Читать книгу Australia's Best Spas - Amanda Jane Clark - Страница 9

RARE PLANTS THAT CAN ONLY SURVIVE IN HIGHLY OXYGENATED ENVIRONMENTS THRIVE HERE

Daintree Eco Lodge and Spa, Far North Queensland

With the world's oldest living rainforest providing a dramatic and spiritually charged backdrop, complete with natural special effects such as soft, filtered daylight and pure, oxygen-rich air, your spa experience here begins long before you peruse the treatment menu.

At the heart of this environmental miracle known as the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area-where jungle clad mountains really do touch the blue coral sea-is a 12-hectare property whose spa is designed to complement activities enjoyed in the region. A massage after bushwalking, a body wrap to hydrate and soothe after a day on the reef, or a tropical rain Vichy shower on the timber wetbed carved in the shape of an ylang ylang leaf, are offered by therapists. Although you'd be hard pressed to remain stressed for long in this soothing environment, this spa also does a lot of work in stress management.

Working closely with the local Aboriginal community, the Ku Ku Yalangi tribe, the lodge offers cultural and educational interaction through art, history, music and guided walks. Particularly special is a visit to a secluded waterfall, a sacred site where Aboriginal women were known to gather medicinal plants and bathe. Rare plants that can only survive in highly oxygenated environments thrive here. Not surprisingly, the site is said to be rich in healing energy. The signature treatment at this award-winning spa is called Walbui-Walbul, meaning "butterfly." An experience of contrasting sensations, it begins with a warm oil and desert salt exfoliation, followed by a red ochre mud wrap and Milkanga Kaday head treatment, finishing with the healing waters of the rain showers and a soothing massage to unite your spirit with the blue skies. They liken this treatment to the brilliant transition of a caterpillar into a beautiful butterfly. Silken skin, environment-induced euphoria and perhaps the whisper of an ancient mystery are also guaranteed.

Guest suites, resembling tree houses, are nestled within the rainforest canopy.

The environment and its restorative qualities are the inspiration behind Daintree Eco Lodge. Exotically remote but easily accessible, this family owned and managed lodge provides 15 luxurious and private tree houses, some with balcony spa baths. The symphonic chorus of generally unseen but heard frogs, birds and insects renders pan-flute COs redundant. The rain, the forest and its everyday natural life were the inspiration for the spa's design, and water, which flows from the waterfall to the lodge and spa, is harnessed for drinking and for spa treatments.

To complement the spa experience, classes are offered in Ki meditation and yoga. Ki is derived from the principles of Japanese Aikido. It focuses on achieving harmony and direct physical energy with the mind, through a combination of basic breathing exercises, correct posture, true relaxation and meditation. Casual visitors and guests alike are invited to try it out.

With its rainforest location, the Daintree Eco Lodge and Spa promises to be the ultimate Far North Queensland restorative and indulgent experience. Exotic tropical flowers and fruit thrive in the gardens surrounding this tropical guesthouse and spa, located approximately 90 minutes' drive north of Cairns International Airport.

A soothing massage in a tropical rainforest is pure bliss.

AN AURA OF ABUNDANCE, SERENITY AND FERTILITY PERMEATES THIS SPA

Healing Waters Spa, Silky Oaks Lodge, Far North Queensland

Cocooned within the vibrant, lush Daintree Rainforest, a landscape that resonates with ancient ceremonies and whispers of sacred healings, this spa takes the concept of "communing with nature" to a special level.

The spiritually-charged energies of the rainforest were revered by the Aborigines of the Mossman Gorge region, who gathered medicinal plants here and bathed in the river which flows below Silky Oaks Lodge. Inspired by traditional, indigenous wisdom and the life-renewing qualities of the Mossman River, known as "the Healing Waters" by local Aboriginal people, an aura of abundance, serenity and fertility permeates this spa.

Nesting in the treetops above the river and connected by a maze of boardwalks and pathways through the enveloping vegetation, the magical beauty and natural wonders surrounding the tree house guest suites and spa hardly seem real, more like the creation of special effects artists.

