 90 per cent of the treatment menu but rarely drives meaningful retail or long-term transformation, we saw an opportunity to raise the bar.”

Daniel Smith Co-founder, Moods

MoodsPro to take home

MoodsPro is led by Karen Dolby, the brand’s director of spa and education, who has spearheaded the creation of signature treatments.

“MoodsPro provides a direct extension of the treatment,” she explains. “Each guest has the option to continue the effects of their massage by taking home the same effective blend in the form of our MoodRollers – a portable, pulse-point format designed for everyday use to boost mood, focus, energy and emotional balance.

“Our ambition with MoodsPro is

to extend the therapeutic value of the treatment far beyond the spa environment. We give guests access to clinically validated neuro-aromatic blends in a daily, portable format.

This ensures the benefits of their protocol are not just momentary but can become part of an ongoing wellness practice.”

BE INSPIRED...

To find out more about how MoodsPro can enhance your treatment offer, visit: www.moods.co.uk

Above from left: MoodRollers are a unique retail offering; MoodsPro enhances the benefits of spa treatments; Moods co-founder Daniel Smith

Asaya arrives at the Chancery Rosewood

European Spa meets the team at the Chancery Rosewood in London to discuss the debut of its Asaya concept and what it means for luxury wellness in the capital

REPORT BY MARK SMITH

One of the most eagerly awaited openings of 2025, the Chancery Rosewood in London has unveiled its Asaya wellness concept in the heart of Mayfair. In a commanding position overlooking Grosvenor Square, the grade II-listed building was originally designed by Eero Saarinen in the 1960s. Its conversion from a former US Embassy to a luxury hotel by its owner, Qatari Diar Europe, has involved an extensive multi-million-pound restoration project by architect Sir David Chipperfield. The transformation includes 144 suites as well as eight restaurants and bars designed by interior designer Joseph Dirand.

The hotel’s Asaya spa has elevated London’s wellness offering, placing guest wellbeing at the heart of a concept layered with beautiful design by

New York-based Yabu Pushelberg. The renowned design team has previously worked on spa projects at Four Seasons Kuwait, Fairmont Century Plaza in Los Angeles and the Londoner, UK.

This London launch marks a period of rapid expansion for Rosewood Hotels and Resorts. The company manages a global collection of 37 unique luxury hotels, resorts and residences in 22 countries.

The Chancery is the group’s second property in the UK capital and is one of six locations to open this year. It has another 27 global projects in the pipeline including in Milan, Venice, Rome and Greece, which are all scheduled to open in 2026.

Rosewood Hotels & Resorts is one of four hospitality brands under the Rosewood Hotel Group umbrella. Privately owned by Chow Tai Fook

Spa Spotlight Asaya at the Chancery Rosewood, UK

The dawn of Asaya

The Chancery Rosewood marks the London debut of the brand’s Asaya spa concept, offering guests the opportunity to focus on wellness goals, irrespective of life stage, with a personalised transformative journey on which every aspect is thoughtfully curated to align with their needs.

“With the debut of Asaya spa at the Chancery Rosewood, we bring to London a new benchmark for integrative wellbeing by uniting advanced therapies and holistic practices with a mindful design,” says Emmanuel Arroyo, senior director wellness, global – Rosewood Hotels and Resorts. “Through exclusive collaborations in healing modalities and fitness, this exciting addition strengthens Rosewood’s

Clockwise from right: the spa has extensive hydrothermal facilities; the reception area is a cocooning space with a contemporary, luxurious ambiance Enterprises, the group includes New World Hotels & Resorts; the integrated wellbeing concept Asaya; and Carlyle & Co, a modern private members club. Its combined hotel portfolio consists of 54 properties across 24 countries.

“With the debut of Asaya at the Chancery Rosewood, we bring to London a new benchmark for integrative wellbeing by uniting advanced therapies and holistic practices with a mindful design.”

Emmanuel Arroyo Senior director wellness, global – Rosewood Hotels and Resorts

global commitment to transformative wellbeing and redefines the future of urban wellness.”

The Asaya spa features a 25-metre indoor pool, an extensive hydrothermal area, five spacious treatment rooms, an impressive menu of wellness therapies and a beautiful spa boutique.

Asaya allows the wellness team to truly personalise programming for hotel guests, members (limited to just 50 in total) and a local London clientele.

Wellness director Magdy Abdelaty has overseen the opening, bringing 24 years of experience in the spa, fitness and wellness industries to the role.

Having held leadership positions in London, Cairo and the Maldives, Abdelaty has worked with global hospitality companies including Fairmont, Corinthia and Four Seasons, as well as Joali Being. He joined the Chancery Rosewood from his role as director of spa and wellness for Peninsula London.

“Asaya offers a holistic and restorative experience that focuses on the inner and outer balance of the human and wellbeing in general,” says Abdelaty.

“It’s based on a concept for guests to connect the mind and body and soul together. This is what Asaya is truly about.”

Making a grand entrance

Guests enter Asaya through its elegant street-facing boutique. Beautifully designed, featuring custom patterned stone floors, wood-clad walls and brass accents, the store is designed as a welcoming retail space and reception area, flooded with natural daylight. There are impressive display cabinets, marble stations with sinks for guests to enjoy immersive product testing, designer fashion options and a large fridge with wellness drinks.

The boutique and spa introduces Never Go Alone, eight brand-new bodycare products developed in

English design inspiration

“Rosewood hotels have a distinctly residential feel, so we approached Asaya Spa as if it was an extension of someone’s fine home.

"Rather than typical walkways and corridors leading to stark treatment rooms, we wanted the spa to feel gracious – like a classic English home reimagined with contemporary elegance and a clear sense of materiality.

"When we think of London, we think of panelled walls, patterned floors and a quiet sense of history that informs the way interiors are lived in. That’s the spirit we brought into the Asaya Spa design.”

Pushelberg and

Glenn

George Yabu Founders, Yabu Pushelberg

the UK and featuring botanicals grown and distilled on a Somerset apothecary farm. The brand is found throughout the hotel as amenities as well as in the spa and retail area.

Stepping from a lift in the subterranean spa, guests are met with blue upholstered walls and curved panels in the arrival and lounge areas, which soften the acoustics and create a cocooning yet spacious, contemporary feel. Recessed lighting and low seating add to the calm ambiance.

The treatment and member check-in desk is large and low-level, creating a seamless flow that maximises the sense of privacy and exclusivity.

“We created three journeys, so if you’re coming to the fitness zone or to the pool, there is a specific direction, and when you have a treatment and you are accessing the changing rooms there is no crossover,” says Abdelaty.

“Asaya Spa offers a holistic and restorative experience that focuses on the inner and outer balance of the human and wellbeing in general.”

Fitness and recovery

The spa's five wood-panelled treatment rooms are some of the largest in London and come complete with marble bathrooms, showers and changing spaces.

The pool, sauna, steam room and hydrotherapy zone feature a continuous mosaic marble tiled floor that ties the space to the pool. There is also a movement studio and a state-of-the-art gym with the first reformer Pilates equipment from Technogym as well as the brand’s new Artis Luxury range.

From a fitness perspective the team has partnered with celebrity personal trainer Matt Roberts to launch Asaya Active by Matt Roberts. Guests and members can undertake personalised training sessions focusing on core and back strength, as well as stamina circuits.

There are options for fitness consultations with a Styku 3D body scan, functional movement screening, fitness and health assessments including blood screening and dietary analysis with a registered dietician. One-on-one Pilates training and physiotherapy are also available.

Magdy Abdelaty Wellness director, the Chancery Rosewood

From above: Cheshire Wellness supplied the spa's saunas; the Asaya brand offers guests the opportunity to focus on their specific wellness goals

Exceptional treatments designed by EviDenS de Beauté

We talk to Emily Veness‑Budin, wellness, spa and training director at EviDenS de Beauté about the brand's partnership with Asaya spa at the Chancery Rosewood

How did you develop the spa’s treatment rituals?

The signature treatments for the Chancery Rosewood were developed in close collaboration with Magdy Abdelaty. From the outset, our goal was to create a collection of treatments that would reflect a strong sense of place, artistry and cultural nuance, anchored in the luxurious setting of the Asaya Spa.

How are these tailored to Asaya? We wanted these experiences to go beyond skincare and massage, becoming immersive rituals that embody art, culture, intention and excellence. We included EviDenS de Beauté’s traditional Japanese and French techniques, such as the Kobido-inspired Japanese lifting massage, Tsubo acupressure and French effleurage. For the bespoke signature journeys we went a step further, incorporating

sensorial tools like sculpting instruments to support lymphatic drainage, pressure point activation and relaxation, as well as hot stones.

What was the aim of the bespoke journeys?

Our vision was to create treatments that are both results-driven and sensorially immersive; facials that deliver visible results; and body massages that transport the guest.

For the Chancery Rosewood, we curated the EviDenS de Beauté Signature Journeys – designed to take the guess work out of treatment selection. Rather than choosing a combination themselves, guests are guided through a thoughtfully designed sequence that seamlessly integrates face and body treatments. These journeys range from two to three hours, with optional add-ons to enhance and personalise the experience even further. www.evidensdebeaute.com

Spa Spotlight Asaya at the Chancery Rosewood, UK

Clinical skincare

The Asaya spa is also home to the Taktouk Clinic at the Chancery Rosewood, which brings the renowned expertise of Dr Wassim Taktouk, a leading figure in cosmetic dermatology. Treatments focus on delivering an entirely bespoke experience that combines cutting-edge skincare technology with a holistic approach to aesthetics.

“The Chancery Rosewood brings together Dr Taktouk’s expert dermatology, SkinCeuticals’ scientific skincare, the most innovative technology in the market and the holistic wellness philosophy of Asaya to provide an exceptional new experience in London,” says Abdelaty.

Ultherapy Prime will provide a personalised facial lift through real-time visualisation, which allows the practitioner to see exactly where skin needs to be treated. The clinic will also offer LPG Cellu M6 Infinity, a machine for advanced body and facial

Clockwise from top: marble bathrooms feature in some of the largest treatment rooms in London; the subterannean hydrothermal zone; a wood panelled couples' treatment room

treatments, and Thermage FLX, providing non-invasive skin rejuvenation and tightening. There is also an extensive injectables treatment menu that includes anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers and collagen bio stimulator. Juläine, Profhilo, Mesotherapy and a Korean Glacé Facial feature on the menu alongside IV drips for jet lag and muscle recovery.

Mood and beauty

On the main treatment menu, guests will find a unique and highly personalised offering from two leading brands; the elegant skincare of EviDenS de Beauté, and Moods, a modern wellbeing brand with

Spa Spotlight Asaya at the Chancery Rosewood, UK

“Our vision was to create more than just a massage. We wanted experiences that were purposeful, contemporary and transformative.”

Daniel Smith Co founder, Moods

Moods makes global debut at Asaya Spa

Daniel Smith, co founder of Moods, explains how the brand set about creating transformative treatments with purpose for the brand’s debut in a spa setting

How did Moods’ signature treatments come about?

We explored spa concepts around the world before developing something that felt truly distinctive. The goal was to marry our clinically proven Mood blends with a highly considered treatment application. To achieve this, I collaborated with Katie Light, a specialist practitioner I had worked with previously, to design protocols that combine exceptional body techniques with the powers of aromatherapy. The result is a harmonised treatment where touch and scent work in synergy to deliver something both deeply effective and uniquely memorable.

What was the vision for the rituals?

contemporary and transformative. Each treatment is designed around a Mood blend, with breathwork, sound frequency, advanced bodywork and modern recovery tools layered on to heighten the therapeutic effect. It is about giving guests a treatment that feels indulgent but also leaves them with a lasting shift in mood and wellbeing.

What benefits do they offer guests?

Our vision was to create more than just a massage. We wanted experiences that were purposeful,

Every treatment has a distinct outcome, whether that is easing stress, lifting energy, restoring balance or creating deep calm. The wider benefit is consistency. Guests leave with a sense of renewal and with a personalised Mood they can continue at home through our retail line. It ensures the spa experience is not just a one-off indulgence but a catalyst for longer-term wellbeing. www.moods.co.uk

Spa Spotlight Asaya at the Chancery Rosewood, UK

from top: as well as Asaya Active by Matt Roberts there is a gym equipped with the new Artis Luxury range from Technogym; the 25m swimming pool

a range of clinically proven aromatherapy blends, which makes its professional debut at the hotel.

“When choosing our partners we wanted something exclusive, but at the same time, we want something scientifically driven with a holistic approach to wellness,” says Abdelaty.

EviDenS de Beauté’s signature face and body treatments offer a sensorial experience that engages the senses for ultimate relaxation. Blending French cosmetic technology with traditional Japanese massage techniques, treatments provide a contouring effect, boosting circulation and resulting in skin that is smooth, lifted and radiant.

The massage menu has been developed by Moods with its NeuroFusion approach, a sophisticated blend of advanced massage techniques and clinically proven neuro-aromatics designed to restore the body and recalibrate the mind. The advanced treatment rituals employ Therabody technology, such as the Theragun, Recovery Air Jet boots and Theracup.

INSIDE THE PROJECT

Asaya Spa at the Chancery Rosewood www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/the-chancery-rosewood

n Owner Qatari Diar Europe

n General manager Michael Bonsor

n Wellness director Magdy Abdelaty

DESIGN & CONSULTANCY

Spa size 1,119sqm | Treatment rooms Five | Spa team 30

Architect Sir David Chipperfield

Hotel interior design Joseph Dirand

Spa interior design Yabu Pushelberg

PRODUCT PARTNERS

EviDenS de Beauté, Moods, SkinCeuticals, Costa Brazil, Therabody, Never Go Alone, Perfumer H, The Nue Co, Fiora, Juläine, Profhilo

EQUIPMENT

Machines LPG Cellu M6 Infinity, Thermage FLX, Styku 3D

Body Scanner, Ultherapy Prime

Drinks brands Juice HQ, Omoss, Fashion brands Erdem, Orlebar Brown

Pools, steam and sauna Cheshire Wellness

Treatment beds Lemi Group

Fitness equipment Technogym

Ice bath Brass Monkey

Uniforms Jalin

Robes and linen Rivolta Carmignani

Hot stones Elo Thermotherapy

Heated loungers Fabio Alemanno Design

Spa software Book4Time

Massage guns Therabody

Right

www.lemispa.com info@lemigroup.it

Brands

Crafting signature spa journeys

EviDenS de Beauté specialises in designing unique signature journeys and personalised wellness experiences, thoughtfully tailored to each destination

Renowned for its harmonious fusion of Japanese skincare science and French sensoriality, EviDenS de Beauté works to redefine excellence through its deeply personalised, haute skincare approach.

Far beyond a product line, the brand is a curator of luxurious, place-based rituals, signature protocols and bespoke journeys in partnership with the world’s most exceptional spas. With a vision rooted in craftsmanship and cultural sensitivity, EviDenS de Beauté’s tailored experiences reflect the spirit of a location.

“Our mission is to help our spa partners tell a story through treatments – one that captures their identity and elevates their offering beyond expectations,” says Emily Veness-Budin, wellness, spa and training director at EviDenS de Beauté. “We work hand in hand with them to design something original that doesn’t just follow trends but sets them – grounded in deep respect for each destination’s culture and clientele.”

A sophisticated partnership Talise Spa at Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai sought an experience that married timeless healing rituals with state-of-the-art skincare, all delivered with effortless sophistication. The response from EviDenS de Beauté

Right: a customised EviDenS de Beauté facial with Oxylight at the Asaya Spa at Rosewood Doha

European

Spa presents 19 of the best festive retail collections to entice spa guests and improve your seasonal revenue

EDITED BY MARK SMITH

hristmas is a vital time for any spa. With over 40 per cent of retail sales occurring during Q4, it is the busiest and most profitable time of the year. It also offers a chance for businesses to showcase their brand offerings and treatment expertise through workshops, themed events and special promotions.

Spa managers need to offer more reasons for guests to visit, ensuring that people are spending their money in-spa and not online. Targeted merchandising in spa boutiques is essential for drawing customers in to purchase.

Smart marketing campaigns, supported by brand partners, begin in earnest from October onwards with events scheduled throughout the festive period. These should be interactive, fun but also educational, creating real connections with your spa team and the guests on your list.

Voucher sales represent an important opportunity to maximise revenue as they can drive footfall during the quieter months of January and February. These can be sold both in spas, by email marketing and on your website. Social media also plays a vital role in every aspect of the communications push – from selling vouchers to highlighting in-store events and showcasing gift sets.

European Spa showcases 19 of the best festive gift ideas for 2025 with smart insights from industry experts on how to maximise sales during this time.

Voya’s holiday collection

Grounded in beauty, ritual, and a deep connection to nature, Voya’s holiday collection is inspired by the transformative power of organic seaweed and enriched by the rich heritage of Celtic storytelling.

Inviting you on a sensory journey through tradition and renewal, the brand has collaborated with Irish illustrator Tara O’Brien, whose modern designs add depth, character and cultural resonance to each gift set. Expect a spiced luxury candle and reed diffuser alongside sets to calm and rejuvenate. Body care duo, Land of Resilience, unites Feel the Heat Body Warming Gel with Serenergise Rejuvenating Body Oil. Aromatherapy and handcare sets round-up the brand’s inspiring offering. www.voya.ie

ESPA’s festive gift collection brings harmonising scents and holistic wellbeing gifts together to create a haven of tranquillity in the home. From timeless skincare rituals to luxury treatments, everyone can experience a spa-like retreat for mind, body and skin.

