For spa lovers looking to relax and rejuvenate between Oympic 2012 extravaganzas, BodyandSoulHolidays.com recommends the rising stars and unmissable spa experiences available in and around London during this summer’s Olympic Games.
Rising Stars:
ESPA Life at Corinthia
Chic, elegant, and uber hot, this sumptuous newcomer to the city’s spascape has literally taken London by storm. Think champagne and chandeliers, Calacatta gold mixed with black Italian marble, shiny chrome, glossy surfaces and circular energy abounding. The sensual and secluded ESPA Life at Corinthia near Trafalgar Square is a 3,300 sq m spa spread over four floors and features an extraordinary Thermal level with shimmering silver pool, Amphitheatre sauna surrounded by four glass sides, Vitality pool, black mosaic steam room, ice fountain, plus heated marble loungers set in front of stone fireplaces. A state of the art gym, nail salon, exclusive Daniel Galvin Hair Salon, plus a team of Espa Life medical and alternative health experts who will tailor make experiences to your individual needs, round out this 5-star spa facility. Grab Espa Life’s age-defying facials or ‘Rush Hour Beauty’ treatments to perk you up between Olympic events or just come to see and be seen at London’s most opulent and stylish new spa on the block.
St Pancras Spa
The newly renovated St Pancras Spa with its rose-patterned tiles and rustic piping is one of London’s best kept subterranean secrets. Tucked beneath the city’s bustling transportation centre, this Victorian gothic marvel has been lovingly restored and now offers visitors their very own ‘ticket to tranquility’. Indulge yourself on a Victorian spa journey that promises to transport you to Africa, or India, or the Far East and back again, rested, rejuvenated and ready for another round of Olympic sightseeing. When you’re done, kick back in the spa’s delicately tiled pool and let its spine-tingling bubbles whisk away your modern troubles. Whatever ritual you choose, you’re in for a royal treat here, steeped in history, romance and relaxation like no other spa in London.
Guaranteed Gold Medalists:
The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental
A longtime favourite of the Body and Soul Holidays staff, The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park offers London’s most consistently tranquil and soothing spa experience. Spa goers are encouraged to arrive at least 45 minutes before their scheduled treatment so that they can relax and unwind in the Amethyst Crystal Steam Room, Sanarium, Vitality Pool and Zen Colour Therapy Room before beginning their treatment. Imagine being wrapped in your very own cocoon of bliss as you float your way through each room with the feeling of being the only one there. First-class therapists will come and find you and work with you to create an unforgettable spa experience suited to your personal taste and requirements. An urban oasis to rev you up or wind you down from the world class shopping right across the street at Harvey Nix and Harrods.
The Dorchester Hotel Spa
Completely transformed in 2009, the stunning Dorchester Spa sports a 1930s Art Deco vibe with a contemporary edge. Signature facials are by Carol Joy London. The spa also features nine spacious and sound-proof treatment rooms including two double suites, a manicure-pedicure suite, a sleek relaxation room, male and female aromatic steam rooms and male and female experience showers. The Dorchester’s Spa and Tea package offers the quintessential British spa experience in the heart of London.
Agua Spa at the Sanderson
A hedonist’s delight, the 10,000 square-foot Agua Spa in London provides pampering, spiritual relief, and tranquility to all who enter. A dazzling array of rejuvenating treatments combining the best of ancient and modern techniques are offered. With its miles of diaphanous white curtains, 14 all-white treatment rooms, chill-out zone and meditation beds, agua has a peaceful, dreamy and almost cloud-like ambiance.
Olympic Sprinters (Day Spas):
If you only have an hour or so to spare and need a spot of relief, here are a few day spas guaranteed to provide instant Olympic-sized respite:
Beyond Medispa
located in Harvey Nichols with a team of full-time Doctors and experienced Medical Aestheticians
EFMedispa
with locations in Kensington, Chelsea, and St John’s Wood
Eve Lom
London’s “Queen of Cleansing” and one of the world’s most sought after facialists for good reason.
Urban Retreat at Harrods
the ultimate one-stop health and beauty salon with medispa
Middle Distance Medalists:
Further afield but not to be missed.
Chewton Glen Spa
a five star ILA spa that introduces their fabulous TreeHouse Suites this August
Grayshott Spa
a long standing favourite for five star pampering in the British countryside
Lucknam Park Hotel and Spa
where you can pretend you’re competing in your own personal Olympics at this 500 acre country estate near Bath.