Healing Waters Spa is located an hour north of Cairns in a timber pavilion at the end of a fragrant pathway. The primary architect here is nature, brilliantly enhanced by a stunningly designed space through which guests and staff flow as naturally as a gentle breeze through the rainforest. Vast walls of glass fill every room with fresh air and natural light, filtered through a geometric tapestry of palms, ferns and flowers. The earthy tones of natural wood, stone floors and chocolate or magenta-coloured lounges, contrasts stunningly with the myriad shades of green foliage, visible at every turn. In a spacious, slate-floored couples suite, an over-sized shower rose cascades water from the ceiling into a sunken bath, just a few feet from the rainforest. For guest's aural pleasure, a well amplified, natural symphony is kindly provided by thousands of insects, birds, animals and rustling leaves.

Treatments using Li'Tya products, based on native berries, herbs and plants, draw on the knowledge of Aboriginal people to nurture and heal, while treatments using Sodashi products, based on aromatic plant essences, focus on achieving a holistic wellness. Naturally, all treatments have been designed to bestow pleasure and relaxation, while leaving your skin feeling enriched, energised and glowing with health.

Australian spa products good enough to eat are used here.

The surrounding forest and light are almost a design element in this spa, ensuring that all who enter are soaked in nature's healing calm.

Simple touches add to the delights provided here, from fresh iced teas to the energy cleansing quartz crystals and miniature wooden coolamons (a basin-shaped dish traditionally made and used by Aborigines) adorning each treatment table. The tropical atmosphere is relaxed, warm and open, while the environment is exotic and exciting. It's the kind of place you will love to revisit and remember when you need a little escape from reality-i'm back there right now.

Guests are pampered with Vichy showers, de-stressing baths, facials and detox treatments, using all-natural products from the all-Australian brands Li'Tya and Sodashi.

ESPA'S NURTURING AND GENEROUS AMBIENCE IS OBVIOUS IN THE LITTLE THINGS

Espa, The Reef House, Palm Cove, Queensland

Discreetly obscured by abundant tropical gardens and gigantic melaleuca gums, the seaside village of Palm Cove in North Queensland emanates a relaxed yet sophisticated ambience. It's as if everyone feels slightly smug about their good fortune to be here. Only a 30-minute drive north of Cairns, Palm Cove is the domain of a growing number of hotel and resort spas, each nurturing an individual character and offering exquisite experiences in beauty, health and wellbeing. With a handful of glamorous spas scattered along the beachfront, the locally bestowed title of "Spa Capital of Australia" fits well.

Thanks to some thoughtful planning, no building here is taller than the coconut palms lining the long, white sandy beach. This ensures that the soul-inspiring view you'll discover from the jetty opposite Espa, is of rainforest-covered mountains sweeping down to meet the sparkling aqua of the Coral Sea.

Framed by fuchsia, origami-like flowers of bougainvillea vines and fragrant frangipani trees, Espa's home is a whitewashed, timber-shuttered building beside a cascading waterfall in the grounds of the Reef House Hotel. Once the home of a brigadier, the hotel's design and service, along with touches such as candlelit corridors and an honour bar adorned with primitive art, reflect the romance of a bygone era.

The casual elegance of the languidly exotic spa could be described as "plantation style meets shabby chic."

Surrounded by tropical blooms, verdant foliage and gentle waterfalls, Espa is the perfect Eden where many a tired soul finds rest and healing.

Enriched by 10 years' experience in creating upmarket apes worldwide, the Espa team now offers design consultancy services that aim at enhancing the environment as part of the total spa experience.

Terracotta-tiled floors, carved wooden candle mounts, white timber furniture and the spicy aroma of Espa's tropical blend of essential oils permeate the five spacious treatment rooms and relaxation areas.

Espa features Li'Tya spa products, which integrate precious qualities of the Australian earth with its native plants and spirit. Treatments offered combine the wisdom of Aboriginal spirituality and healing methods with aromatherapy and herbalist principles to produce powerful experiences for body and soul. Espa's signature treatment, the Mala Mayi (clan food-Arnhem Land) is a luscious full body, rejuvenation affair. An individually designed treatment, guests choose between reharmonising, rejuvenating or detoxifying blends of clay, salt and oil, which are then used to cleanse, exfoliate, massage and energise.

Treatments begin with a soothing footbath and the indigenous ritual of "smudging," where bark and flowers are burnt (the effect is like incense) to cleanse a space of negative energies and centre a person's spirit into the room. Espa's nurturing and generous ambience is obvious in the little things, like a pot of fresh tea and an invitation to relax in a peaceful lounge area, post pampering. It all contributes to a deeply satisfying spa experience.