The iconic Wellness Advent Calendar returns for 2025 with a selection of luxury options including invigorating cleansers, nourishing creams and rich essential oils. Each treat has been included to offer inner and outer harmony.

The gift collection also features targeted skincare sets for men’s skin and hydration, as well as elegant candles with frankincense and myrrh or ginger, clove and sweet orange, as well as hand and bodycare. www.espaskincare.com

ESPA counts down to Christmas

Handmade gifts from Ground Wellbeing

Inviting people to embrace the art of gifting with intention, Ground Wellbeing’s festive collection has been created to support the rhythms of daily life, offering moments of stillness, care and renewal.

The brand’s inclusive ethos ensures there’s a gift for every life stage, body, and journey: from hormone support and sleep rituals to cancer care and sensory wellness for children.

All gifts are handmade in Ireland using 100 per cent natural, vegan and cruelty-free ingredients. Sets for sleep include Silent Night and To All a Goodnight. The Hand Care Ritual and Winter Skin Heroes bring comfort and hydration in abundance. www.groundwellbeing.com

“Stocking

fillers and last-minute impulse buys at Christmas hold a unique charm. These small treasures add an element of surprise to Christmas, evoking a sense of joy and nostalgia.”

Peigin Crowley Founder, Ground Wellbeing

Inlight Beauty favourites for 2025

Inlight Beauty’s Christmas collection for this year includes four beautifully curated gift sets featuring new designs inspired by celestial elements, drawn from the sun and lunar cycles that guide the brand’s production process.

Radiance Duo Collection is a selfcare ritual containing Face Oil, Amethyst Gua Sha and a protocol guide. The Good Night’s Sleep Collection combines Bath Soak, Body Butter, Night Balm and Foot Balm for restful slumber.

The Ultimate Facial Collection brings together Inlight’s award winning facial skincare essentials, while the Ultimate Body Collection features the brand’s favourites to

Spanish inspiration by Natura Bissé

Focusing on high-performance skincare, Natura Bissé has curated a limited-edition selection of festive gifts for the season. Inspired by the Modernisme of Barcelona, the brand’s home city, this year’s designs are infused with a sense of vibrant colour and light.

The Intelligent Beauty Mix offers an age-defying selection for great skin with Diamond Extreme Rich Cream, Diamond Extreme Eye and Diamond Lip Booster. The Bare Skin Essentials set offers skincare with an effortless glow combining Diamond Cocoon Sheer Cream Medium and Mini Sheer Eye.

The Firming Recipe collection presents the Essential Shock Collection with Night Renewal and two exclusive gifts – Cream Tube and Eye & Lip Treatment – making it the ideal duo for deeply nourished, firm, and revitalised skin. www.naturabisse.com

“Consumer trends continue to show that gifting meaningful, wellbeing focused gifts will be high on the agenda for shoppers this Christmas season. Spas are uniquely positioned to support the consumer like no other.” Greg Davis Managing director, Aromatherapy Associates

Aromatherapy Associates provides the gift of wellbeing

Embracing the power of renewal, Aromatherapy Associates presents deeply relaxing blends and invigorating wellbeing rituals for Christmas 2025.

Each gift is designed to nurture both body and mind, offering added value and featuring the brand’s best-selling products.

Deep Relax Bath & Shower Oil and Forest Therapy Bath & Shower Oil return in 9ml stocking fillers. De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil and De-Stress Muscle Shower Oil join together to create the Muscle Ease Heroes set.

The Ultimate Selfcare Heroes collection unites five blends from the calming Deep Relax to the energising Revive Morning, plus De-Stress Mind, De-Stress Muscle, and Forest Therapy in a range of products for bath and body.

www.aromatherapyassociates.com

Mediterranean

moments from TempleSpa

TempleSpa’s gift collection for 2025 has been inspired by the brand’s favourite ingredients from the Mediterranean. Featuring hand-illustrated interpretations on the outer boxes, inside celebrates everything from heady citrus scents to herbal infusions.

With carefully curated gifts for results-driven facials, indulgent bathing, mood-boosting home comforts and even a touch of glamour for the party season, this year’s collection is a showcase of the very best the brand has to offer.

The Truffle Brilliance set offers the brand’s premier range of products in one place. This year’s advent calendar is a journey for the senses including 13 full sizes and six limited edition options. www.templespa.com

“Make it easy to purchase by organising gifts to help guests easily find the perfect present: a table for stocking fillers, a section for bath lovers, and an area for skincare enthusiasts. Provide testers for each product.” Gemma Dobson Group spa business manager, TempleSpa

Elemis delivers festive joy

The Elemis Christmas collection has been curated to celebrate moments of festive wonder and bring joy. From transformative textures to uplifting aromatics that transport the senses, the brand has selected a range of its best-selling, award-winning products for its gift sets in 2025.

The new British Wilderness Candle combines rose, black hemp and patchouli for a heady, cocooning scent for the home.

A Magic of Pro-Collagen set features a complete skincare routine in a box, while there are also sets for men’s grooming, travel and body care. Targeted gifts focus on skin prepping

“Spa partners should use the festive period to really focus on making noise around gift voucher and New Year treatment package bookings to drive incremental revenue for the final and first quarter.” Victoria Doyle Elsey Senior head of UK spa and salon, Elemis

[comfort zone] Hidden Cities

Drawing inspiration from some of the world’s most beautiful cities, [comfort zone] has curated a collection of contemporary skincare and wellness gift sets. Each takes its cue from the designated city and brings together the brand’s iconic products and best-sellers.

The boxes also feature pro tips on how to use the skincare, which aim to enhance the customer experience.

The Timeless City: Venice showcases the Sublime Skin range with formulas to plump, tone and firm – targeting lines, dullness and dehydration. The City of Lanterns: Hoi An offers the efficacious Luminant range. The City of Serenity: Ubud promotes relaxation with the Serenity line. www.comfortzoneskin.com

Radiant gifts from Image Skincare

Featuring clinically proven, professional-grade formulations, Image Skincare has curated a gift collection of its hero and best-selling products for Christmas 2025.

Unwrap Radiance is a lip and eye set with Image MD restoring eye masks and Ormedic balancing lip enhancement complex. Hyaluronic Glow is the perfect stocking filler, featuring Ageless total pure hyaluronic filler. Presented in a limited-edition gold bag this gift includes Ormedic balancing facial cleanser, Iluma intense brightening serum and Vital C hydrating repair crème. Opulent Radiance also features with Vital C facial cleanser and anti-ageing serum with Daily Prevention moisturiser. www.imageskincare.co.uk

“Merchandising skincare gifting is about connection and storytelling. Presenting curated self-care rituals inspires clients to invest in meaningful, results-driven gifts.”

Donna King Marketing manager, Seabody

Seabody offers the Escape Edit

Seabody’s limited-edition seasonal collection is designed to help guests find a moment of indulgent selfcare through three luxurious skincare rituals. These targeted treatments offer a sensory-led spa-like experience.

The Renewal includes Glycan Enrich Moisturiser, Aquasurge Day Serum and a fabric sleep mask. The Awakening combines Hydrogel Mask Cleanser, Glycan Enrich Moisturiser and Aquasurge Day Serum. The Overnight features Overnight Elixir Serum, Pentabrite Eye Serum and Glycan Enrich Moisturiser.

Drawing on the brand’s proprietary marine bioactive complex sourced from sustainably harvested Irish seaweed, each promises visible

Natural Spa Factory curates a holistic gifting collection

This season, Natural Spa Factory offers a range of curated sets designed with elegance and style to take the spa experience home. Crafted to resonate far beyond the festive season, the collection blends minimalist design, clean lines and a soothing neutral palette.

Each set arrives ready to display with no need for additional wrapping, making them a seamless addition to any spa retail environment. With versatile appeal, they remain relevant year-round, ensuring consistent retail success.

Expect massage and scent candles, bath rituals and a hand duo to cleanse and hydrate. The Sleep Ritual presents Sleep Pulse Point Oil, Black Adamo Candle, Silky Teal Sleep Eye Mask and

“Gift wrapping adds that extra touch of luxury and attention to detail. Adding some branding, and a discrete call-to-action to entice the recipient to your spa. This could be a special offer on their first treatment booked.” Victoria Dello Ioio UK country manager, Sothys

Sothys supplies a seasonal boost

Celebrating the festive season with a selection of skin-boosting gifts, Sothys brings together its iconic and best-selling products in curated sets of gifts.

The Noctuelle Night gift set includes Renovative Night Cream and Resurfacing Micro Capsules, while a DX Glow set features Radiance Defence Cream and Radiance Defence Serum. Secrets de Sothys combines the limited reissue Beautifying Body Cream and Premium Youth Cream in a set.

The brand’s iconic Advent Calendar this year boasts 24 products from across its entire skincare collection. Expect a selection of masks, ampoules, cleanser and scrubs with anti-ageing creams, cosmeceuticals, body products

A spa ritual that awakens the senses and transforms your skin.

DISCOVER THE NEW SPERIENCE RANGE

The latest spa collection from Germaine de Capuccini, created to elevate holistic wellbeing. This exclusive spa line features expertly crafted facial and body treatments designed for the world’s most luxurious spas, alongside at-home products to help create your own personal ritual of relaxation and renewal.

https://www.germainedecapuccini.com/uk_en/contact-form www.germainedecapuccini.com/uk_en/contact-form

Tea & Tonic blends perfect gifts

Tea & Tonic, an emerging British, luxury wellness brand, has unveiled a festive range of adaptogen blends designed to naturally power sleep, skin, energy, mood and mind.

From thoughtful stocking fillers to indulgent gift sets, Tea & Tonic’s collection offers options for tea aficionados, skincare fans and those who are health conscious.

Cleanse & Glow Facial Edit is a skincare duo featuring the Heart Cleansing Balm and Saving Grace Rich Face Oil to leave skin soft and supple.

“It’s important to have gifts available for all budgets too, from stocking fillers to special gifts. Highlight these in key areas of the spa, including promotional materials in reception and relaxation areas.” Leon Trayling Co-founder, ishga

ishga sails the Twilight Tides

Taking inspiration from the moments between sunset and nightfall, ishga has curated a selection of Twilight Tides gift sets for Christmas.

The ishga 12-Day Advent Calendar features the brand’s award-winning, certified organic range in the brand’s first advent calendar. The limited-edition 12-drawer gift set features full-size products and is a complete immersion in the skincare collection.

Twilight Ritual Body Gift Set pairs Hebridean Salt Scrub and Muscle Recovery Oil and Dawn Ritual Face Gift Set combines Active Cleansing Lotion and Anti-oxidant Marine Cream.

Germaine de Capuccini takes guests into the Golden Hours

Specially curated for the festive season, Germaine de Capuccini’s Golden Hours collection brings together the brand’s bestsellers and most iconic products into must-have bundles, featuring products and ranges used across its spa treatments.

Presented in a sleek velvet branded navy toiletry bag, each collection offers options for different skin types/conditions.

Timexpert Radiance C+ brightens, protects, and revitalises the skin with fast-acting vitamin C. Timexpert Hydraluronic visibly smoothes leaving shin glowing. Timexpert Wrink-Less improves wrinkles and suppleness. Timexpert Lift_IN provides immediate lifting. Excel Therapy O2 protects against pollution, oxygenates the skin and brightens the complexion. www.germainedecapuccini.com

“To attract new customers this year get creative with limited edition festive themed spa days, providing an ideal gift for those looking for an experience gift. Create a social media campaign around the experience.” Julie McCann UK national sales manager, Germaine de Capuccini

QMS Medicosmetics provides Festive Season Essentials

To celebrate radiant skin, QMS Medicosmetics has produced the limited-edition Festive Season Essentials to regenerate, smooth and protect skin.

Age Prevent Antioxidant Cream smoothes and prevents the formation of wrinkles while hydrating and supporting the

Cleanse System Gentle Cleansing Milk effectively removes impurities, sebum and makeup residues. It promotes a fresh complexion without stripping the skin’s natural oils.

Hydrating Toner is enriched with witch hazel water, D-Panthenol and glycerin works to re-establish the skin’s equilibrium and accelerate cellular regeneration.

Core System Collagen + Exfoliant Set Medium is a unique three-part skincare system, developed to reduce the signs of ageing and loss of skin elasticity. https://uk.qmsmedicosmetics.com

Scentered gifts are ready ‘To Go’

Scentered has released a To Go gift collection of six wellbeing experiences in a tin. Sustainably packaged and fully customisable, each set pairs a signature aromatherapy balm with a thoughtful wellbeing tool, such as 20-minute meditation candles, mindfulness puzzles, affirmation cards, a silk eye mask sleep set, or the complete Discovery Set of six blends: Sleep, De-stress, Love, Focus, Escape, and Balance. Portable, affordable, and easy to display, they enhance treatment offerings, encourage upselling,

“Within our industry we have a unique opportunity to offer the gift of time. Time away from our digital devices and time in a wellbeing space provides so much more than instant gratification.”

Katherine Pye General manager, Wildsmith

Wildsmith has gifting wrapped up with the Mistletoe Collection

Featuring a curated edit of Wildsmith’s bestselling hand and body care, these beautiful gifts are presented in limited-edition recyclable mistletoe wrap.

Fragranced with linden, Roman chamomile and cedarwood, the Wildsmith Hand & Body Duo is gently cleansing and hydrating. Presented in a hand-crafted ceramic vessel from one of the last remaining potteries in Stoke-on-Trent, the English Ceramic Handwash is a thoughtful and precious gift. The brand’s Hydrating Hand Lotion is also presented in this ceramic vessel.

Nourishing Body Butter has rose geranium, chamomile and lavender to soothe skin and senses, while mineral-rich bath salts with linden, chamomile and cedarwood soothe the body and calm the mind.

www.wildsmithskin.com

Wellness on the waves

Iconic spa brand ESPA is sailing its wellness offer out to sea on board the Discovery yacht Scenic Eclipse and now also in partnership with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Recognised worldwide as a leading wellness brand, ESPA is continuing to develop its signature holistic spa offering at sea. The brand now features in the spa aboard the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Luminara, as well as in the Senses Spa offered to guests sailing on the luxury yacht Scenic Eclipse.

“As ESPA continues to expand its presence at sea, we’ve proudly partnered with both Scenic Eclipse and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection to offer unrivalled wellness journeys that

transcend the ordinary,” says ESPA’s head of brand, Gemma Bosanko.

“From luxury spa treatments to bespoke wellness experiences, we’ve worked hard to create floating spa sanctuaries, where every aspect of wellbeing is nurtured.”

A transformative wellness voyage

ESPA’s latest collaboration is with the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection aboard its brand-new Luminara ultra-luxury superyacht. A sanctuary of holistic wellness, Luminara’s spa offers curated ESPA experiences and treatments, from signature massages and facials to holistic therapies.

“This collaboration reflects our

World-leading spa partnerships

ESPA is globally renowned for creating luxurious UK-manufactured spa products and one-of-a-kind luxury spas. Founded in 1992, its global team has delivered more than 550 spas in 55 countries to date.

The brand combines the conceptualisation, development and management of five-star spas with natural products and treatments.

Key clients include ESPA Life Waldorf Astoria Lusail in Doha, Qatar; ESPA Riga Hotel in Latvia; the Ritz (Four Seasons) Lisbon, Portugal; and Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens, Greece.

ESPA offers its wellbeing services on Luminara, the third ship in the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Art of Wellness

ESPA’s signature Art of Wellness treatment encapsulates all that the brand stands for. The 90-minute transformative ritual, available on Ritz-Carlton yacht Collection’s Luminara, includes guided breathing and visualisation. A deeply therapeutic salt stone and rose quartz crystal massage, releases physical tension and relaxes the mind to bring about a state of bliss and encourage guests to embrace ‘the art of letting go’.

“Luminara is not just a yacht; it is a destination in itself,” Bosanko says. “We are enhancing the sense of place by highlighting the wellness traditions of Asia, adding treatments inspired by Korea, Japan, China, Vietnam and Thailand to the menu.”

Senses Spa on Scenic Eclipse

Also offering ESPA’s expertise is Scenic Eclipse, an ultra-luxe Discovery yacht with a 550sqm Senses Spa that includes a salt therapy lounge, sauna and steam rooms, outdoor vitality pools and a gym and exercise studio.

shared commitment – alongside the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection – to providing a truly transformative wellness journey that enhances every aspect of a voyage aboard Luminara,” says Bosanko.

Guests setting sail on Luminara can enjoy ESPA’s globally recognised signature treatments alongside specially designed wellness journeys inspired by and complimenting the yacht’s itineraries.

The yacht’s 228 guests can indulge in exclusive ESPA massages and facials, and a menu of alternative therapies including reflexology, Japanese shiatsu, Ayurvedic massage and Tibetan bowl sound healing.

“With world-class facilities, expert therapists and personalised rituals, we’re setting a new standard for relaxation and rejuvenation at sea within the Senses Spa on Scenic Eclipse,” says Bosanko.

