In the old days, the term ‘spa’ meant a place with mineral
springs utilised for relaxing and healing the body. These days, the term is loosely used when referring to a wellness retreat, health hydro or a health farm.
Nature an Essential Ingredient
The concept of the wellness spa was essentially perfected in Europe, however, the advent of the African spa has taken on a whole new meaning. African people have known the powers of nature’s healing for centuries and the African Spa concept almost always uses nature as part of its offering – whether it’s the setting, the natural products used or the treatments. Old African healing traditions also form part of some of the spa programmes, in addition to the modern-day technologies used at some of the best wellness retreats in the world.
The ‘Bush Spa’
South Africa’s spa culture has come of age. Certainly this country is the leader on the continent when it comes to the wealth and variety of spa retreats available. In fact, it was South Africa that reinvented the ‘Bush Spa’ concept so much so that international magazines continually acknowledge our local spas for their innovation in the wellness arena (and, of course, our home-grown treatments and products).
Here are a few of our favourite African spas:
The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Situated in the Cape, between Bantry Bay and Llandundno, the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa was awarded 6th place in the Conde Nast Traveller Magazine 2006 Reader’s Awards for Best Overseas Hotel Spas. The reasons for the accolades are well founded:
The location is simply superb as the Twelve Apostles is situated between the mountains and the sea – offering visitors the best of both. The Sanctuary Spa combines earth, air and water to replenish body, mind and soul. Treatment packages make use of the Moya range (a locally-created fynbos essential oil product range). Guests can relax at the rock pools, or enjoy treatments in the 2 secluded mountain gazebos. The gazebos are cleverly designed – ensuring maximum privacy and maximum views.
The Signature Treatment is the Moya Crystal Massage – the home-grown version of hot-stone therapy using crystals sourced from Africa.
Bushmanskoof Wilderness and Retreat
Another Western Cape wonder, Bushmanskloof offers a fantastic getaway option for the more spiritually minded. Meditation and yoga retreats are on offer 2-3 times a year – and these are extremely popular with international visitors. The retreats are a combination of rock art walks, nature drives, and yoga as well as meditation sessions throughout the weekend. The environment is restful with wide open spaces at the foot of the Cederberg mountains and incredible rock art that gets one instantly in touch with the ancestors.
Singita Lebombo & Camelot Earth Nature Spa
The Mpumalanga region is renowned for a number of exquisite African bush spas. Places like Singita Lebombo (Kruger National Park) and the Camelot Earth Nature Spa at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge boast a wonderful combination of wild African bush and soothing treatments adapted locally for the ultimate wellness experience. Both properties have won international awards for excellence.
Cybele Forest Lodge and Spa
Not too far away from the Sabi Sands, you’ll find Cybele Forest Lodge and Spa. The establishment offers Africa’s very best forest spa experience, with a wide range of treatments available. Assist your wellness regime with walks in the nearby woods and enjoy health meals created by the skilled Cybele chefs.
Falaza Spa & Fourdon Spa
The KwaZulu-Natal province is also gaining kudos for its wellness retreats. The Falaza Spa is a sure bet. Found in the Hluhluwe wildlife region, you can go on a game drive and spot the Big Five, followed by a stress-defying massage under the trees – with the birdlife serenade a complimentary addition to your treatment. The new Fourdon Spa in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is also making waves in wellness circles. Look out for their African Adventure packages.
Magwanani Day Spa
Magwanani Day Spa is particularly popular with those who live in the Gauteng region. Classically a day spa, this retreat is situated in the shadow of the Schurveberg Mountains (near Midrand and Pretoria). Treatments are founded on traditional African healing rituals. Try the African sand, Milk and honey treatment or the African bridal ceremony treatment.
Acclaimed for the ultimate African spa experience, South Africa promises you’ll leave refreshed and rejuvenated. In addition to the featured African spas, a number of safari lodges throughout the country boast mini-spas for use by guests and city spas in the major centres are also worth a visit.
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