In January 2004, Espa was recognised as one of the "Best 100 Spas of the World" by Harpers and Queens London.

LEAVE YOUR SHOES AND YOUR CARES AT THE DOOR OF THIS SANCTUARY AND ALLOW YOUR SENSES FREE REIN

The Spa of Peace and Plenty, Dunk Island, Queensland

Beyond the coconut palms that fringe this lush tropical island, hidden within a tranquil rainforest garden, an airy, Balinese-style timber pavilion is waiting to warmly welcome you. A footbridge leads the way to the doors of this Paradise, which is also the place to leave your cares and allow your senses free rein.

A nurturing energy infuses every aspect of this thoughtfully operated spa, thanks to a caring, professional staff. While your feet are gently washed, sit back with a glass of fresh strawberry, lime and orange-infused water and drink in the tranquility. The spa's unique signature scent, an exotic combination of lime, blood orange patchouli, rose, ylang ylang jasmine and geranium fills the air, leading your senses on an enriching journey of renewal.

Dunk Island can be reached by light aircraft (45 minutes) or coach and launch (2 hours) from Cairns International Airport. The original inhabitants of Dunk Island, the Djiru Aboriginal tribe, named it Coonanglebah-the isle of peace and plenty, a moniker that still fits. The fertile environment provides the fruit and flowers found in the spa while the ocean's presence is reflected in many of the delights on the spa menu. An inspired range of treatments specially designed for the tropics is available, including the Mermaid's Song, an exotic body polish which leaves your skin softened to perfection. A crushed pearl peel is first used to polish the body before it is deeply relaxed in an oil and Dead Sea salt-infused bath. A fragrant toning mist is then applied to the body and a moisturising milk massaged into the skin, giving it a radiant glow. The treats continue afterwards, with a refreshing sorbet served in the meditation lounge to all guests, who are then invited to linger longer in one of the many inviting relaxation nooks.

The Ayurvedic treatment Shirodhara can induce a calm, blissful state of serenity and expanded relaxation.

This spa's modern and organic design features many spaces dedicated to reflection and relaxation.

This spa was founded on the philosophy of helping people feel fabulous, wherever they are in their lives. As the original spa director, Luisa Anderson, said, "Our treatments are wonderful to give, magical to receive and deeply healing. We also hope they provide an exquisite transforming experience."

Much about Dunk Island complements the post-spa state of mind, which in my experience meant being so relaxed I could barely walk or talk. Fortunately there are plenty of divine spots to do nothing more than contemplate the view in bliss and oblivion, while someone brings you delicious things to nibble and sip. This is the perfect place to enjoy a generous slice of spa lifestyle.

Stone, wood, leaf, flower, water—The Spa of Peace and Plenty knows that the best things in life are the simple ones. Flowers and herbs used in treatments are grown on the island. Relax with someone you love.

THIS RESORT AND SPA ENVIRONMENT IS LAID BACK IN THE BEST AUSTRALIAN SENSE-WARM, RELAXED AND DOWN-TO-EARTH

The Sun Spa, Hyatt Regency Coolum, Queensland

Designed as a luxury destination spa in the late 1980s, this grand dame of Australian resort spas continues to lead the way into unchartered spa territory. Recent expansion has created a visually thrilling spa filled with many unusual features, such as colour therapy lights which change the colour of a room.

Located about ninety minutes north of Brisbane Airport and only half an hour from the trendy resort town of Noosa, the Sun Spa has 19 treatment rooms and optional spa suites (booking one is a must). A place of sun-dappled walls and glowing skylights, spa suites feature baths in secluded courtyards overlooked by native trees, while the sight and sound of falling water is ever present.

Set in 150 hectares of Queensland rainforest and bushland and facing miles of deserted ocean beach, this picturesque resort is lauded for its great service, excellent conference facilities and fantastic childcare options. The Sun Spa's "adults only" facilities, spread over 8,000 square metres, include a 25-metre heated outdoor lap pool, aquasize pool, gymnasium, aerobics and yoga studio, squash courts and hair and beauty salon. The resort also has an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, bicycles, bushwalking tracks and nine swimming pools.