To find out how ESPA’s products and services can support your spa, email: enquiries@espainternational.co.uk

Above and below: the 550sqm Senses Spa on board the ultra-luxe Discovery yacht Scenic Eclipse

Love life, find joy

European Spa checks in to Austria’s legendary Stanglwirt bio-resort to experience its new Lift, Love, Laugh retreat curated by LA-based celebrity trainer Ramona Braganza

REPORT BY SARAH CAMILLERI

Few destinations embody heritage and innovation quite like Stanglwirt, the celebrated wellness retreat set in the valley beneath the Wilder Kaiser mountains near Kitzbühel. Now in the hands of the 11th generation of the Hauser family, what began as an organic farm and guest house has flourished into one of Europe’s most distinctive wellness resorts. Stanglwirt blends an ecological vision, authentic hospitality and world-class spa facilities on an extraordinary scale, serving more than 90,000 overnight stays and welcoming 100,000 guests every year.

For Maria Hauser, who now leads the property with her sister Elisabeth and brother Johannes, the spirit of Stanglwirt lies in authenticity. “Stanglwirt is not just a hotel – it is a philosophy and way of life,” she explains. “What we offer here is not a marketing story. It is who we are and how we live every day. Everyone in our family, and our 360-strong team, works from the heart to welcome our guests.”

Tyrolean wellbeing

The scale and ambition of Stanglwirt’s bio-spa resort is breathtaking. Discreetly built under living roofs that meld into the landscape, its 12,000sqm wellness worlds invite guests of all ages to immerse themselves in experiences that celebrate the Tyrolean setting. Facilities are divided into distinct zones: families can enjoy the

Spa Spotlight Stanglwirt, Austria

3,100sqm water adventure world, complete with rock grottos, aquariums, whirlpools and play pools; younger children have their own 1,000sqm spa with a 120m water slide and even a pool cinema.

For those seeking tranquility, a 2,500sqm adults-only spa sanctuary is a haven of calm. It is home to Europe’s largest hotel saltwater pool, panoramic event saunas, a marble steam bath and cosy relaxation areas warmed by open fires. A fitness zone has state-of-the-art equipment from Life Fitness and Technogym, and every space is designed with magical views of the Wilder Kaiser mountains.

Lift, Love, Laugh with Ramona Braganza Stanglwirt’s new three-day retreat – Lift, Love, Laugh – was created by celebrity trainer Ramona Braganza along with Maria Hauser supported by the hotel's wellbeing experts.

Braganza has decades of elite fitness expertise and a Hollywood client list that includes the actors Halle Berry, Jessica Alba, Ryan Reynolds and Scarlett Johansson. Her widely appreciated 3-2-1 Method

“Lift, Love, Laugh is designed to help people feel grounded and like themselves again. They leave their roles behind when they stay with us and find a way to realign with their inner child.”

Maria Hauser

– three rounds of cardio, two of circuit training and one of core work – has become a go-to for busy actors on film sets, thanks to its time efficiency and great results.

“Top-level actors are very goal-oriented, just like business leaders,” Braganza notes. “They can lose weight and build strength in a month by combining 3-2-1 training with my nutrition programme.”

Drawing on the resort’s extensive fitness facilities, natural surroundings and significant team of wellbeing experts, Lift, Love, Laugh artfully blends

Below from left: views of the Wilder Kaiser mountains from one of the outdoor pools; Romana Braganza coaches a guest on the Lift, Love, Laugh retreat

high-energy sessions with the slower flow of yoga, meditation and mindful movement.

Daily choices matter

Braganza's programme aims to challenge the relentless pursuit of productivity that defines modern life. “Most people don't realise how their daily choices affect their long-term health. It is not about powering through the first 50 years and then breaking down,” she says. “It's not just about productivity; it's about wellbeing and balance.”

“Right now, we're so focused on making money and reaching peak performance that we're actually shortening our lifespan. Very productive people can't gear down,” she warns. “All the energy you expend in the first 50 years comes at a cost – once you hit 50, your body starts to slow down, and that's when it can't take the strain anymore.”

Lift, Love, Life with Ramona Braganza is designed to be very accessible for all attendees. “Our retreat guests still want to climb that mountain – but in a better way, with balance, rest and joy along the

From above: fun boxing classes with sports director Björn Schulz; the Hauser family are all involved in delivering excellence at Stanglwirt

way,” says Braganza, who delivers personal sessions, group workouts and an educational programme to inform and inspire guests on new approaches to nutrition, movement and daily habits.

Curated experiences and expertise

Braganza’s aim is that her retreat guests will leave with not just physical results, but a renewed sense of resilience, consistency and balance. “Ramona’s approach to exercise is so cool and effortless,” says Maria Hauser. “She teaches techniques and movements that truly relate to how we use our bodies in real life. Also, the retreat is designed to help people feel grounded and like themselves again. They leave their roles behind when they stay with us and find a way to realign with their inner child.”

The first Lift, Love, Laugh retreat included Afro Flow Yoga and Aqua Meditation with holistic coach Sharlene Perlinger, fun group boxing classes with sports director Björn Schulz and riding sessions with Stanglwirt’s Lipizzaner horses.

“Building a retreat is a team effort. I love the idea that wellness isn't about one person, but about collaboration,” says Hauser. “I believe in creating experiences that integrate multiple perspectives.”

Treatment perfection

“If you want to shorten your lifestyle, be super productive from zero to 50 without regard for your body. You can power through workouts, but you have to have the yin and the yang.”

Ramona Braganza Celebrity trainer

Stanglwirt’s extensive treatment menu includes Ayurvedic rituals, craniosacral therapy and Lomi Lomi Nui as well as thalassotherapy, advanced facials by Dr Barbara Sturm and structural bodywork including Rolfing with resident expert Sascha Bauer. Treatment rooms with sweeping views provide an inspiring backdrop for rituals as therapists blend technical excellence with heartfelt care.

The spa partners with an array of leading

Clockwise from left: the ‘golden staircase up to the spa; expert therapists deliver excellence and care; a double treatment room with views of the paddocks; a panoramic event sauna for aufguss ceremonies; Sharlene Perlinger performs an aqua meditation

Stanglwirt spa at a glance

n 12,000sqm wellness worlds across indoor and outdoor zones

n Europe’s largest hotel saltwater pool (210sqm, 38 °C)

n 3,100sqm family wellness area with rock saunas, grotto pools and whirlpools

n 1,000sqm children’s spa with 120m water slide and pool cinema

n Signature treatments: Ayurveda, Lomi Lomi Nui, craniosacral therapy, Rolfing, Dr Barbara Sturm facials, thalassotherapy

n Panoramic event sauna overlooking the natural bathing lake

n Wellbeing days and spa packages with organic dining

brands, including QMS Medicosmetics, Landsberg, Hydrafacial, Melissa Odabash, OPI, Kurland, Alpienne and Hipi Faible.

Stanglwirt has also developed its own cosmetic line – The Good Conscious (TGC) – created by Maria Hauser and Michaela Stieber harnessing the expertise of the spa team. Sustainability and skin health are central to the bespoke products, with facials tailored to address skin-ageing concerns and sensitivity, as well as men’s skin issues – all personalised to individual needs.

“It’s very important that people working here have the feeling that they can experience a lot with the guests and also improve their personal skills.”

Elisabeth Hauser-Benz

Equine therapy for connection

Stanglwirt’s renowned riding school is home to one of Austria’s largest privately owned stables of Lipizzaners, all bred on site. An indoor arena, visible through panoramic glass from the hotel entrance and bar, is one of the resort’s most striking features. Guests can watch training sessions with the Lipizzaners, whose intelligence and sensitivity have made them world-renowned for classic dressage. Stable manager Lisa Frimberger, an accomplished international rider, has spent over a decade developing programmes that combine classical training with equine wellbeing. “I want the horses to

From above: the famous Lipizzaner horses at Stanglwirt are cared for with the same dedication as the guests; exploring the mountains on an accessible hike

The power of Rolfing

Stanglwirt guests can experience the transformational effects of Rolfing with resident biomechanical therapist Sascha Bauer (pictured left).

Rolfing works on the body’s fascia – the connective tissue that influences posture, movement and wellbeing. Through precise hands-on techniques, Bauer releases tension, restores alignment and improves natural breathing and movement. Sessions are offered in 30, 60 and 90 minutes.

Beyond individual treatments, Bauer is collaborating with Stanglwirt’s equine team to pioneer programmes for people living with post-traumatic stress. Horses, he explains, are exceptional mirrors: their sensitivity offers profound insights that complement structural integration in powerful ways.

Guests often describe feeling as though they have a ‘new’ body – calmer, more relaxed, breathing freely and moving with ease.

be happy – not just with a healthy body, but with a healthy mind too,” she says.

Equine programmes on offer range from beginner lunging lessons and private dressage sessions to trail rides into the Wilder Kaiser mountains.

To build trust and empathy guests are introduced to the horses in a structured, supportive way, helping even nervous riders to relax. Working with biomechanical therapist Sascha Bauer, Frimberger has also pioneered programmes where horses act as mirrors for self-awareness. “The horse does not care about words or titles; it responds only to body language and energy. For many guests, this is an eye-opening experience,” she explains.

Like their human counterparts, the horses receive holistic therapies including osteopathy, craniosacral treatments and carefully designed ground exercises, which Frimberger calls “Pilates for horses”. Her own recovery from a serious injury has deepened her empathy with the animals. “I know what it is like to work in pain – I never want that for them,” she says.

Delivering excellence

Elisabeth Hauser-Benz, sister of Maria, leads HR for Stanglwirt’s 360 employees – more than 200 of whom live in seven staff lodges. A dedicated horsewoman who oversees the resort’s stables, her approach to both parts of the business combines

empathy and discipline: “It’s not about work-life balance. It should be that you feel really well at work and also at home,” says Hauser-Benz. “It’s very important that people working here have the feeling that they can experience a lot with the guests and also improve their personal skills.”

Staff development is central to developing a flexible and content team. “We have our own staff academy where people can train in many skills including management and leadership,” Hauser-Benz explains. “People can switch within departments. They can be a riding instructor in the day and in service in the evening. We had a chef who switched to working with cows – and he loved it!

“This flexibility keeps work fresh for the team, building loyalty and supporting long-term retention. Here, it doesn’t count what role you play or which lifestyle you live. It’s about being yourself.”

This philosophy also shapes the guest experience. Staff are encouraged to meet guests “on the same level” and to embrace the joy of hospitality. “We are always working on moments to make people happy – where do you find that in other jobs?” she asks. Recruitment remains a challenge, but Hauser-Benz believes motivation is key. “Nowadays, with younger people, it’s really important to give them a reason why they are doing this – motivation is everything.”

n Owner Balthasar Hauser

n Key management Magdalena Hauser, Maria Hauser, Elisabeth Hauser-Benz, Johannes Hauser, Trixi Moser, Daniel Campbell, Richard Hauser

n Spa manager Julia Ressler

n Sports director Björn Schulz

The Good Conscious, Dr Barbara Strum, QMS Medicosmetics, Landsberg, Hydrafacial, Melissa Odabash, OPI, Kurland, Alpienne, Hipi Faible

Soul, vision and the future

Stanglwirt’s story began with Maria’s father, the celebrated hotelier Balthasar Hauser, who in the 1970s transformed the family farm with a restaurant that grew into a five-star destination. He became a pioneer of eco-conscious hospitality, using reclaimed and local materials and natural building techniques long before sustainability was a buzzword.

“Our father created a hotel rooted in sustainable principles. For him, it was logical that everything had to be organic. In the Seventies, when everyone was building with concrete and cold materials, he was out salvaging old farmhouse wood. He said, ‘This wood has a soul – it comes from here. This is our heritage and our way forward’,” says Maria.

That legacy continues through his children, who bring passion and purpose to every area of Stanglwirt’s evolution. Today, the resort remains a beacon of Tyrolean hospitality and wellbeing – one to watch on the global wellness map, radiating its unique blend of authenticity, sustainability and plenty of spa magic.

n Spa size 12,000sqm total wellness space

n Europe’s largest hotel saltwater pool (210sqm, 38°C)

n Fitness suppliers Technogym, Life Fitness

n Treatment rooms 15

n Family wellness area with rock saunas, grotto pools and whirlpools 3,100sqm

n Children’s spa with 120m water slide and pool cinema 1,000sqm

n Adults-only spa 2,500sqm

n Hotel team 360

Brands to Watch Inlight

Inspired by nature

We speak to Jila Field, general manager at Inlight Beauty, about the brand’s heritage, its new treatment innovations and what makes it a great spa partner

Inlight Beauty is a brand with heritage. Its medically founded concept is guided by quantum physics and inspired by nature, with each product handcrafted using ethically sourced botanicals to nourish the skin and respect the planet.

Certified organic by Cosmos and the Soil Association, the brand holds the Positive Luxury Butterfly Mark for sustainability and is also recognised by Cruelty Free International.

Every Inlight Beauty product features its signature Bio Lipophilic Matrix, a blend of organic cold-pressed plant oils and botanicals renowned for their high biochemical affinity to the skin. The brand’s tailored techniques include music, colours and tuning sounds to energise and ‘encode’ the oils.

“The efficacy of our production process has been scientifically proven to work, leaving a lasting glow,” says

This page from below: Inlight Beauty products are certified organic; the brand partners with the Amethyst Trust to ensure inclusivity

“Our passion lies in embracing the art of slow beauty – thoughtfully, intentionally at every stage.”

Jila Field General manager, Inlight Beauty

the brand’s general manager Jila Field. Organic cold-pressed plant oils are distilled on site in Cornwall and exposed to the sun for a full lunar cycle to harness their strength. “Our passion lies in embracing the art of slow beauty – thoughtfully, intentionally, at every stage,” says Field.

Partnering for inclusivity

Inlight Beauty partners with the Amethyst Trust to make its treatments accessible and inclusive. “We believe everyone, including those with serious illnesses, should be able to access the

benefits of massage,” explains Field. The brand’s partners receive detailed marketing support and treatment menus can be individually tailored. As well as complimentary training, a therapist wellbeing programme is part of the brand’s protocols.

Bringing light to treatments

At the heart of Inlight Beauty’s spa philosophy is light – a symbol of renewal, clarity and radiant wellbeing that guided its recent lauch of The Trilogy – a collection of immersive spa rituals created by the brand’s spa

consultant and trainer Sarah Hussey. “Sarah has woven together light, intuitive touch and Inlight Beauty skincare into a series of transformative treatment rituals inspired by the sun, moon and earth,” says Field. The Skinlight/Skinlight Lux Facial Treatment energises and uplifts; a Lightline Back of Body Treatment soothes and releases; while the Lightflow Full Body Treatment grounds and reconnects. The brand’s Skinlight Facial Treatment blends its organic skincare with LED light therapy in collaboration with Opatra London to restore luminosity and lift by delivering targeted results.

BE INFORMED...

To find out how Inlight Beauty could benefit your business, email: pete.simmons@inlightbeauty.co.uk www.inlightbeauty.co.uk

Clockwise from above: Inlight Beauty’s Face Cleanser, Face Oil and Floral Tonic; the Skinlight Facial Treatment features Opatra London LED light therapy; the Trilogy is a new collection of immersive spa rituals

living artof The

European Spa heads to Italy to meet Daniele Cavalli for a bespoke sensorial journey into perfume creation and personal wellbeing at Profumoir

INTERVIEW BY SARAH CAMILLERI

In the heart of Florence, behind the timeworn façade of a 16th-century palazzo, something quietly radical is taking place. This is Profumoir, the sensory atelier founded by Daniele Cavalli, son of the late fashion icon Roberto Cavalli and the ever elegant renowned designer Eva Cavalli. Born into the theatrical world of fashion, Daniele has shifted focus to a more intimate frontier: scent. At Profumoir, he is redefining fragrance not as a commercial product, but as a personal experience rooted in memory, healing and wellbeing.

“Perfume is not just smell,” he says. “It’s breath, it’s consciousness, it’s memory. “Perfume is not just a fine art – its creation can also be a beautiful connector. How you smell is so important. It is not part of our physical world – it’s in between. It’s the dream world beyond the veil. This is the intensity of fragrance.’

Why scent matters

Smell is the only sense that bypasses the rational brain. Odour molecules travel directly

to the limbic system, the part of the brain responsible for emotion, behaviour and long-term memory. This direct neurological route explains why a single aroma can trigger vivid recollections or deeply affect mood within seconds.

Modern perfumers and wellness practitioners alike are increasingly exploring the role of essential oils in emotional regulation. Ingredients like bergamot, rose, sandalwood and vetiver have been shown to help reduce stress, strengthen focus or enhance a sense of grounding. Lavender, for instance, is often cited in clinical studies due to its ability to reduce cortisol levels and promote calm.

Cavalli is aware of this science but chooses to keep the unique experience of Profumoir completely intuitive. He speaks less about olfactory pyramids or notes, and more about sensation, memory and the internal response a scent elicits.

“You don’t need to be an expert,” he explains. “You just need to be present, spend time with us and trust your nose.”

“There is no real vocabulary for the sense of smell... what we’re doing here is helping people learn a new language – one that starts in the body, not the mind.”

Profumoir

Daniele Cavalli Founder,

Inside Profumoir

Profumoir opened in autumn 2024 and really is something new and different in this artisanal city. Cavalli’s work, in collaboration with master perfumer Sileno Cheloni, has a core focus on sensory wellbeing expressed through the art of fragrance creation. As well as a beautiful retail store, guests can book revealing and unique curated journeys at Casa Profumoir, a beautifully designed house dedicated to delivering luxurious and delightful fragrance experiences.

Customers and guests can book a curated olfactory journey that includes bespoke perfume blending, immersive scent rituals and structured workshops for individuals or groups. All experiences are expertly guided by an experienced perfumer and built around rare essential oils and pure natural extracts.

