Unwinding In Style: A Guide To Making The Most Of Your Spa Experience

There are many things to do in Spa, Belgium, to help you relax and recharge. The town is home to numerous natural springs and rivers, as well as well-conserved woodlands and the famed Ardennes Mountains. Spa has something for everyone, whether you're looking for tranquil spaces or thrilling adventures.

You can revitalise yourself at Thermes de Spa, a modern spa facility offering a range of health and beauty treatments, including hydrotherapy, steam baths, massages, meditation and facials. The water used in their therapies comes from Clementine Spring, famous for its organic minerals that are good for the skin.

If you're feeling lucky, you can try your hand at the Casino de Spa, the oldest casino in Belgium. Here, you can enjoy traditional betting games such as blackjack, roulette, poker and slot machines.

For a thrilling experience, head to SpaForest, where you can try activities such as ziplining, tree climbing and Nordic walking. You can also test your courage at the high cable centre and try archery and other mind-sharpening sports.

If you're a fan of racing, don't miss the famous grand prix at Spa-Francorchamps. This racetrack offers stunning views and is a perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photos.

To learn about the history of laundry, visit the Musee de la Lessive, which showcases ancient artefacts like primitive washing machines made from rigid wood.

Unwind at Domain Berinzenne, a historic and serene natural spot that is a favourite among tourists for relaxation and self-reflection. The area also offers several attractions, such as the Panoramic Tower of Berinzenne, the Forest and Water Museum, and a lake for fishing and boat-roaming.

Indulge in some delicious Belgian cuisine at L’O De Source Restaurant, where you can savour authentic delicacies like tartare de veau and sarté et oxalis.

Experience the magic of Pouhon Pierre le Grand, a spring believed to cure emotional uneasiness and skin problems due to its high mineral content.

There is plenty more to discover in Spa, Belgium, from factory tours to chocolate delights and natural wonders. So, whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Spa has something for everyone.

Spa treatments: massages, body wraps, scalp rubs, facials, nail treatments

Spa treatments are a great way to unwind and relax, and there are many options to choose from. Here are some detailed descriptions of the treatments on offer:

Massages

Massages are a popular choice for spa-goers, with many different types available. Swedish massages are a classic option, offering a relaxing experience. Deep tissue massages are ideal for those with tense muscles or damaged soft tissues, providing a more intense experience. Sports massages are also available for athletes or active individuals. Other varieties include Thai, hot stone, and prenatal massages. Massages can be tailored to your preferences, with options for light or firm pressure and the use of essential oils.

Body Wraps

Body wraps are an excellent treatment for those looking to detoxify and rejuvenate their skin. The M'lis Contour Body Wrap, for example, helps remove trapped waste and stimulates inch loss. The treatment includes a complimentary body measurement and can be paired with a European facial for a customized experience. Wraps are often sold in a series of treatments to maximize their benefits.

Scalp Rubs

Scalp rubs, also known as head spas, have gained popularity on social media platforms like TikTok. This treatment is like a facial for your head, offering a relaxing and indulgent experience. It involves a scalp massage, often with essential oils, to stimulate pressure points and improve scalp health. The treatment can be especially beneficial for those experiencing scalp issues like dermatitis or hair loss.

Facials

Facials are a must-have for any spa-goer, offering a range of benefits for your skin. The European facial is a classic, common type that includes cleansing, exfoliation, steam, extractions, a massage, a soothing mask, and moisturizer with sunblock. LED light therapy facials use different wavelengths of light to stimulate collagen production and kill acne-causing bacteria. Oxygen facials are ideal for a quick pre-event pick-me-up, plumping and lifting the skin without causing redness. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels are also available to treat specific skin concerns like fine lines, sun damage, and acne.

Nail Treatments

Nail care is an important part of the spa experience, offering both aesthetic and sanitary benefits. At Sand Spa, for example, they offer nail services that prioritize sterilization and the use of disposable tools. Their nail treatments can be customized with unique enhancements, and they also offer add-ons like waxing, eyelash extensions, and brow shaping.

With so many options available, you can create a spa experience tailored to your specific needs and interests.

Spa etiquette: what to wear, when to arrive, what to bring, how to act

What to Wear

Most spas provide guests with robes and slippers to change into. If they don't, it's worth checking with the spa whether you should bring your own. If you're wearing your own clothes, opt for something comfortable and loose-fitting that allows for easy movement. It's also best to avoid wearing makeup and jewellery, as these may need to be removed during certain treatments.

When to Arrive

It's important to arrive on time for your appointment to avoid inconveniencing other clients. It's recommended that you arrive at least 15 minutes early to fill out any necessary paperwork and to allow yourself time to relax and unwind before your treatment.

What to Bring

If you're planning on using the spa's pool or hydrotherapy facilities, bring a bathing suit and a pair of clean flip-flops or sliders. You may also want to bring two sets of swimwear so you can change into something dry at lunchtime or before enjoying the spa's dry areas.

How to Act

The spa is a place for relaxation and rejuvenation, so it's important to be mindful of others and maintain a quiet atmosphere. Keep personal items, including phones, stowed away in a locker, and refrain from taking photos or videos during your spa break. Most spas will have a quiet space or relaxation room where guests can rest and unwind, so it's polite to refrain from talking in these areas.

Spa activities: yoga, tai chi, horse riding, cooking classes, sports

Yoga, tai chi, horse riding, cooking classes, and sports are all activities that can be enjoyed at a spa.

