It’s no secret that planning a wedding is stressful – not to mention all those nerves when your big day finally arrives! So between drawing up your guest list and going gown shopping, make some time to decompress at one of these soothing spas.
Cape Town
The Garden Spa, Babylonstoren
The setting: Situated on one of the oldest Dutch farms in SA, Babylonstoren is a slice of paradise in the picturesque Drakenstein Valley, between Franschhoek and Paarl. It remains a working farm today, offering wholesome, organic produce, gorgeous gardens and stunning views.
Treatment to try: Hammam Honey and Salt Scrub with Steam (R490 for 30 mins)
A restorative and healing full-body treatment, this invigorating scrub, soap wash and massage will buff your skin for a beautiful glow all the while calming any big-day nerves and releasing all that wedding-planning stress. (Sensitive to honey? There’s an equally fabulous Africology Body Scrub option available for you to try, too.)
Contact:021 863 3852, [email protected] or babylonstoren.com
Suntra Spa, 15 On Orange
The setting: This urban-chic spot is right in the heart of Cape Town, an oasis of calm amidst the hustle and bustle of the CBD, with an impressive Table Mountain backdrop. Minimalistic glass and a modern interior add up to a sophisticated, sleek setting.
Treatment to try: Fit For a Queen (R1 000 for 120 mins)
Indulge in some serious pampering thanks to the special Fit For a Queen treatment – ideal for any bride-to-be! Enjoy a Swedish massage followed by a classic, rejuvenating facial (sure to help you glow on your wedding day), plus a soothing scalp therapy. Our digital director Gillian Forbes had this to say when she tried out the treatment: “I have never felt more spoilt in my entire life. The scalp therapy was especially relaxing and I couldn’t have asked for a better way to decompress. I certainly recommend this treatment for any stressed bride-to-be – worth the spend!”
Contact:021 469 8062 or suntraspa.com
Fresh Wellness Spa, The Cellars-Hohenort
The setting: A glorious rose garden and beautiful Cape Dutch architecture greet you as you drive into The Cellars-Hohenhort grounds in leafy, lush Constantia, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into a private oasis.
Treatment to try: Signature Face & Body Glow (R1 300 for 150 mins)
The name of the treatment says it all: receive all the pampering you need to glow from head to toe, just in time for saying ‘I do’, as part of this package, which includes a foot cleansing ritual, a facial cleanse and exfoliation, a luxurious Pinotage and lime salt buff followed by a full-body massage, a HydraVine rich bath milk wrap and an incredible acupressure facial massage. Bliss!
Contact:021 794 2137 or collectionmcgrath.com/cellars/spa/
Joburg
Amani Spa (Crowne Plaza The Rosebank and Hyatt Regency)
The setting: Resident in two exclusive hotels in Joburg (not to mention Cape Town’s Waterfront and the Garden Route’s Knysna), Amani Spas are known for indulgent pampering wherever they’re situated. Expect soft lighting with earthy decor touches.
Treatment to try: Amani Body Polish (from R260 for 30 mins)
Achieve softer, more radiant skin thanks to this cleansing, exfoliating and moisturising treatment that buffs skin, stimulates circulation and assists your natural cell renewal process. Glowing complexion, here you come!
Contact:011 268 2060 or amanispas.co.za
Skinsense
The setting: Inspired by the mystical land of Bali, Skinsense has a tropical-paradise feel, with dark wood, exotic gardens and plenty of meditative statues encouraging you to relax and unwind.
Treatment to try: Energy Surge (R643.50 for 75 mins)
If there’s one thing you’ll need just before walking down the aisle, it’s an energy boost to prime you for the nerves, all those photos and attention aplenty. Which is why the Energy Surge treatment, including an Indian head massage, plus a back, neck, shoulder and foot massage, could be just the pick, stimulating circulation, calming and rejuvenating you.
Contact: 011 807 6281 or skinsense.co.za
Durban
The Spa at The Oyster Box
The setting: Unparalleled ocean views, grandiose architecture and impeccable service are all alluring reasons to make The Spa at The Oyster Box your spot to decompress.
Treatment to try: Bridal Beauty Essentials (R2 650 for 300 mins)
This superb package promises to give you all the relaxation and finishing touches you could require before your big day, including a full body exfoliation and back, neck and shoulder massage; a specialised skincare facial with a choice of another facial treatment added on, or your hair and makeup done; a deluxe manicure and pedicure – either a gelish or French option; and a delicious spa lunch. What more could you ask for?
Contact:031 514 5000, [email protected] or redcarnationhotels.com
Crowhurst Health and Beauty Spa
The setting: Lush, green gardens and clusters of towering trees accompanied by its homely feel make Crowhurst Health and Beauty Spa a tranquil haven from the stresses of wedding prep.
Treatment to try: Aromatherapy Full Body Massage (R450 for 90 mins)
Relax and forget any big-day drama with the help of aromatic essential oils and a de-stressing massage that’ll ease achey muscles and calm your mind. And if you want to share the soothing experience with your partner, book the couples’ room.
Contact:031 767 5078 or crowhurstspa.com
Tweet us your favourite spas and treatments to @GLAMOUR_sa with #GLAMWedding to share.
Sarah Browning, 24, is the managing editor of GLAMOUR. She moved to SA from London three years ago and lives in Cape Town. In this #GLAMWedding Wedding Blog, Sarah’s sharing her wedding-planning journey with you. Join the conversation! Tweet your thoughts to Sarah via @GLAMOUR_sa using #GLAMWedding.
Follow Sarah on Twitter: @sarahmbrowning
Find out more about the #GLAMWedding blog here!