Fragrance journaling, intuitive scent testing and olfactory education are parts of the process, encouraging guests to explore scent through memory, emotion and instinct. Looking ahead, Profumoir plans to integrate additional sensory layers, including music, light and nutritional elements, to create a fully immersive platform for wellness.

Sensory-led spa and wellness

Cavalli has underpinned Profumoir with the values of personalisation, sustainability, artisanal integrity and emotional storytelling through scent. The experience encourages reconnection with the senses, the self and the wider environment.

“Perfume is not material – it is light. It lives between the seen and the unseen. It can take you to a place inside that you need to reconnect with.”

Sileno Cheloni Master perfumer, Profumoir

Business Insight Daniele Cavalli, Profumoir

This page and right: Sileno Cheloni creates blends from the scent library at Profumoir; the interior of Casa Profumoir

Business Insight Daniele Cavalli, Profumoir

This concept can clearly be embraced by spa and wellness investors looking for something new. From signature scent design and guest co-creation to fully bespoke rituals, Profumoir is particularly well suited to luxury spa brands, immersive retreats, boutique hotels and any partner looking to offer deeply personalised, sensory-led wellness.

Its method of intuitive creation reflects broader trends in luxury wellness, such as the growing demand for personalisation, ritual and deeper sensory engagement.

“There is no real vocabulary for the sense of smell,” says Cavalli. “We use words like ‘nice’ or ‘fresh’, but these come from other senses, not the nose. What we’re doing here is helping

Creating a signature perfume

Sarah Camilleri immerses herself in Profumoir’s perfume creation course – a journey of light, peace and appreciation

“I took the Carte Cadeau journey guided by fragrance specialist Lucia Bricchi, who said she would help me let go of my knowledge of aromatherapy to just feel the smells and set an intention for what I would like to create.

“With some conversation about life and special moments triggered by scent – and a few breaks to reset my confused nose with coffee beans – she masterfully guided me to make selections.

“The time flew as Lucia helped me navigate Profumoir’s library of 198 anonymous blends at the perfumer’s desk. She encouraged me to take time to breathe and feel my reaction to the scents until I knew which ones worked for me.

“The whole experience took us right

down to five bottles to make a new perfume, just for me. We played with the formula and took time to see how it smelled on my skin before finalising the mix.

“It was an extraordinary process and not easy. The pure blended oils are stripped of branding and descriptors, each being anonymised by number to remove bias or association. Guests are encouraged to respond viscerally, without overthinking. The journey gave me new respect for and perspective on the art of perfume making.

“I named my perfume Halcyon – as I wanted something that would bring peace, harmony and light into my life. It was a joy to leave Profumoir with my own perfume beautifully packaged in a blue bottle and unique Carrara marble cap.”

people to learn a new language – one that starts in the body, not the mind.”

Personalisation with purpose

At the heart of Profumoir is a belief in agency and Cavalli’s wish to share his and his team’s passion for fragrance. Guests are not sold a perfume. Instead, they are invited to create one and take a very personal journey of the senses. This process is guided, not prescribed.

At his side, Sileno Cheloni – the master perfumer or ‘nose’ – brings more than two decades of expertise in scent creation and natural extraction.

“To create a perfume, you don’t need to study technique,” Cheloni explains. “You need to be connected. Perfume is not material – it is light. It lives between the seen and the unseen. It can take you a place inside that you need to reconnect with. Our

“Perfume is just the beginning – it’s a gateway to other experiences that return us to ourselves.”

Daniele Cavalli Founder, Profumoir

vision is to help people rediscover this part of themselves.”

Workshops, one-to-one consultations and private blending sessions are available by appointment. International guests can also book to stay at Casa Profumoir’s Olfactory House. Here, a private suite can be booked by individuals or couples to enjoy time together in the property’s beautiful garden, which is a fragrant world of herbs and aromatics.

This timeless space functions as a working studio and living archive, and is operated with a dedication to delivering authenticity and intimacy over commercial volume.

Sensory ambition

For Cavalli, Profumoir is based on reconnection – with memory, emotion and the senses. More than a fragrance studio, it is an ecosystem of experiences built to support creativity, introspection and sensory wellbeing.

The direction is clear: a move away from the traditional luxury model towards something more personal, regenerative and intentionally slow.

For spas and destination wellness properties, Profumoir offers a compelling model for high-end sensory personalisation and emotional connection – a direction increasingly echoed by guest demand.

In essence, Cavalli’s aims is to build a broader concept that includes sound, light and even nutrition – a layered sensory offering to guide guests toward conscious living. “Perfume is just the beginning,” he says. “It’s a gateway to other experiences that return us to ourselves.”

www.profumoir.com www.casa.profumoir.com

Above from left: Profumoir’s ambiance and approach appeals to a luxury-loving clientele; Daniele Cavalli and master perfumer Sileno Cheloni

Dermo_ Booster

Oxygenation for the next generation

The new VIP O2 range from Biologique Recherche promises to restore moisture, quality and radiance for dull, tired skin

Luxury French skincare brand Biologique Recherche launched its iconic VIP O2 range in 1998 to support skin oxygenation in polluted urban environments. Nearly 30 years later, the line has been redeveloped to incorporate an exclusive, patented new complex.

By optimising the cellular oxygenation of the epidermis, the brand’s new VIP O2 complex supports the skin’s metabolism, producing the energy essential for proper function and helping to restore skin hydration, radiance and texture.

“Oxygen has been central to our philosophy for nearly 30 years but we have leveraged this thanks to recent advances in science to rethink how we address skin imbalances,” explains Dr Hélène Huguet, vice-president of global research and development at Biologique Recherche.

This page: Biologique Recherche’s reinvented range includes: Fluide VIP O2, Lait VIP O2 and Creme VIP O2

Biologique Recherche has always stood out for its unique philosophy. Rather than creating skincare formulas for certain ages or skin types, the brand strives to work with the skin rather than against it, always meeting its specific needs while incorporating advanced scientific knowledge and technologies.

This dedication to what the brand calls Instant de Peau (skin moment) results in the creation of products for real skin, which constantly evolve depending on season, climate, lifestyle, health and stress, to continuously support and optimise skin function and improve appearance.

“Rather than adding oxygen at the surface, we chose a different path with VIP O2 – helping the skin make better use of the oxygen already available.

“Our unique, patented oxygenating complex, formulated around melatonin and reinforced with two co-bioactives, helps to restore the skin’s natural mechanisms and support oxygen metabolism in the mitochondria – often referred to as the cells’ powerhouses.”

Instant de Peau

A new ritual for skin health

The VIP O2 relaunch includes a complete new facial ritual, performed after an in-depth skin diagnosis to determine the guests’ Instant de Peau on that day.

The 60-minute VIP O2 protocol intensely detoxifies and reoxygenates the epidermis and is ideal for devitalised skin and dull complexions. The protocol includes a new VIP O2 Booster, developed to work in synergy with the VIP O2 Mask.

The treatment sequence has been optimised to amplify the oxygenating action of the products – drainage manoeuvres and enveloping gestures are combined with the Biologique Recherche massage glove for a deeper, more active touch.

Constants of quality

Each product in the range is formulated with the VIP O2 complex, which impacts the skin’s hydration, radiance and texture to strengthen its barrier and improve tone.

VIP O2 offers a complete facial routine, as well as essential skincare products including the VIP O2 Fluide Active Hydrating Serum, Lait VIP O2 Active Cleansing Milk, Creme VIP O2 Active Moisturising Cream and Emulsion Corps VIP O2 Moisturising and Protective Emulsion with Oxygenating Complex.

“VIP O2 is suitable for all skin types, with a particular focus on those exposed to aggressive external factors such as pollution, UV exposure and stress,” says Dr Huguet. “This range helps reinforce the skin’s resilience to everyday stressors and enhances overall radiance.”

BE INFORMED...

To find out more about Biologique Recherche’s innovative VIP O2 products, visit: www.biologiquerecherche.com

A committed brand, B Corp™ certified, present in 90 countries with over 20 years of Spa expertise.

A committed brand, B Corp™ certified, present in 90 countries with over 20 years of Spa expertise.

A multisensory treatment offering, rooted in Provence and supported by science.

A multisensory treatment offering, rooted in Provence and supported by science.

A committed brand, B Corp™ certified, present in 90 countries with over 20 years of Spa expertise.

A committed brand, B Corp™ certified, present in 90 countries with over 20 years of Spa expertise.

A multisensory treatment offering, rooted in Provence and supported by science.

The world’s first Spa to be awarded ECOCERT certification as a «Sustainable Well-Being Center».

The world’s first Spa to be awarded ECOCERT certification as a «Sustainable Well-Being Center».

A multisensory treatment offering, rooted in Provence and supported by science.

The world’s first Spa to be awarded ECOCERT certification as a «Sustainable Well-Being Center».

The world’s first Spa to be awarded ECOCERT certification as a «Sustainable Well-Being Center». HERE, WELL-BEING BECOMES BETTER-BEING

Spa L’Occitane

Labellisé par ETABLISSEMENT BIEN-ETRE DURABLE

spa.info@loccitane.com

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On the Menu

OUR PICK

OF

THE LATEST PRODUCT LAUNCHES AND TREATMENT INNOVATIONS

Edited by Mark Smith

EDITOR’S PICK

Make time to let go with Spa L’Occitane

L’Occitane en Provence’s Mind & Scalp treatment is a holistic therapy designed to soothe stress, uplift the senses and enhance emotions.

Covering the upper body, head and scalp, the treatment combines precise gestures with targeted Hair Care Scalp Serums tailored to suit specific needs. The 60-minute treatment combines smoothing, stretching, percussion, pressure and fascia-release techniques to ease anxiety and relax the body.

A welcome ritual incorporates Relaxing Pillow Mist and soothing rhythmic motions to stimulate scalp circulation. A personalised serum is massaged into the scalp and being wrapped in a warm towel creates a cocooning effect.

Upper body massage follows to ease muscle tightness in the décolleté, neck and shoulders. Fascia release, muscle chain mobilisation and pressure point massage continues on the scalp. To conclude, palm pressure and foot acupressure help to reconnect the whole body. Nourishing hair oil maybe applied at the end.

Mind & Scalp has been assessed using neuroscience tools and AI-assisted emotional decoding technology, revealing tangible benefits across the three dimensions of holistic wellbeing: physical, mental and emotional. www.loccitane.com

“We created Mind & Scalp as a sanctuary for letting go. Each gesture was designed not only to soothe, but to guide the entire being into a deep state of body and mind release.”

Lydie Martin Project leader and international spa trainer

TREATMENT FOCUS

ishga debuts Tides of Change

ishga has introduced a new therapeutic 90-minute spa treatment designed to support people going through times of emotional stress, hormonal fluctuations and major life changes from menopause to grief or divorce.

Tides of Change symbolises the natural cycles of life and aligns with ishga’s restorative connection to the sea. By working to balance masculine and feminine energies, the treatment uses ishga’s multi-award winning skincare products, combined with holistic techniques that focus on nurturing the abdomen, where emotional and hormonal imbalances often manifest. Expect gentle lymphatic stimulation and nervous system regulation with soothing massage techniques. www.ishga.com

Sothys unveils Dermo_Booster cosmeceutical range

Ideal for a medi-spa concept, spa membership and for those needing aftercare following cosmetic procedures, Sothys has launched Dermo_Booster.

Aimed at addressing four main concerns – dehydration, skin ageing, redness and blemishes – the 45-minute professional treatment can be personalised with skin specific Pro Ampoules. It also features a double peel for skin renewal, combining glycolic, mandelic and salicylic acids at 30 per cent.

The Dermo_Booster retail range includes skin prep products plus targeted retail options for hydration, anti-ageing, rosacea and redness, as well as acne-prone skin. The stand out Noctazyme Enhancing Cream is enriched with niacinamide, enzymes and probiotics. www.sothys.com

TREATMENT FOCUS

Germaine de Capuccini launches Sperience rituals and retail products

Germaine de Capuccini’s Sperience spa rituals feature a patented Actimood Program that harnesses the power of neuroscience-backed fragrances to provide a sensorial experience.

The rituals also feature a new spa retail and professional collection focused on holistic wellness. The four new ranges are inspired by ingredients, scents and spa techniques from around the world. Each offers a collection of face and body rituals as well as new retail options.

Elemis elevates skin health with Pro-Collagen Toning Mist

Adding to its popular Pro-Collagen Collection, Elemis has unveiled a powerful three-in-one toner.

Pro-Collagen Toning Mist is clinically proven to prep, replenish and refine skin in one step. Delivering deep hydration while helping to maintain the skin’s natural barrier, it also works to visibly improve skin texture.

The formula includes marine biotech ferment, padina pavonica to replenish; gluconolactone to refine; and rose and mimosa to soothe.

Recommended for use after a double cleanse, the weightless mist preps the skin for the next steps in the recommended skincare routine. It helps to ensure optimal absorption of active ingredients, enhancing the performance of the ritual.

www.elemis.com

Amazonian Discovery is a spicy, citrus option with passionfruit; Asian Journey offers woody and spicy variations with matcha tea and sesame oil; African Safari invokes cocoa and sweet almond oil; and Mediterranean Escape is a heady blend of olive, pomegranate, shea butter and rosemary.

www.germainedecapuccini.com

of the best serum concentrates

European Spa spotlights the most innovative skincare serums and concentrates for autumn

Wildsmith Skin

Radiance Light Serum

Designed to brighten and even skin tone, the antioxidant-rich serum fights photo damage, fine lines and improves skin barrier with niacinamide, resveratrol and hyaluronic acid. www.wildsmithskin.com

Swissline 360° Collagen Night Concentrate

The brand’s first foray into epigenetic skincare harnesses

RejuveNad, a plant-based NAD+ booster that’s clinically proven to reduce wrinkle depth, lift the skin, and visibly fade age spots. www.swissline-cosmetics.com

Aromatherapy Associates

Radiance Boost Serum

Alpine rose promotes cell regeneration to improve skin tone and texture. Prebiotics boost the skin’s natural barrier and pink rock rose helps to reduce signs of inflammation. www.aromatherapyassociates.com

Biologique Recherche

Fluide VIP 02 Active

Hydrating Serum

This aqueous gel forms a protective film against external aggressors. Skin is moisturised, luminous with an enhanced radiance, and the complexion is evened out. www.biologique-recherche.com

ESPA Optimal Skin Pro Serum

This lightweight option deeply hydrates and brightens the skin for a smoother, more radiant glow with sunflower concentrate, black currant seed oil and Omega+ Vitamin Complex www.espaskincare.com

Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced

The gel-serum pairs 20 per cent vitamin C with barrier supporting phyto exosomes and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and protect against environmental aggressors and premature skin ageing. www.medik8.com

Oskia celebrates 15th anniversary with a limited-edition collection

Oskia is celebrating 15 years of skin nutrition with the Past, Present & Future Edit, a limited-edition travel collection featuring award-winning icons, recent innovations and an exclusive preview of new launches.

Presented in a sleek vegan washbag, the edit includes Renaissance Cleansing Gel, Renaissance Mask with the supplements, Super C and Super R Duo.

Violet Water Hydra Gel and the lightweight, calming serum, Midnight Elixir, repair and regenerate skin.

Gilded Night Eye Mask and Deeper Sleep Massage Oil care for the face and body while Super Mane Hair Mask, the brand’s first foray into haircare is deeply nourishing and strengthening.

www.oskiaskincare.com

Ground Wellbeing reveals its Hotel Collection

Ground Wellbeing has launched its Hotel Collection, an elegant range of refillable wet-room amenities developed in partnership with La Bottega, a global leader in eco-conscious luxury hospitality.

The collaboration combines Ground’s intentional approach to wellness and scent rituals with La Bottega’s innovative sustainable packaging solutions.

Crafted using the brand’s revitalising Beo scent formulation, an energising blend of citrus, lemongrass, and eucalyptus, each product is free from harsh chemicals and enriched with essential oils to support calm energy and sensory wellbeing.

The collection includes shower gel, hand wash, hand and body lotion, shampoo, conditioner and a soap bar.

Packaging includes aluminium tubes, refillable bottles and no single-use plastics. www.groundwellbeing.com

Rituals Rooted in Nature, Refined by Expertise.

Rooted in the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, our spa rituals harness the Five Elements to restore balance, vitality and radiance. Blending active botanicals with expert touch, every treatment is a journey of renewal.

Scan to discover our spas.

Gaia Skincare reaches across Europe

We speak to Diane Nettleton, founder of Gaia Skincare, about the spa brand’s ethos and its expansion plans

Inspired by the ancient Greek goddess known as Mother Nature, Gaia Skincare products are handmade in Britain using traditional production methods. Its founder, Diane Nettleton, has more than 40 years of hospitality experience. We discuss the brand’s concept and its growth in the market.

What makes Gaia Skincare unique for spas?

Gaia offers a complete solution for spas; the highest-quality natural products, exceptional treatments, in-depth training and consistent support, along with the option to offer amenities for guests. I truly understand the demands of running a successful spa, having done this in the south-west of England.

What are your most recent product and treatment launches?

This summer we launched the Everglowing Face & Body Treatment, which has been curated to uplift and revitalise both the mind and body. Our Mineral SPF Moisturiser is a broad-spectrum SPF 25+ sunscreen that

provides protection against UVA and UVB rays while ensuring an eco-friendly, reef-safe approach.