Yoga

Yoga is a popular activity at spas, with many offering classes to suit all styles and needs. Yoga is a great way to balance the body and infuse the soul. Some spas, like Champneys, offer a range of yoga classes, including running and Nordic walking retreats. Yoga retreats can be a great way to kick off a new healthy lifestyle regime, with top experts in their field leading workshops, motivational talks, and one-to-one sessions.

Tai Chi

Wellbeing-focused classes such as tai chi are also commonly offered at spas. This activity can be done outdoors in sunny weather, giving you the feel of a health retreat. Bannatyne's Kingsford Park in Colchester, for example, offers tai chi on the lawn.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is another activity that can be enjoyed at spas, especially those located in country hotels or surrounded by nature. Lucknam Park, for instance, has a famous riding school in its grounds. Hotel L'Hermitage offers horse riding on the beach—a unique experience for seasoned and amateur riders alike.

Cooking Classes

Some spas cater to foodies and novice chefs by offering culinary courses alongside spa treatments and fitness pursuits. These include the Cal-a-Vie Health Spa in Vista, CA, Canyon Ranch in Tucson, AZ, and Chiva-Som in Hua Hin, Thailand.

Sports

Spas often offer a range of sports activities, from tennis and cycling to dancing and shooting. Many spas are attached to golf clubs, like The Belfry, Stoke Park, and Gleneagles. Pennyhill Park offers a range of sports activities, including off-roading, pistol shooting, and archery. Spas with health clubs may also provide impressive personal trainers to help you improve your fitness.

Spa and fitness: boot camps, running retreats, yoga retreats, pilates, golf

Spa and fitness retreats are a great way to renew yourself and return home feeling better than when you left. Here are some ideas for spa and fitness activities to try:

Boot camps

Fitness boot camps are a great way to get in shape, with programs available in varied locations such as California, Mexico, and Florida. Boot camps typically involve intense workouts, nutritional education, and healthy meals. Some boot camps, like Bikini Boot Camp, also offer additional activities such as African dance, drumming lessons, and meditation sessions. For those looking for a more affordable option, there are camps in Scotland's Peak District National Park that offer the same hardcore training techniques at half the price.

Running retreats

If you're looking to improve your running practice, consider a running retreat. Run Wild Retreats and Wellness offers retreats all over the world, in locations like the Italian Dolomites and Utah's Moab. These retreats are designed to help women create a sustainable running practice that supports physical health and mental wellbeing. Participants should be able to run at least four to five miles at a time for Level I retreats or up to 11 miles for Level III retreats.

Yoga retreats

Yoga retreats are perfect for those looking to tone up, lose weight, or improve their body's capabilities. These retreats often combine yoga with other activities such as hiking, cycling, or surfing. For example, a 5-day wellness retreat on Evia Island, Greece, includes yoga, fitness, sound bath, and other activities. An 8-day retreat in Alicante, Spain, offers a similar experience with a focus on fitness and wellness.

Pilates retreats

Pilates reformer machine retreats have revolutionised the Pilates experience, offering added resistance for a more fun and challenging workout. Absolute Sanctuary in Thailand is a great option, offering state-of-the-art reformer machines and qualified guidance from experts to help you refine your Pilates practice. Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf & Spa in Portugal is another excellent choice, providing a blend of cardio, strength, and sport with mind and body renewal elements in a historic setting.

Golf

For golfers, The Greenbrier Resort offers a rejuvenating spa experience tailored specifically to golfers' needs. The spa offers deep tissue sports massages for tired muscles and facials designed to soothe sun-weary skin. The Golfer's Game Saver treatment includes a soak in the famous White Sulphur Springs waters, followed by a concentrated massage using warm heat packs to target and soothe specific areas of concern.

Spa and health: detoxing treatments, nutritional advice, steam rooms, saunas

Spa and health is a broad topic, and there are many ways to approach it. Here is a guide to detoxing treatments, nutritional advice, steam rooms, and saunas.

Detoxing Treatments

Detoxing treatments can take many forms, from dietary changes to therapeutic treatments. Some spas offer detox programmes that involve special diets, such as liquid diets or low-calorie meal plans. These diets aim to provide the body with only the most nutritious and beneficial foods to promote optimal health. Other spas may offer detox treatments such as hydrotherapy, aromatherapy, salt scrubs, and blitz showers, which aim to cleanse the mind, body, and soul from the build-up of toxins. Some spas also incorporate ancient practices such as Ayurvedic principles or Buddhist traditions into their detox programmes.

Nutritional Advice

Nutrition is an essential part of a spa experience focused on health and wellness. Many spas offer guidance on healthy eating and nutrition, often with the help of naturopaths or other experts. Some spas grow their own produce on-site and offer tailored meal plans to meet specific goals, such as detox and weight loss. Alcohol is sometimes limited, and the focus is on healthy, innovative, and tantalising fare that celebrates local heritage and international influences.

Steam Rooms and Saunas

Steam rooms and saunas are heated spaces that have been used throughout history for their therapeutic benefits. Steam rooms are typically kept around 110°F and are characterised by high humidity, creating a wet and tropical-like environment. In contrast, saunas use dry heat, usually from hot rocks or stoves, and have very low humidity. While both steam rooms and saunas provide health benefits, the key advantage of steam rooms lies in their humidity. The moist heat of steam rooms has been linked to improved circulation, reduced congestion, and the opening of pores to promote clearer skin. Additionally, the heat from both steam rooms and saunas can lead to improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and stress relief. However, it is important to be cautious when using steam rooms and saunas, as prolonged exposure can lead to dehydration and other adverse effects.

Frequently asked questions