How is sustainability part of your ethos?

Eco-consciousness is built into Gaia’s brand ethos, working in harmony with Mother Nature. Packaging is in bamboo and glass, with minimal plastic. We source products that are handmade locally with traditional artisan methods. We also operate a refill scheme and recently introduced refill pouches in our bath range. Our team travel using public transport whenever possible, and we also have a Gaia electric vehicle.

Where is the brand available?

Gaia is available at over 50 spa partners across the UK and Ireland, along with locations in South Africa and Europe. We have just signed our first account in Lithuania, which joins our three recent accounts in Europe at Le Primore in Hungary, Álkyna Lifestyle Beach Resort in Corfu and Helea Lifestyle Beach Resort in Rhodes. We’ve also partnered with the Ebrington Hotel in Northern Ireland. www.gaiaskincare.co.uk

BRAND TO WATCH

Diane Nettleton

TREATMENT FOCUS

Elemental Herbology celebrates women with Five Element Pause & Renew Ritual

To coincide with Menopause Awareness Month, Elemental Herbology will unveil its Five Element Pause & Renew Ritual in October.

The 90-minute face and body experience is designed to support women at every stage of menopause, including perimenopause and post-menopause.

One of the brand’s five bath and body oils, each infused with therapeutic essential oils, will be matched to the guest’s primary concern or symptom. Mindful breathing, cool stone placement, Swedish massage and lymphatic drainage will help calm the nervous system and restore emotional equilibrium. Targeted acupressure helps to relieve symptoms such as hot flushes, brain fog, anxiety, mood swings and insomnia. The ritual concludes with a cooling, revitalising facial. www.elementalherbology.com

TREATMENT FOCUS

Ariadne Athens heralds autumn with Melting Sensation Candle Massage

To welcome autumn, Ariadne Athens presents a Melting Sensation Candle Massage – Recharging Citrus Blossoms, an indulgent 60-minute body ritual combining cocooning warmth with uplifting vitality.

Once lit, the natural butters turn into golden oil releasing a fragrant blend of kumquat, sweet orange, and lemon. The warm oil, rich in emollients, glides effortlessly over the skin, offering an ultra-sensorial texture that enhances every massage movement.

Presented in an elegant ceramic vessel with a precision spout, the candle allows a seamless, drip-free pour. Guests can take home the Recharging Citrus Blossoms candle to recreate the warmth, fragrance and relaxation in their own space.

www.ariadne-athens.com

BRAND TO WATCH

Glo Skin Beauty delivers synergy and support

US-based professional skincare and mineral makeup brand

Glo Skin Beauty was founded by a plastic surgeon to produce results-led, scientifically backed skincare solutions.

Aiming to support spa destinations and professionals seeking to elevate their treatment menus, the brand offers a comprehensive portfolio of professional-grade exfoliation treatments. In addition, its integrated range of of skincare and mineral makeup has been formulated to work in synergy to support long-term skin health.

The collection enables spa professionals to tailor treatments to individual skin needs – from rosacea and acne to pigmentation and signs of ageing. www.gloskin.beauty

TREATMENT FOCUS

Voya boosts circulation and energy with Cryo-Revive Ritual

Harnessing the restorative power of hot and cold therapy, Voya has introduced a full body treatment, Cryo-Revive Ritual.

Designed to invigorate the senses, enhance circulation and relieve muscle tension using the brand’s new Cryo-Cooling Gel, the ritual is available as a 60-minute energising body treatment or a 90-minute experience, featuring a revitalising peppermint scrub. It combines targeted heat and cooling techniques using a traditional Bian stone massage tool.

The treatment offers relief from muscle aches and inflammation and deep hydration alongside instant cooling for tired skin. Guests can expect enhanced lymphatic drainage, boosted energy, vitality, and mental clarity. www.voya.ie

The alchemy of rest

Georgie Cleeve, co-founder of Oskia, writes about the importance of restorative sleep and the brand’s Circadian-Syncing Deep Sleep Treatment

In the world of beauty and wellness, sleep is often celebrated as the closest thing to the fountain of youth. It’s a fundamental yet frequently overlooked pillar of any effective skincare regime.

The quiet hours of night initiate a cascade of vital biological processes that renew and repair the skin. Beauty sleep isn’t just a phrase, it’s a fact.

During deep sleep, the body performs several crucial activities that support skincare. ATP production increases, fuelling cellular energy; skin regeneration and repair processes accelerate; cortisol levels (the stress hormone) are low; autophagy, your body’s natural recycling and detox process, also takes place.

These nocturnal processes, guided by your circadian rhythm, play a key role in skin health: rebuilding skin cells, stimulating fibroblast production and rebalancing hydration.

Long-term sleep deprivation can trigger inflammation and excess oil production due to elevated cortisol, which can result in breakouts, sensitivity and premature ageing.

An elixir for skin

Thankfully, there are many ways to naturally improve sleep quality. Nutrient-rich foods support melatonin production and help reduce inflammation. Magnesium and herbal remedies such as lavender and chamomile help calm the nervous

“Our unique treatment blends serene massage techniques with aromatic mists, warm oils and rich balms to support overnight skin repair.”

Georgie

Cleeve Co-founder, Oskia

system. Topical skincare can also play a powerful role.

Sulphur (MSM), vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, copper and amino acids act as co-factors, meaning they’re essential building blocks for producing collagen and elastin. These potent ingredients are found in Oskia’s Midnight Elixir, an

intensive night repair serum designed to support skin regeneration for firmer, smoother and more rested skin. Yoga, meditation or massage can also have a calming effect, helping to lower stress, boost serotonin and GABA levels, and guide the body into a state of deep relaxation.

Putting sleep in sync

To support clients further, Oskia has created the Circadian-Syncing Deep Sleep Treatment, a luxurious, deeply restorative experience now available at selected Oskia spa partners worldwide. This unique treatment blends serene massage techniques with aromatic mists, warm oils and rich balms infused with magnesium, melatonin and optionally, CBD – all designed to encourage a restful night’s sleep and support the skin’s overnight repair.

The Oskia Circadian-Syncing Deep Sleep Treatment is available at Cowley Manor and Cliveden House in the UK and Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, Dubai and London Hyde Park. It has also launched at Hotel des Trois Couronnes in Switzerland and Dromoland Castle in Ireland.

BE INFORMED...

To enquire about adding Oskia treatments and products to your spa menu, please contact: info@oskiaskincare.com

SPAS TO WATCH

Five of the best spas

Enjoy our autumn selection of the best new spas delivering excellence and innovation in Europe

REPORT BY MARK SMITH

As the spa industry continues to see increased investment, European Spa is excited about the development pipeline for major hotel groups and wellness investors globally. In this edition we shine a spotlight on the latest openings across Europe.

While longevity is the word of the moment, many properties continue to prioritise wellness, with a strong focus on skincare and body treatments.

Hospitality businesses are investing for future demand and an expected increase in wellness travel. This aligns with the findings of the Future of Wellness report, by McKinsey & Company, which reveals that more than half of respondents said they prioritise wellness more than they did a year ago.

Here, we spotlight five standout spas in Europe, each redefining luxury wellbeing in its own distinctive way.

Verdala Wellness Hotel, Malta

Billed as Malta’s first premier integrated wellness hotel, AX Hotels’ new five-star Verdala Wellness Hotel is located in Rabat, Malta. As the latest addition to the AX Privilege Collection, the adults-only hotel offers a selection of wellness experiences integrating healthy eating, movement, community and social wellness, mindfulness practices and recovery.

Designed by C&K Architecture, with interiors by Dubai-based studio LW Design Group, the hotel emerges from a natural

INSIDE THE PROJECT

Verdala Wellness Hotel

https://axhotelsmalta.com/verdala-wellness

Spa size 1,500sqm

Product partners Seed to Skin Tuscany, Ground Wellbeing, Préime

Spa suppliers Dolphin pools, ASPA, Alfred Arpa, Gurmoosh, Gharieni, Technogym, Nohrd, NeXus, TAC – The Assistant Company

ridge as a sculpted retreat anchored in its surroundings. Every detail has been curated to reflect a harmonious blend of nature, wellness and refined simplicity. Expect earthy tones, raw textures and natural materials.

Specialist practitioners

Spa Connectors, led by founder, Kathryn Moore, consulted on the entire project, working on the hotel from design and tech services to concept, programming, procurement, recruitment, training, simulations, sales and marketing strategy.

Communal spaces include areas for reflection, reading, workshops and the

Amber Gauci Ward Head of wellness

“Verdala was always about more than a hotel. It was about capturing Malta’s spirit and elevating it through wellness, culture and design. We’ve created something that feels both timeless and entirely new.”

Kathryn Moore Founder, Spa Connectors

Elixir Bar, which offers light nourishment with functional wellness blends. The team includes a range of specialists including certified coaches, yoga teachers, a spinal energetics practitioner, a sound healer, senior movement specialist and a resident physiotherapist.

Rooted in the land

The resort’s V SPA is a 1,500sqm wellness space that integrates traditional practices with advanced therapies. Signature rituals draw from Maltese herbalism, while modern offerings include contrast therapies, energy healing, physiotherapy and advanced facials offered across seven treatment rooms.

Facilities include a cave-inspired indoor pool, salt cave, hammam, infrared sauna, experience showers and outdoor Jacuzzi. A meditation room, consultation suites, IV room, movement studio and gym complete the offer.

“We are thrilled to open the doors to Verdala Wellness Hotel and see our vision for a new era of hospitality come to life,” says head of wellness Amber Gauci Ward. “As Malta’s first fully integrated wellness hotel, we’re offering more than a stay – we’re curating transformational experiences that honour how people want to rest, restore and reconnect.

“Wellness is the future of hospitality, and it’s embedded in every layer of Verdala – from holistic, science-backed V SPA therapies to consultations and leading-edge facilities.”

FOR NATURE IMMERSION

Louma Farm and Retreat, UK

Set in the rolling Dorest landscape of Marshwood Vale, Louma Farm and Retreat is a boutique 17-key property that offers an off-grid feel with luxury touches and a comprehensive wellness offering.

Just two and a half hours by train from London, the property sits in picturesque farmland with woodland trails and vineyard views where guests can truly immerse themselves in nature. With a focus on family groups, children can meet and feed farm animals, build campfires, explore the outdoors on horseback, or simply lie under the stars and marvel at the sky.

Louma Farm and Retreat features a farm-to-fork dining experience celebrating local, seasonal produce. Open-air braais mark the start of summer, cooking under the stars with ingredients sourced from the gardens and fields. Guests can enjoy award-winning English sparkling and still wines made on site from grapes in the destination’s 33-acre vineyard estate.

A barn full of wellness

At the heart of the property’s offering is its state-of-the-art Wellness Barn & Spa, featuring Technogym equipment for fitness and movement,

as well as Concept2 and Peloton cardio machinery, Blk Box resistance and free weights.

There are both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a sauna, cold water therapy and a menu of holistic rituals curated by Wildsmith Skin. Treatments are offered in outdoor wellness rooms near the main building. The beautiful inside pool and sauna have a terrace that overlooks the decked lower-level outdoor pool with views of the countryside out to sea along the Jurassic coast.

Björn Lönngren Head of wellness

INSIDE THE PROJECT

Louma Farm and Retreat www.loumafarmandretreat.co.uk

Spa size 330sqm

Product partner Wildsmith Skin

Spa suppliers KB Pools, Isca Pools, Studio Stellen, DayDream, Technogym, Concept2, Peloton, Blk Box, Dip & Doze, Mews, Richard Haworth

Breathing in nature

“I am so proud to spearhead the development, training and operation of Louma’s Wellness Barn, an outstanding destination for wellbeing in the heart of the English countryside,” says Björn Lönngren, head of wellness at Louma. “The facilities and the setting are breathtaking, and with the services and experiences offered we continually exceed the expectations of our guests.”

Transformative wellness experiences including yoga are offered in the Cow Barn, where guests can breathe the fresh countryside air with resident cows and calves below. Local yoga expert Pip Scammell leads classes based on Vinyasa yoga. Completing the offer are outdoor sound baths, meditation workshops, forest walks and horseback rides to nearby Charmouth beach, complete with picnics, offering more immersive ways to reconnect with nature.

Kimpton Atlântico Algarve, Portugal

Positioned on the golden sands of Sao Rafael Beach near Albufeira on Portugal’s southern coast, Kimpton

Atlântico Algarve has impressive sea views and a contemporary spa. Part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, Kimpton is expanding across Europe and this venture marks its debut in Portugal. The property is managed by Highgate, a leading global real estate investment and hospitality management company with a strong presence in Portugal.

The luxury lifestyle resort features 149 rooms and suites inspired by its Atlantic setting. Guests can expect uninterrupted views of the ocean with a chic elegant feel from room to spa.

Portuguese designer Nini Andrade Silva brings her signature aesthetic to the resort under the

project management of Lucid Development Group. Natural textures and warm, earthy tones set the mood, while smooth stone surfaces, airy linens, handcrafted ceramics and timber accents create a beautifully designed hotel and spa that is both welcoming and relaxed.

A rejuvenating experience

Guests at Kimpton Atlântico Algarve can enjoy treatments at its 1,800sqm Wellness Hub. The space has been created as a sanctuary for rejuvenation with a heated indoor pool, a hydroactive spa circuit with a floatation tank, a Jacuzzi, a sauna and Turkish baths. The spa concept is based around the team’s commitment to body, mind, and spirit, combined with the art of personalisation.

Wellness as a lifestyle

“We are passionate about providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for each guest,” says wellness manager, Jose Da Mota Moreira. “Our spa is thoughtfully designed to be a peaceful retreat where the mind can wander, unwind and recharge. We see wellness not as a moment, but as a lifestyle – one that begins here and continues long after you leave.”

The Wellness Hub offers a selection of personalised massages and therapy sessions, helping visitors unwind and regain balance. Subtle Energies has curated a bespoke treatment menu for the project and the spa features one couples room and seven single treatment rooms as well as a recovery room. An onsite gym is equipped by Life Fitness.

INSIDE THE PROJECT

Kimpton Atlântico Algarve https://www.ihg.com/hotels/gb/en/ albufeira/faokm/hoteldetail

Spa size 1,800sqm

Product partner Subtle Energies

Spa suppliers Sauna 360, Nini Andrade Silva, Under Blue, Lameirinho, Jambel, Life Fitness, Book4time

Jose Da Mota Moreira Wellness manager

JW

Crete Resort & Spa, Greece

JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 hotel brands, recently opened JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, the brand’s first Mediterranean beach resort. The project features 160 well-appointed guest rooms, suites and villas, all offering sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. Set in Marathi, near the town of Chania, the resort spans over 100 acres of coastline and is designed to harmonise with Crete’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Crafted by Athens-based studio Block722, the resort embodies contemporary elegance and is thoughfully integrated into the landscape with planted roofs and olive and carob tree groves. Natural materials including marble and wood have been used and sustainability is built in

with geothermal and solar energy systems, heat recovery from air conditioning for hot water, and the use of treated grey water for irrigation.

Cretan healing rituals

At the heart of the resort’s wellness offering is Anoseas Spa, which combines traditional Cretan healing rituals with modern immersive therapies. Interiors of the spa space are calm and contemporary, designed to mirror the natural tones of the island’s coastline.

During the pre-opening phase, spa consultants Stavros Mavridis of Eminence Hospitality and Andrew Gibson of Andrew Gibson Advisory developed the concept, plans, equipment, spa brands and marketing.

Marriott

INSIDE THE PROJECT

JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa www.marriott.com/en-gb/hotels/ chqmj-jw-marriott-crete-resort-and-spa Spa size 850sqm

Product partners Swissline, SeaSkin Life, Aromatherapy Associates, Bioaroma, Margaret Dabbs Spa suppliers Technogym, KLAFS, Lemi Group, Lalaounis, Afrodite, Gianakopoulos

Wisdom and reconnection

The spa boasts five treatment rooms including one double room with a sauna and steam room from KLAFS. Each treatment room has its own private shower. In the communal areas, guests can enjoy the sauna, steam room and vitality pool. Additionally there is a yoga deck and four swimming pools with panoramic sea views, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness centre.

“Drawing on the island’s rich Minoan heritage, the spa celebrates centuries of wisdom through treatments designed to restore balance, vitality, and inner serenity,” says spa and wellness manager Kyriaki Sentouka. “Guests are invited to reconnect with their senses through light, movement, and the healing power of touch, while every element of the experience is crafted to promote well-being and freedom of body and mind.”

Kyriaki Sentouka Spa and wellness manager

Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol, Spain

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, part of the hospitality group Accor, in partnership with Millennium Hospitality Real Estate and Odyssey Hotel Group, has opened Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol. Set in the province of Cadiz, the resort blends Andalusian heritage with contemporary elegance, offering an exciting new luxury spa destination on Spain’s southern coast.

Located just one hour from Malaga and 30 minutes from Marbella, Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol has been designed to embody the brand’s connection to local culture and the natural surroundings. Every aspect of the resort has been carefully curated to create an immersive experience in which modern comfort meets Andalusia’s rich traditions.

Inviting calm and enjoyment

The property features 311 suites and private villas, each offering a refined blend of craftsmanship and contemporary style. Interiors are bright and airy with light wood, organic textures and warm cream tones that reflect the soft glow of the Spanish sun.

INSIDE THE PROJECT

Fairmont La Hacienda Costa del Sol www.fairmont.com/en/hotels/sanroque/fairmont-la-hacienda-costa-delsol.html

Spa size 1,800sqm

Product partners Subtle Energies, 111SKIN, Bastien Gonzalez Spa suppliers Gharieni, Technogym, Book4time

Spanish studio dAAr Arquitectura worked on the design of the resort – including the hotel, villas, landscaping, spa and common areas. “The spa is designed so that shadows, sound and the texture of the floors invite calm and enjoyment,” says Lía Sainz, project director at dAAr Arquitectura.

Rest and renewal

The resort’s 1,800sqm spa has five single and one double treatment room, and offers a space for rest and renewal, offering panoramic views stretching from the Mediterranean to the rolling green mountains beyond.

“The Fairmont Spa is an exceptional sanctuary of wellbeing and wellness, privileged to be in a

Carmen Ortigosa Spa director

breathtaking location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and surrounded by natural beauty,” says spa director Carmen Ortigosa. “It blends elegant minimalist design, natural light, and organic textures to create an immersive atmosphere that invites guests to indulge in unique sensory experiences.” Holistic treatments feature products from leading spa brands Subtle Energies and 111SKIN. Expert manicures and pedicures are delivered in collaboration with renowned specialist Bastien Gonzalez. Guests can also unwind in hydrotherapy pools, a hammam and a dedicated yoga and fitness space, with every detail having been designed to encourage relaxation and reconnection with nature.

TOUCHLESS TECHNOLOGY

European Spa selects some the most innovative touchless technologies on the market to give spa leaders a trusted guide for future investment

TREPORT BY WENDY GOLLEDGE

he demand for touchless technologies is accelerating, as spas, wellness destinations and integrated health clinics look to enhance their treatment menus, optimise treatment room utilisation, distinguish themselves from competitors and boost their bottom lines.

Defined as any treatment, therapy or experience that delivers physical, mental, emotional or spiritual benefits without the need for direct physical touch, today’s touchless technologies encompass everything from halotherapy and infrared light treatments to robot massagers and cryotherapy.

Powered by extensive research, we flagged the growing touchless transformation as a trend to watch in our spa investor’s guide European Spa Platinum Resource 2025.

The growing number of high-tech, touchless solutions can help spas to relieve pressure on their teams, as well as manage customer flow, boost efficiency and augment menus to meet

evolving wellness expectations.

While many of these innovations require significant investment, they can – when well implemented – provide quality treatment experiences and create new revenue streams.

According to the Touchless Wellness Association, the sector is set to continue to facilitate the trend for hyper-personalisation and bio-individuality. This includes greater integration of holistic practices – experiences that are more focused on connecting emotionally to the customer.

For spas considering investment in this area, the key is to look beyond the technology itself and ask how it aligns with your USP, brand story and guest journey. Can it complement existing services rather than compete with them to create more value? And does it help futureproof your business model?

We hope you enjoy European Spa’s Buyers’ Guide: Touchless Technology, designed to help you to elevate your business’s guest experience.

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Metawell by Gharieni Group

“Wellness guests today want measurable results, faster recovery, deeper mental calm, improved sleep, enhanced performance and better long-term wellbeing,” says Sammy Gharieni, CEO and founder of Gharieni Group. “Metawell by Gharieni Group delivers these outcomes through evidence-based, touchless and hybrid technologies that transform the proven principles of sound, vibration, light, touch and water into immersive, results-driven experiences.”

KEY PRODUCTS

Two innovations illustrating Metawell’s results-first approach to touchless technology are the MLX i3Dome and the RLX Satori Mental Fitness Lounger.

The MLX i3Dome is a triple-detox far-infrared sauna that accelerates recovery, reduces inflammation and eliminates heavy metals, creating positive effects on immunity and mental wellbeing. Described as ‘a gym for the brain’, RLX Satori uses binaural vibro-acoustics to boost cognitive function, soothe stress and improve mental resilience.

Both technologies can be used as standalone treatments or integrated into existing menu offerings for elevated guest experience and strong returns on investment.

REASONS TO INVEST

Metawell’s touchless technologies allow spas to expand their offerings without increasing therapist workload, driving new revenue streams and greater ROI. With scientific validation, engineering precision and a deep understanding of human wellness, its evidence-based products target measurable outcomes in areas such as recovery and longevity, mental wellbeing, sleep health and aesthetics.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Prices available on request www.metawell.io

Sammy Gharieni

This page: the MLX i3Dome at ZEM Wellness Clinic, Spain and (below) the RLX Satori Mental Fitness Lounger

DESIGNED FOR EVERY BODY EVERY EXPERIENCE

SPA FUSION FLOW

Multi-functional for manicures, pedicures, massages and facials

Premium Comfort & Ergonomic Design

Heated foot-rest

Ultra-low access & ADA compliant

iYU by Capsix

Billed as the world’s first AI-powered recovery assistant, iYU by French brand Capsix offers a self-guided, science backed massage experience. Designed to complement human touch and not to replace it, the iYU’s medical-grade robotic arm and bio-inspired hand deliver an onskin massage with or without massage oil.

KEY FEATURES

Created by robotics engineer François Eyssautier, physiotherapist Stéphane Rollet and AI expert Carole Eyssautier, the iYU robotic arm adapts with responsive pressure to match the user’s movements and breathing. It can be used alone or as a complement to hands-on therapy.

The iYU’s massage protocols are designed by therapists and built on an advanced 3D human body model. Every session reproduces the same pressure, duration and manoeuvres, but the system uses AI algorithms to adapt each massage to the user’s body, in real time.

iYU experiences – for muscle relaxation, deep tissue massage and a soothing Swedish-style ritual – can last between 20 and 50 minutes and can be enhanced by an immersive sound experience for deeper relaxation.

REASONS TO INVEST

The iYU AI-powered recovery assistant can help spas expand their massage offering and increase bookings with

precision and consistency. It offers a fully autonomous experience that can be made available to guests 24/7 in self-guided mode or with assistance.

“Choosing iYU means offering guests treatments that are always available, private and accessible,” says Carole Eyssautier, co-founder and general manager at Capsix.

“For spas, it creates high-value, self-service experiences that elevate guest satisfaction and generate additional revenue when therapists are fully booked.”

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

From £104,000 (€120,000) www.capsix.com

Carole Eyssautier

ID Oteire by Iyashi Dôme

KEY FEATURES

Combining ancient Japanese tradition with the latest technology, Iyashi Dôme’s ID Oteire offers a hybrid solution for deep detoxification, weight loss, relaxation, anti-ageing and muscle recovery. The design of the device means that manual spa treatments can be carried out by a therapist at the same time as a gentle, touchless infratherapy session.

Featured in the Dior Spa The Lana in Dubai, ID Oteire is also available with the ID RenaiSens – an oxygen-enriched air diffusion system that uses organic-certified essential oils, created by world-renowned French perfumer Jean-Charles Sommerard, to intensify the relaxation experience during an infratherapy session.

REASONS TO INVEST

“The ID Oteire reinvents infratherapy by creating a perfect symbiosis between manual care and cutting-edge technology,” says Iyashi Dôme training manager Florent Cornélis. “Combining hands-on treatments with the deep action of far infrared rays can lead to exceptional results for spa guests.”

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Price available on request www.iyashidome.com

Self Recovery by Self

KEY FEATURES

Created by Scandinavian brothers Julian and Jimmy Jorgensen, the Self Recovery robot arm leverages advanced robotics, machine learning and computer vision to offer highly personalised massages tailored to the individual user.

“Clients undergo a brief onboarding with a therapist to create a customised programme,” explains Julian Jorgensen. “Users then lie on a standard massage table – clothing is optional – and a camera captures a 3D representation of their body. This allows the system to deliver a bespoke massage.

“The robot performs percussion massage at a steady, precise level, and never gets tired! Users can customise the intensity, speed and massage patterns via an intuitive touchscreen.”

REASONS TO INVEST

Self Recovery provides high-quality, personalised massages 24/7, making it ideal to increase spa revenue. With no need for complex setups, it prioritises convenience and accessibility.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

From £4,000 (€4,600)/month www.self.io

Zerobody Cryo by Starpool

Starpool’s Zerobody Cryo is a stylish way for spa guests to experience cold therapy – at temperatures as low as 4°C – in a dry, non-invasive environment. The Italian-designed technology offers the same benefits as traditional cryotherapy or cold immersion, but in a completely dry environment.

KEY FEATURES

Starpool’s patented dry floatation technology offers a treatment in a condition of microgravity. Guests are wrapped in a patented membrane that puts them in contact with thermoregulated water cooled to 4°C without getting wet. The system uses a water circulation pipe to create dry cold therapy, which is more versatile than immersion.

“Zerobody Cryo cools the skin and stimulates the immune and metabolic systems. It offers skin rejuvenation, reducing muscle and joint pain and promoting fast, effective muscle recovery, as well as endorphin production,” says Riccardo Turri, CEO of Starpool.

REASONS TO INVEST

Zerobody Cryo allows spas to deliver the benefits of traditional cryotherapy in a safe, accessible, fully touchless format. The system is contactless, customisable and can be

seamlessly integrated into existing wellness programmes or used to add longevity offerings to the menu.

The device has low energy consumption and is easy to use, with a touch-screen display. It is simple to operate and non-invasive, making cryotherapy more approachable and consistent, even for first-time users. Zerobody Cryo allows spas to offer a high-impact treatment that meets growing demand for health optimisation.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

From £25,000 (€29,000) www.starpool.com

Riccardo Turri

Aquamotus by Aquaform

KEY FEATURES

A horizontal shower system for spa and wellness centres, Aquamotus delivers automated, touchless Vichy-style treatments. Five jet options – rain, aerated, nebulised with LED, blade and turbine – allow a range of sensory effects, from delicate relaxation to energising stimulation. Aquamotus has 16 preset programmes, lasting 10 to 40 minutes, targeting different guest needs including relaxation, energising and balance. There are also optional chromotherapy and aromatherapy add-ons. A touchscreen interface enables both automatic and manual control, while fully touchless operation means guests can enjoy treatments without the need for therapist assistance.

REASONS TO INVEST

“Aquamotus is a 100 per cent contact-free experience, offering maximum hygiene, safety and autonomy,” says Stefano Moretti, founder and CEO of Aquaform. “The multi-sensory integration of water, light, aroma and sound in programmable sequences provides a complete and immersive treatment.”

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

From £26,000 (€30.000)

www.aquaformsrl.com

Normatec Premier by Hyperice

KEY FEATURES

Allowing spa operators to add touchless recovery options to their menu, Normatec Premier boots use pulse technology to increase circulation in the legs, helping to reduce any swelling and revive sore muscles.

Guests can use the Hyperice App to tailor their compression massage to meet any specific needs. Pressure levels and length of treatment can be controlled by the user without the need for therapist intervention.

“Normatec Premier features our revolutionary HyperSync technology,” says Jason Hussain, senior director of international sales and business development at Hyperice.

“This synchronises pressure in each leg

to ensure guests experience a symmetrical massage. It’s a great way for guests to unlock the best version of themselves and it’s not just for athletes.”

REASONS TO INVEST

Normatec helps with lymphatic drainage, pain and soreness, improving ranges of motion and relieving fatigue. This makes it ideal for spas, longevity and recovery centres, as well as operators offering high levels of physical activity as part of their programming.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

£999 (€1,150)

www.hyperice.com

Premium floating tank by Float Spa

KEY FEATURES

An advanced floatation system, Float Spa’s premium floating tank can be used for sensory deprivation, allowing guests to float in full dark and silence, in a warm brine solution, or with customisable sound, light and aromatherapy options. The well documented benefits of flotation include reduced stress, improved concentration and focus, relaxation, joint pain relief and faster recovery after physical activity.

The computer-controlled system can be operated either through a user-friendly touch screen or an optional remote-control screen in spa reception areas.

REASONS TO INVEST

The Float Spa tank stands out for its unique, ergonomic shape, large size and low operating and maintenance costs. Hygiene is guaranteed thanks to the self-draining system, which evacuates 100 per cent of the water after every user. An external reservoir tank stores the salt solution and a unique five-step water cleaning filtration and back-wash system guarantees cleanliness.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

£29,230 (€33,800) www.floatspa.com

The advantages of touchless technologies for spas

The incorporation of well executed touchless treatments can offer a wide range of benefits to spa businesses.

n Add value to the spa menu by providing diversified services and unique treatments with advanced layers.

n Unlock additional income from treatment rooms that would otherwise only generate revenue when staffed by a therapist.

n Create differentiation from competitors, attracting guests interested in innovative, non-invasive wellness experiences.

n Turn non-revenue-generating spaces such as lounges and relaxation spaces into sources of income.

n Reduce therapist overload and fatigue while streamlining operations, and offer a solution to prevent lost revenue due to unexpected unavailability of staff.

n Allows for increased accessibility, as therapies can be available after hours to meet guests’ time constraints.

n Align your spa with the latest advancements in wellness, positioning it as modern and forward thinking.

n Improve accessibility and widen your customer base by appealing to people who may be hesitant or unable to participate in hands-on treatments.

n Add recovery services to your menu by combining therapies such as cryotherapy and red light, which can amplify each other’s effects.

Wellsystem Wave Touch by JK Group

A state-of-the-art dry hydrotherapy system, Wellsystem Wave Touch merges the therapeutic benefits of water with soothing warmth and a full-body massage. Guests do not need to undress and no therapist is required for a massage. Underneath a soft, ergonomically contoured surface, precisely controlled warm-water jets glide in rhythmic motions, massaging the body.

KEY FEATURES

Wellsystem can help increase blood circulation and metabolism, and positively influences the autonomic nervous system as well as relieving tension and stress. The experience can be further enhanced by the addition of a multisensory spa canopy, which incorporates calming audio, curated aromatherapy and chromotherapy, including red beauty light – a targeted spectrum that promotes cellular activity, reduces fine lines and stimulates collagen production. Together, these elements create an immersive wellness journey that allows operators to offer touchless, holistic selfcare. Sessions can last up to 45 minutes, but an optimal duration of 25 minutes allows spas to accommodate two treatments per hour. Body size, shoulder width and massage intensity can all be adjusted.

REASONS TO INVEST

“For spa operators seeking to expand their treatment portfolio with self-service wellness solutions, the Wellsystem Wave Touch is a high-impact,

low-maintenance solution,” says Keith Fisher, key account director at JK Group. “As guests don’t need to undress, Wave Touch can be located anywhere within the spa. Its self-explanatory user interface eliminates the need for dedicated staff, and just one session a day is sufficient to cover the daily lease, making it a smart investment with fast ROI potential.”

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

Monthly leasing from £459 (€530) www.wellsystem.com

Keith Fisher

Aquaform turns water into a multisensory experience. From Sky Rain and Rain Rooms to experience showers, horizontal showers, and Kneipp walks, our innovative water wellness systems are designed to enhance well-being and deliver complete sensory immersion.

aquaformsrl.com

Myrtha Wellness designs, engineers, and manufactures sustainable solutions that

the wellness experience. Our modular panel technology embodies the excellence of ‘Made in Italy’ in thermal bathing. At Terme De Montel, well-being in Milan takes shape with Myrtha technology.

www.myrthawellness.com

www.aquaformsrl.com www.myrthawellness.com

Flow System by Art of Cryo

KEY FEATURES

Art of Cryo’s Flow System applies rhythmic negative and positive pressure to the lower body to stimulate circulation, support lymphatic flow and ease tissue congestion. A continuous wave effect offers deep stimulation, aiding relief from stagnation, swelling and even the heaviness of jet lag for frequent travellers.

“Guests describe the experience as feeling a lightness returning to their body. It’s a deep, touchless reset without effort,” says Rainer Bolsinger, chief managing officer at Art of Cryo. “Sessions can last from five to 24 minutes, accommodating different guest preferences and scheduling needs. There are up to 30 treatment levels (including 11 code-protected high-performance modes) for complete personalisation.”

REASONS TO INVEST

Flow System requires no physical contact, channeling mechanised air pressure to deliver benefits in a hygienic, non-invasive way. It can be used independently or integrated into Art of Cryo’s Tec Spa

Module or Multi Cryo Hacking System and Vaultz cryotherapy chamber to form a multi-phase touchless biohacking circuit.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

£76,500 (€88,450) www.artofcryo.com

Light Pod Therapy System by Prism

Prism Light Pod in 2016. Its flagship product offers 15-minute, automated red-light therapy sessions, with preset protocols for recovery, pain, fat loss and skin health.

The health benefits of non-invasive red-light therapy are well established, making the pod a good addition as a standalone service or as an enhancement to existing treatments.

The Prism Light Pad provides a compact, portable option for spas and runs automated 30-minute sessions, making it ideal for pairing with massages, IV therapy and facials.

REASONS TO INVEST

The Prism Light Pod runs on 75 per cent less energy than some other systems and is the only infrared light therapy bed to support standard 110V electrical power. It emits zero EMFs, requires no extra staffing and is designed for easy guest use, with a simple one-button operation.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? Light Pod £89,995 (€104,000), Light Pad £9,995 (€11,500) www.prismlightpod.com

Can spas support guests using weight-loss drugs? THE BIG UESTION

The advent of weight-loss injections that mimic natural hormones to regulate appetite and blood sugar (GLP-1s) has changed the conversation around health. While the benefits can be transformational, side effects can include nausea, vomiting, bloating, constipation and diarrhoea. There’s also growing concern about muscle loss and what is known as ‘Ozempic face’ after fat has been lost. There are said to be over 500,000 people using these treatments in the UK and 15.5 million in the US. Their increased use has serious opportunities

for the spa industry. Some medical-led properties offer injections to kick-start a health programme, supporting clients with education, advice and complementary therapies. Elsewhere, spa guests presenting with muscle loss require resistance and weight-training regimes to counteract the effects. Nutritionists say people’s dietary habits rarely change after these treatments, which is why supportive health counselling – alongside improvements in diet and exercise – are imperative for users to achieve long-term results.

We ask five wellbeing experts from leading spa operators how these challenges can be met to the benefit of guests.

How to combat muscle loss...

While weight-loss injections offer tangible benefits, there are side effects and ongoing support is a must. At Jumeirah, we work with our guests to help counterbalance potential risks such as dehydration, reduced skin elasticity and muscle loss.

Muscle loss is a significant concern, particularly for women, who naturally lose up to 8 per cent of muscle mass per decade from their mid-thirties, and can experience up to 20 per cent decline in bone density following menopause.

Offering programmes that focus on nutritional advice, strength-training

“Weight-loss injections can be a powerful tool, but it’s important to be mindful of side effects and the need for ongoing support.”

Sarah Dalton Director of wellbeing, Jumeirah

This page: Jumeirah offers movement classes and strength training to support guests taking weight-loss treatments

workouts, short HIIT sessions and recovery treatments is vital to support a guest who is using weight-loss injections.

Three-phase support

At Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Dubai we introduced the Lean and Tone programme, designed specifically for guests taking this medication.

This 12-week initiative works in three phases: phase one builds good habits with nutrition and movement, strength training, flexibility and recovery. In phase two, we grow strength and cardiovascular endurance by working on specific muscle groups while promoting healthy food habits and intentional rest. In phase three we continue to build strength while focusing on recovery sessions designed to offset muscle soreness and boost mental clarity and performance. www.jumeirah.com

Sarah Dalton

Weighing up risk and supporting progress

Dr Katharina Sandtner

We have patients who, despite several attempts to change their lifestyle, are unable to control their blood sugar or severe obesity. At Lanserhof Lans we provide weight-loss injections after a strict risk-benefit assessment, as a starter and motivational boost as part of a personalised holistic therapy programme.

For people who are already using these drugs and are not receiving any support, we introduced the Weight Loss Injection Management programme. We use diagnostic parameters to detect any contraindications such as changes in thyroid tissue, organ screening and muscle or bone density loss. We also help clients manage side effects with targeted exercise therapy, dietary changes and supplementation.

Technological advances for weight loss

Cold chamber therapy can stimulate the metabolism and alleviate joint pain, while healing mud baths promote musculoskeletal health and general regeneration. Intermittent hypoxia-hyperoxia training with Cellgym stimulates cellular and metabolic adaptation for improved function and resilience. Plasma stream therapy, hypnosis, psychotherapy and energy medicine can also be introduced.

For the face, we focus on measures that help to support collagen formation, such as special injections with collagen or HIFU treatments.

www.lanserhof.com

“Patients

must be introduced to exercise, optimised nutrition and stress management - health and longevity cannot be achieved through weight reduction alone.”

Dr Katharina Sandtner Medical director, Lanserhof Lans

Clockwise from left: Lanserhof prescribes weight-loss injections as a boost to motivate guests to adopt more healthy exercise and eating regimes as they pursue their goals

Supplementing diet for body composition

Stephanie J Moore

From a nutritional point of view, the most concerning issue around weight-loss injections is that much of the weight loss experienced is muscle or lean mass rather than fat. This is hugely concerning as the individual’s body composition can get worse and they can end up fatter by percentage of weight. It is essential that patients focus on optimising their protein intake, which can be tricky as protein is really filling. Try a high-quality protein powder and an essential amino acid supplement in addition to meat, eggs, fish or full-fat dairy.

A nutrient-rich diet is essential

As people are generally consuming such a little volume of food, they think they can eat junk and ‘get away with it’. More than ever, with reduced intake, as with protein, the food consumed must be nutrient dense to ensure all macro and micro nutrient needs are met. A simple but high-quality supplement protocol is going to help with this.

These drugs slow gut motility, meaning constipation and general gastric upset is common. A series of abdominal massages can really help with this. Lymphatic drainage is also helpful as slow gut transit can result in toxins being reabsorbed into the blood stream.

https://health-in-hand.co.uk

“It is imperative that people on these drugs take the opportunity of decreased appetite to learn better eating habits.”

Stephanie J Moore Clinical nutritionist, health coach and clinical lead, Goodwood Wellbeing Health Retreats

Aiding digestion and detoxification

If a guest indicates they have used weight-loss injections, this is considered during our comprehensive initial medical consultation. The therapy programme is then adapted accordingly, with a particular focus on stabilising the digestive system, supporting the metabolism and promoting gentle detoxification. This may include programmes focused on metabolic regulation, hormonal balance and sustainable weight management – always under medical supervision. The goal is to restore the body’s natural balance.

Modern Mayr Medicine

Our approach for managing the side effects of these drugs is based on Modern Mayr Medicine, which places a strong emphasis on gut health. For complaints such as nausea, bloating or constipation, we apply individually tailored dietary plans, manual abdominal treatments, orthomolecular supplementation, gentle physical therapy and relaxation techniques. These measures help relieve and regenerate the digestive system.

During their stay, guests are supported by an interdisciplinary team of doctors, therapists and nutrition experts. After their visit, we offer telemedical follow-up care to help maintain and build on the progress achieved. This includes lifestyle recommendations, personalised nutrition plans, and, if needed, follow-up consultations. www.vivamayr.com/en/vivamayr-maria-woerth

“While there is no standardised programme exclusively for users of weight-loss injections, our holistic approach allows us to create personalised therapy plans tailored to each guest’s needs.”

Dr Werner Zancolo Head of medical department, Vivamayr Maria Wörth

Dr Werner Zancolo

‘Prehabilitation’ can boost

long-term results

Stephen Price

The rise of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs is a paradigm shift with profound implications and opportunities for spas. While the drugs are celebrated for their efficacy in tackling obesity, their long-term effects are a concern. The most pressing challenge is not necessarily their side effects, but the difficulty individuals face in transitioning off the medication.

An increasing number of people are deciding to take these medications, often without prior consultation with a health professional – spas can fill this void by offering structured, long term supportive care.

We must move beyond short-term programmes and embrace a comprehensive, rehabilitative and human performance model. This includes addressing nutritional literacy, physical conditioning and overall health behaviours. The success of every programme hinges on the empowerment of clients to manage their weight and health after they have stopped the medication, mitigating issues like muscle loss and ensuring lasting success – there are still not enough examples of this yet.

By the introduction of ‘prehabilitation’ – supporting clients before they begin taking GLP-1s – we can achieve far superior outcomes. At Bodyspace at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park, our 12 to 24-month programmes are designed to support clients throughout their GLP-1 journey with the ultimate goal of reducing dosage and ensuring a sustainable transition.

This marks an exciting area of healthcare in which the spa and wellbeing industry can play a large role, allowing us to build deeper, more meaningful life-long connections with our clients. https://body-space.co.uk

“We must move beyond short-term programmes and embrace a comprehensive, rehabilitative and human performance model.”

Stephen Price Founder, SP&Co

Clockwise from left: spa therapists provide vital care for users of GLP-1s; BodySpace at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park helps guests transition off the drugs; guests at Vivamayr Maria Wörth benefit from Modern Mayr Medicine to support gut health

Bridging generations

Amy McDonald, founder of Under a Tree wellness consultancy, explores how creating inclusive wellness experiences can benefit both people and profits

AMY

MCDONALD EXPERT COLUMNIST

With more than 35 years of experience, Amy McDonald advises developers, investors and hospitality executives on positioning wellness as a core economic driver in real estate. Under a Tree Consultancy covers feasibility, concept design and brand alignment to integrate high-impact wellness strategies into mixed-use, resort and residential projects.

McDonald has contributed on a wide range of Global Wellness Institute initiatives and received the Global Wellness Summit’s Leading Woman in Wellness Award in 2024. www.underatree.com

Since the earliest moments of my career, I’ve been drawn to spaces that offer restoration and celebration, not just for the individual but for communities, the environment and culture. I grew up witnessing wellness as a quiet, shared experience: intentional meals, storytelling over tea, generations caring for one another with humility and grace.

Most of today’s spa and wellness

destinations are sanctuaries of stillness and self-care. These spaces have value but, as our world evolves, our vision and that of consumers is moving beyond solo, treatment-focused spas to a more collective, multigenerational social experience.

As wellness leaders we must embrace this expanded definition of wellbeing to invite connection across the ages, supporting collective restoration through belonging.

Wellness as a generational bridge

We’re undergoing a profound global demographic shift. According to the UN, adults aged 65 and older will comprise 16 per cent of the global population by 2050. Baby Boomers are living longer and seeking higher quality ageing experiences, fuelling a longevity economy that’s projected to reach $27 trillion (£20 trillion/€23 trillion) by 2026, according to the Global Wellness Institute (GWI).

Generation X often has both ageing parents and dependent children. AARP reports that one in four Gen Xers belongs to this ‘sandwich generation’, whose wellbeing can suffer as a result.

Millennials meanwhile are prioritising prevention, mental health and holistic lifestyles. McKinsey data shows 75 per cent of Millennials regularly engage in wellness practices like mindfulness.

“While each generation approaches wellness differently, their perspectives are interconnected. Embracing this intergenerational lens is key to developing inclusive wellness offerings.”

Amy McDonald Founder, Under a Tree

Reclaiming play for an anxious generation

According to The Atlantic’s August 2025 issue, a survey of children aged eight to 12 found 45 per cent preferred outdoor, unsupervised play over screen time.

But modern norms often limit this independence – fewer than half of nine-year-olds have ever walked through a shop alone; over a quarter aren’t permitted to play in the garden unsupervised.

This over-monitoring restricts vital developmental growth and increases anxiety.

Insights from the GWI’s Wellness for Children Initiative reinforce this, noting that play relieves stress, improves mood, sparks creativity and builds social and physical resilience, especially in teens.

Wellness programming can help, including nature-based exploration zones, multigenerational movement classes, screen-free lounges and activities that nurture autonomy and connection. While children are granted safe freedom, parents can exhale and recharge.

This page from above: an intergenerational meal at Serenbe in Atlanta, US; children having fun at Tri Vananda in Phuket, Thailand

Image: J Ashley Photography

Finally, for Generation Z wellness is inseparable from sustainability, self-awareness and mental resilience. Over 66 per cent use wellness apps or wearables and they represent 41 per cent of US wellness spending, despite comprising only 36 per cent of the adult population.

While each generation approaches wellness differently, their perspectives are interconnected. Embracing this intergenerational lens is key to developing inclusive wellness offerings.

Inclusive programme design in action

In wellness hospitality and real estate, enthusiasm for multigenerational programming that fosters connection and holistic wellbeing is growing. Consider Serenbe, a wellness community outside Atlanta, US, where nature, fresh food and intentional living have brought generations together for more than 20 years.

Clockwise from above: Amy McDonald with Richard Gere at the Global Wellness Summit in 2024; social wellness at Tri Vananda, Phuket, Thailand; Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som in Qatar welcomes the whole family

Proven wellness models delivering real-world results

Around the world, inspired businesses are weaving wellness into the fabric of intergenerational communities

n Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som in Qatar invites grandparents and grandchildren to connect through wellness consultations, storytelling, cooking classes and gentle spa rituals.

n Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland offers a 550sqm family wellness facility with multi-level water zones, mermaid swimming and Alpine-inspired play areas.

n Tri Vananda in Phuket, Thailand is purpose-built for multigenerational living, offering shared fitness facilities, nature-filled communal spaces, a youth club, a mindfulness centre and a wellness-focused community house.

n Each of these properties shows how thoughtfully designed wellness spaces and programming can shift wellbeing from solitary indulgence to a shared, meaningful experience.

Currently, many spas are still for adults only, excluding under-18s to prioritise privacy and silence. This overlooks a valuable economic and experiential opportunity. The GWI reports that multigenerational travellers account for about 35 per cent of wellness tourism, with Millennials and Gen X driving nearly 70 per cent of these decisions. They seek family-focused, purpose-driven experiences that redefine hospitality. Designing programmes and spaces for all ages expands reach, boosts occupancy and builds lasting emotional connections. Imagine a teen discovering contrast bathing, a grandparent improving their balance and a parent’s stress melting as they all share a sound bath. Add in a focus on cognitive health, sleep and movement, relevant to all generations, and you create a wellness destination that unites rather than excludes.

“At Under a Tree, we collaborate with developers to envision wellness communities where shared experiences are central.” Amy McDonald Founder, Under a Tree

The role of community

Wellness real estate and clubs are ideal settings to embed intergenerational wellness. These aren’t just venues for services, they’re living ecosystems. Every corridor, hydrotherapy circuit, movement studio, garden and café becomes a space for connection.

According to the GWI’s Build Well to Live Well report, communities built around intergenerational wellness principles are not only more vibrant, connected and resilient but can command a 15-25 per cent premium.

At Under a Tree, we collaborate with developers to envision wellness communities where shared experiences are central – saunas that invite storytelling, wellness kitchens and

trails designed for varying levels of mobility. Inclusive design means paying attention to every detail, from circadian lighting to safe, stimulating water therapies.

A sense of belonging

As Blue Zones research reveals, one of the most powerful contributors to longevity isn’t diet or exercise – it’s a sense of belonging. In regions where people regularly live past 100, connection isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. We must stop dividing generations and start designing experiences for how people truly live. We’re not just building spas; we’re shaping a cultural narrative around what it means to be well.

Business Insight Amy McDonald, Under a Tree

Above from left: active engagement for children at Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som; facilities at Grand Resort Bad Ragaz in Switzerland include multi-level water zones for all ages

WellnessTrends

EUROPEAN SPA SPOTLIGHTS THE LATEST GLOBAL TRENDS AND NEWS

Edited by Mark Smith

Irene Forte unveils Blue Zone-inspired longevity retreat

The Irene Forte Spa at Verdura Resort, a Rocco Forte Hotel, in Italy has a new Longevity Programme inspired by Caltabellotta, an emerging Blue Zone community in the Sicilian mountains. Influenced by the research of professors Gianni Pes and Calogero Caruso, Irene Forte, who is an honorary citizen of Caltabellotta, which is just 22km from Verdura Resort, has created a way to connect guests with the region’s rare natural rhythms and lifestyle practices.

Immersed in change

The Longevity Programme integrates the latest diagnostics, including blood panel analysis, Vega food sensitivity testing and wellness age evaluations. Sicilian healing traditions, soil-to-table produce, natural therapies and gentle movement in nature are complemented by results orientated Irene Forte Skincare treatments. Movement is a cornerstone of the programme and guests

enjoy a trek through the Sicani hills, followed by a traditional lunch, introducing them to the landscape now recognised for its contribution to healthy ageing.

The programme is available over six or ten days and includes spa access and a range of therapeutic spa treatments. Insights gained throughout the programme are encouraged to be integrated into positive lifestyle changes once guests return home. www.roccofortehotels.com/hotels-and-resorts/verdura-resort/

“The Longevity Programme is designed to elevate mood, enhance mental clarity, boost energy, build strength, support immunity and promote long-term vitality.”

Irene Forte Wellness consultant, Rocco Forte Hotels and founder, Irene Forte Skincare

A return to herbalism

As consumers seek alternative solutions to health issues, spas are partnering with expert herbalists to integrate traditional practices and remedies for a truly personalised outcomes

Spas are increasingly embracing resident herbalists to satisfy growing consumer demand for holistic health solutions to combat modern stress and burnout.

Businesses are seeking new ways to integrate traditional practices, herbal remedies and plant-based treatments to offer personalised, holistic wellness experiences for guests.

Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp in Belgium was one of the pioneers of this renaissance in herbal healing. Set within the walls of an ancient monastery, where monks and nuns would grow plants and herbs for remedial purposes, the spa works with Viennese brand Saint Charles.

Each product and experience delivered is said to reflect respect for naturopathic wisdom, fused with the latest research in health and wellness.

Holistic help for all life stages

At Hôtel du Couvent in Nice, France, the former Couvent de la Visitation Sainte-Claire, built by the Clarisse nuns in 1604, has been restored to create a beautiful hotel and Roman-inspired thermal baths. Resident herbalist Gregory Unrein from Nice Organic provides personalised treatments, teas and tinctures in the apothecary made from herbs picked from the garden.

Guests seek help for a variety of reasons from stress, anxiety, burnout,

digestive issues, sleep to weight management and overall vitality.

“A major area of growing attention is women’s health,” says Unrein. “In recent years, there has been increasing demand for natural support for conditions at every stage of life, from endometriosis and hormonal balance to perimenopause and menopause.”

Unrein believes that there are a number of driving factors behind this newfound popularity. “The renewed interest in herbalism can be explained by a broader cultural shift,” he says. “Many people are looking for authentic, natural alternatives to synthetic solutions, inspired by traditions yet validated by modern knowledge.”

In Italy, the renowned Borgo Santo Pietro, home to skincare brand Seed to Skin Tuscany, is also seeing a growth in demand for herbal solutions to health concerns. The property offers a year long herbal masterclass, online and in person, in collaboration with renowned herbal doctor Anne McIntyre.

“It’s an immersive journey into herbal medicine designed for those who truly want to deepen their knowledge and practice,” says Jeanette Gron Thottrup, owner of Borgo Santo Pietro and founder of Seed To Skin Tuscany.

Connecting to the land

Aegialis Hotel & Spa Amorgós in Greece offers tours of the island’s diverse flora, including some 600 plant species, and guests learn about the medicinal properties and uses of local herbs.

The Spa at Waldhof Fuschlsee Resort in Austria places herbs at the core of its offering, making spa products

“Borgo

Santo Pietro offers an immersive journey into herbal medicine designed for those who truly want to deepen their knowledge and practice.”

and tinctures on site. It offers guests the opportunity to learn about plant medicine during a series of workshops.

In the cape winelands region of South Africa, the Spa at Spier Hotel has a tranquil apothecary courtyard surrounded by fynbos gardens filled with indigenous plants. The spa is guided by a resident herbalist who uses herbs grown on the farm to create teas, tinctures, and oils rooted in traditional plant medicine.

From country to city

In the UK, Cromlix in Scotland has been offering workshops where guests can learn about the health properties of different mineral salts, essential oils and herbs. During the programme they create their own, take-home

spa salts and tailored tea blends.

In London, Cloud Twelve Club places plant remedies at the heart of its offering. Founder Jenya Di Pierro is a herbalist and a naturopath who has witnessed the growth in interest.

“People are becoming increasingly conscious of their health and wellbeing, and they want to take a more active role in it,” Di Pierro explains. “Herbalism offers a way to work with the body rather than against it – supporting natural processes, strengthening resilience and addressing the root causes of imbalance.”

www.hotelducouvent.com | www.borgosantopietro.com www.amorgos-aegialis.com | www.waldhof-fuschlsee.at | www.spier.co.za www.cromlix.com | www.cloudtwelve.co.uk | www.botanicantwerp.be

Herbal health boost

Clockwise from far left: Foraging at Cromlix in Scotland; herbal remedies at Waldhof Fuschlsee Resort in Austria; Borgo Santo Pietro, Italy offers a herbal masterclass; Hôtel du Couvent in Nice, France; a Seed to Skin Tuscany ritual

Jeanette Coren Thottrup Owner, Borgo Santo Pietro

7Pines Resort Ibiza boosts preventative and regenerative health offering

7Pines Resort Ibiza has collaborated with Longevity, a leader in preventative and regenerative health, to expand the wellness offering at Pure Seven Spa. The partnership takes medical-grade diagnostics and cutting-edge regenerative treatments to Ibiza in the shape of LongevityAssist and Cryopoint therapy.

The spa will offer Longevity’s pioneering medical grade wellness treatments, integrating advanced technology, targeted therapies and personalised programmes that support healthy ageing, metabolic health, immune resilience and long-term vitality.

Cryotherapy is a cornerstone alongside epigenetic coaching and analysis and optimisation of gene expression through targeted interventions from nutrition, recovery and activity to mindset.

Additional therapies target inflammation, fatigue, immune strength and general optimisation, complementing the spa’s existing body and mind-focused rituals. These include NAD+ IV infusions, Armstrong Magnetic Muscle Stimulation and red light and BOA lymphatic therapy.

https://7pines.com

Beaverbrook welcomes guests to a spiritual retreat with Tibetan monk

Luxury UK hotel and spa Beaverbrook recently welcomed Tibetan monk, master Bön lama, Geshe YongDong Losar (Geshela), to the Surrey estate for an exclusive, deeply spiritual five-day residency.

Having begun his spiritual journey at the age of 13, Geshela is a published author and teacher. During the residency he led dedicated workshops for members and guests using traditional Tibetan techniques, offering a unique opportunity to be immersed in ancient spiritual practices. These included preparation for meditation, calm breathing techniques, calm mind practices and exploration of the three levels of breath.

Participants also enjoyed Tibetan techniques such as Tsa Lung (breathwork combined with specialised movement), as well as sessions to open the chakras using the mantra of the five warriors. The morning and evening sessions with Geshela were complimentary for guests and members, while the afternoon sessions were chargeable. A Spiritual Weekend Retreat was also offered. www.beaverbrook.co.uk

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Broughton Sanctuary launches programme for highly sensitive people

Broughton Sanctuary in the UK is to run the Sense Retreat, a four-night immersive experience designed for highly sensitive people who experience their worlds deeply, including empaths, creatives, intuitives, neurodivergent, or simply as seekers of depth and authenticity.

Retreat facilitators Catherine Asta and Kirsty Allan guide guests on a journey of restoration, exploration and personal empowerment.

As well as deep intuition, creativity, empathy and perception, sensitivity can bring challenges too – for example, being overwhelmed, misunderstood and sometimes experiencing internal shame.

Through a unique blend of science, somatics, philosophy, creativity and nature-based practices, the retreat provides space to embrace sensitivity, rather than manage or suppress it. Workshops, talks and creative experiences allow attendees to explore the deeper dimensions of their trait, and the sessions are designed to cultivate self-understanding and emotional resilience. www.broughtonsanctuary.co.uk

Palace Merano innovates with athletic rehabilitation and optimisation

The new Revital Sport & Recovery Programme Palace Merano in Italy is designed for active individuals seeking expert-led rehabilitation and performance optimisation. The initiative begins with comprehensive diagnostics, including postural assessment to identify imbalances or misalignments that could lead to pain or injury.

A 3D AI-powered camera provides biomechanical analysis of movement patterns, helping to optimse athletic performance and prevent injuries. Cognitive function evaluation assesses mental agility, focus and stress resilience. Total body densitometry enables precise body composition analysis on fat, muscle and bone composition, helping the team to create tailored fitness and nutrition plans.

A personalised training and treatment phase includes one-to-one sessions with an athletic coach and personal trainer, cognitive performance training and medical and nutritional consultations. Dry floating therapy and CryoBody treatments for stress, pain relief and reducing inflammation complement sports energy massages and hydro-mud therapy. www.palace.it

0121 7739091 / 7720936

info@majestictowels.co.uk

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Working for transformative change

We talk to integrative healing expert Phil Davies about his unique approach to self-improvement

Phil Davies is an integrative healing expert who works to reduce the intensity of emotional, energetic and psychological patterns. In addition to one-to-one sessions in person and online, he is a visiting practitioner at global wellness hotels and retreats owned by Four Seasons, Kamalaya, Marriott Bonvoy, IHG, NIHI Sumba and Chiva-Som.

How do you help spa guests to self-improve?

I integrate clinical hypnosis, emotional freedom techniques and vibrational attunement to facilitate rapid and profound change. Together, the guest and I define what needs to change, the desired outcome and how we will know it has been achieved. We use visual, auditory and kinaesthetic markers to bridge directly to the ‘injured part of self’ for rapid and lasting relief.

The work is validated through past, present and future pacing: comparing how the guest previously responded to the issue, how they respond now, and how they would respond to

“We use visual, auditory and kinaesthetic markers to bridge directly to the ‘injured part of self’ for rapid and lasting relief.”

a future trigger. Once all three align with the session’s goals, we can be quite confident that significant lasting change has occurred.

What are the benefits of your approach?

The primary benefit is profound, lasting change achieved with remarkable efficiency. Guests often experience significant relief from issues like trauma, stress, anxiety, phobias and limiting beliefs in just one session, where traditional approaches might take months.

How are your services suited to spas?

Today’s luxury wellness client is time-sensitive and results-driven. Guests now seek highly personalised, efficient and transformative solutions. There is growing recognition that innovative, evidence-based approaches like ours provide a more direct and effective path to wellbeing, perfectly meeting the demand for rapid and meaningful resolution. www.phil-davies.com

Phil Davies

This page: Phil Davies’ approach to therapy identifies kinaesthetic markers – body signals that reveal where emotional pain is held

SpaStyle

SHOWCASING STYLISH EQUIPMENT AND LEADING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY FOR YOUR SPA

Edited by Wendy Golledge

Gongmatic blends ancient instruments with technology

Featuring in Hagastrand, a new Nordic destination for wellness and social connection in Stockholm, Sweden, Gongmatic is a unique self-playing installation that combines ancient gongs with modern technology to create an immersive sound and light experience.

The project was developed by Grotta Sonora – an Italian instrument studio located inside a 3,000-year-old volcanic cave in Italy – alongside programmer and sound explorer Simon Morris.

Gongmatic is a resonating art piece that uses hand-tuned gongs and custom-built resonance technology to generate deeply immersive soundscapes

without human touch or speakers.

Each gong is tuned to a natural resonant frequency and activated using custom-built technology in real time, producing sustained, layered, evolving tones that move through the room.

“This is for people who don’t have time to slow down, but need to,” says

co-creator Margherita Cioffi. “Walk in, lie down and let the sound do the rest.”

The brand’s first installation outside Italy, at Hagastrand, features in a room with ceramic loungers by Sommerhuber.

“Hagastrand is a place for slowing down, finding tranquillity and indulging in a wellness journey beyond the ordinary, so the Gongmatic installation is a perfect addition,” says Alla Sokolova, head of wellness at Nobis Hospitality Group, which is developing Hagastrand.

“It is humbling to work with such an amazing, diverse and talented team to bring this sacred space to life.” www.gongmatic.com

EDITOR’S PICK

Harmony Lounge

Lemi Group

An immersive wellness experience for pre and post treatment relaxation, Lemi’s Harmony Lounge envelops the guest’s body in a sensory experience.

It is available in two models – an ergonomically designed standard recliner that features electronic tilting and a premium model that adds an integrated heating system and vibro-acoustic technology – transmitting vibrations through numerous zones in the lounger’s memory foam mattress.

Specially designed melodies can be controlled by Lemi’s VibroMusic app, which has five colour-coded options for various multi-sensory experiences designed to stimulate a different part of the body to improve sleep, stimulate the lymphatic system, alleviate pain, enhance wellbeing and improve blood circulation.

Lemi has teamed up with Irish skincare brand Voya to create three guided paths that combine the meditative effects of the Harmony Lounge with Voya’s seaweed based organic products, so spas featuring both brands can offer tailored audio relaxation treatments. www.lemispa.com

Spa cabanas

Woodberry of Leamington Spa

The Solent Hotel & Spa in Fareham, UK has revealed new spa cabanas by Woodberry of Leamington Spa, installed as part of a multi-million-pound makeover of the hotel.

Selected by interior designers Langdale Chase, the new nautically styled cabanas build upon the spa design, which draws inspiration from the hotel’s coastal location, and include striped relaxation beds.

Woodberry designs, supplies and installs bespoke commercial weather-resistant outdoor cabins and cabanas made from metal and FSC-certified timber.

As part of the renovations, the Solent Hotel & Spa also refurbished its pool hall with a salt wall sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi, storm shower and new pool.

“We’ve created a layered wellness experience with ASD Construction and DaleSauna, which extends from indoors to outdoors,” said Gemma Barratt, group spa director at hotel owner Thwaites. “The cabanas add an extra dimension to our offering by creating a dedicated retreat where guests can unwind in the restorative calm of the outdoors.”

www.woodberry.co.uk

KLAFS marries form and function at art’otel London Hoxton

The leading sauna manufacturer has supplied a unique thermal wellness solution at the newly opened hotel, with an illuminated pool by Guncast Pools & Wellness

Based on four pillars of wellness, the wet areas in the newly unveiled Spa at art’otel London Hoxton have been installed by KLAFS and Guncast Pools & Wellness. The offering is centred around the principles focus, sleep, movement and environment.

In addition to a custom-made sauna and steam room by KLAFS, a tailored 12m indoor swimming pool by Guncast is set within a minimalist, monochrome space, defined by striking modern lines and four integrated underwater lights.

Designed to meet the spatial, functional and aesthetic demands of art’otel, the sauna features

a U-shaped, two-tier bench to maximise comfort and guest capacity, crated from Obeche, a wood renowned for its low thermal conductivity.

“We’re proud to be partnering on premium commercial projects like art’otel London Hoxton,” said Gilles Darmon, director of KLAFS UK. “Our focus is always on precision, performance and delivering wellness environments that are functional and beautiful.”

The steam room features KLAFS’ OPTISTEAM technology, which produces a rich, enveloping steam with high water and energy efficiency. Double-insulated ceilings and advanced control systems reduce heat loss and energy consumption.

“It’s a privilege to collaborate with hotels that place real emphasis on craftsmanship, guest experience and design integrity,” said Andy Carr, CEO of Guncast Group. www.klafs.co.uk | www.guncast.com

Gilles Darmon

BRAND TO WATCH

Sauna Barrel Arvid

Polhus

Founded in Sweden in 2001, Polhus is based in Malmo and specialises in knot-timbered wooden saunas. Produced in Estonia, it’s Sauna Barrel Arvid is a cosy sauna for up to four people.

The Arvid has recently been installed as a mountainside attraction at the boutique Welsh hotel Plas Weunydd, in the foothills of Eryri (Snowdonia).

With easy assembly and the option of either an electric or a wood-burning heater, the Arvid is ideal for remote, disconnected locations or spas wishing to offer guests the chance to switch off, step back, reconnect with nature and embrace the art of slow travel. Its stand-alone nature makes it ideal for spa gardens and areas without easy access to mains electricity.

Polhus also supplies elegant cold tubs to complement its saunas. The tubs are made with ThermoWood panels – a thermal treatment that makes the wood weather-resistant and gives it a dark hue. Production is in the Baltics and Polhus ships throughout Europe. www.polhus.co.uk

Zenbot Salon Morph Inn

Bridgestone

Global tyre manufacturer Bridgestone has made a foray into the wellness world with the unique Zenbot Salon Morph Inn robot, which combines Japanese quirkiness with soft robotics to offer a completely new experience.

Zenbot Salon Morph Inn comprises a series of soft, artificial muscles, powered by air, which envelop the client and use haptic technology to perform gently soothing massage-like movements.

It has a soft-textured vegan leather covering and modular design, consisting of three enclosures, for use individually, in pairs or as a three-part recliner.

The brainchild of Bridgestone’s in-house start-up, Bridgestone Softrobotics Ventures, the Morph Inn was unveiled at Milan Design Week 2025 to bring soft robotics into the wellness sector.

Bridgestone is now collaborating with creator group Konel to introduce pop-up Morph Inns across Tokyo, where people can use the robot’s technology to create ‘time to become nothing’ and enjoy the feeling of being freed from purpose.

www.bridgestone.co.jp/products/softrobotics/morphinn

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Hard Rock Hotels unites music with technology and touch

The pioneering Rhythm & Motion treatment series at the brand’s Rock Spas include curated playlists and vibrational technology for an immersive experience

Replacing the traditional spa soundtrack, Hard Rock Hotels’ signature Rhythm & Motion treatments – available at the brand’s Rock Spas – are accompanied by a curated playlist designed to match and enhance the massage techniques being used.

A unique Speaker Dome system then combines with transducers in the treatment table as deep bass notes ripple up through the body while treble tones and melodic textures float down from above, creating audio immersion.

Guests can choose the playlist they’re most drawn to – from ambient and restorative to beat-driven and energising – each crafted so the music becomes as essential as the massage itself.

“The magic happens through a proprietary system created for and by Hard Rock, blending advanced sound and vibration technology into the treatment table and surrounding environment,” says John P Rees, senior vice-president, hotel operations, at Hard Rock International. “The Speaker Dome system, positioned overhead, works in harmony with bass transducers built into the table to deliver a full-body sound experience.”

Rhythm & Motion can be found at Rock Spas in Ibiza, Tenerife and Marbella, Spain; Penang, Malaysia; Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; and Riviera Maya, Mexico. https://hotel.hardrock.com/rhythm-and-motion.aspx

John P Rees

INNOVATION FOCUS

Nurosym

Parasym

A useful device for combining with spa treatment menus or as a retail option, Nurosym targets the vagus nerve with electrical impulses to bring about lasting calm and improved energy.

The vagus nerve controls all body functions, from breathing and heart rate to digestion, energy and mood. If the nerve isn’t functioning well, bodily systems will not work in harmony, which can lead to poor physical and mental health. By modulating the nerve’s activity, Nurosym can help restore balance.

The micro-electrical impulses are delivered by an in-ear device that uses advanced neuromodulation technology, activating specific therapeutic mechanisms that can counter dysregulation in the nervous system. Nurosym claims to increase parasympathetic nervous system activity and reduce inflammation. It is backed by a robust body of clinical evidence and can be used before sleep, during meditation to promote relaxation and increased heart rate variability, or during treatments to release tension and increase focus, concentration and flow. https://nurosym.com

Hydrotherapy pools

DaleSauna

As part of a £17m (€18.5m) refurbishment of the Grand Hotel in Brighton, UK, thermal specialist DaleSauna has designed and installed the new thermal experiences for the £2.5m, 699sqm spa, named L. Raphael Beauty Spa & Wellness, in the hotel’s basement.

Dean Edwards, southern sales manager at DaleSauna, said: “We worked with Gurada Design to develop the scheme and interior finishes for the thermal spa area. The installation features a bespoke hydrotherapy pool with hydro jets, air nozzles and a neck massage cannon, with a bespoke sauna finished in thermo-ayous timber.”

Experience showers in mosaic enclosures with wall-mounted jets produce 50 litres of water a minute, while the aromatherapy steam room features ambient mood lighting, ergonomic bench seating and heated walls to maintain a gentle 40˚C. www.dalesauna.co.uk

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

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