Treatments are naturally inspired by the sun. Essential oils used during body treatments and massages combine with the sun's daily phases, for example the invigorating Sun Rise blend combines lemon, grapefruit, orange, lime and basil oils, while Sun Day is a reflective blend of eucalyptus, lavender, niaouli, tea tree and peppermint.

Sun Spa lifestyle services include personal training, fitness checks, swimming or golf lessons and daily physical classes such as aerobics, yoga, belly dancing or tai chi.

Laid-back, kid-friendly and with the Queensland sun overhead, the Hyatt Regency Coolum has something to offer guests big and small.

SPACE, TIME AND PRIVACY WORK TOGETHER HERE TO SOOTHE AND RELAX GUESTS

The Spa and Total Living Centre, Couran Cove

Resort, South Stradbroke Island, Queensland

Couran Cove is a resort for the new century: an unspoiled, environmentally sensitive five-star luxury retreat without the stuffiness. A short boat ride away from Queensland's Gold Coast, Couran Cove has established itself on an island that has every type of Australian bushland (except desert) represented within its boundaries.

The resort combines wonderful natural playgrounds, like 20 kilometres of shell-covered surf beach, mature native bushland and tropical rainforest, with activities from rock-climbing to hydrocycling to Olympic-standard athletic facilities.

The Spa building is recognisably Queensland, incorporating corrugated iron, timber, batten sunshades and painted weather-board. Inside, fresh air and natural light predominate. The high-angled ceilings, large sun decks, polished floorboards and plantation louvre panels contribute to the beach holiday atmosphere. As part of the island's Total Living Centre, the aim of which is to help you "live better longer," the spa offers treatments and massages, naturopathic and lifestyle consultations, yoga and tai chi classes and three-or five-day resident lifestyle programmes.

A blissful hydrotherapy treatment can be experienced in the open, tiled flotation pool. Another spa specialty is a full body exfoliation and massage in the steam room, followed by a detoxifying thalassotherapy treatment in the hydrotherapy bath. Two waterside massage huts opposite the main spa have floor-to-ceiling blinds that open, so it seems there is nothing between you and nature.

The resort's founder, the former Australian Olympian Ron Clarke, has succeeded in his aim of bringing people and nature together in a relaxed family environment. The extent to which the resort goes in its commitment to adopt the motto "as nature would have it" is astounding, and includes worm farms, solar power and televisions that tell you how much energy your unit has used.

Pedal or foot power is the best way to explore Couran Cove's 161 hectares and to enjoy the huge range of sporting and leisure activities. Participate in as much or as little as you choose and when the day is done, a selection of restaurants offer delicious spa cuisine or other higher-calorie options. The choice is yours. Relax and enjoy.

Suspended above a tidal lagoon, close to the resort's harbourside epicentre, the well-equipped spa is modern and smart in design and opertaion.

THE DOME RETREAT'S PHILOSOPHY IS BASED ON AYURVEDA, AN ANCIENT METHOD OF HEALING PRACTISED THROUGHOUT INDIA FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS

The Dome Retreat, Marriott Hotel, Brisbane

Agentle atmosphere welcomes guests as they open the front door of this inner-city sanctuary. Peaceful music, hushed voices and calm staff in earth-coloured, natural-fibre uniforms can have the worries of the world slipping from your shoulders faster than you can say "replenish me."

The spa's creator, Meaghan South, wanted to provide a place where people could "escape for a day that's pure" and leave feeling rejuvenated, revitalised and renewed. The Dome Retreat's philosophy is based on Ayurveda, an ancient method of healing practised throughout India for thousands of years. Emphasizing preventative and healing therapies, along with various methods of purification and rejuvenation, Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance, harmonise and nurture the body and soul.

Attentive, individual nurturing and pampering is high on the agenda at The Dome Retreat and the experienced therapists are aware of the importance of touch and the fact that many people don't get enough of it.

Frangipani, other tropical blooms and Southeast Asian furniture are hallmarks of this spa. Six attractive and well-equipped treatment or massage rooms and two wet rooms are decorated with an eclectic mix of Buddhist relics and Indian artefacts collected by Meaghan on her travels.

Situated on the fourth floor of the five-star Marriott Hotel, The Dome Retreat's relaxation lounge and balcony overlooks the Brisbane River. Weather permitting, tall wooden doors are thrown open, allowing sunshine and fresh air to warm your toes and fill your lungs as you relax on the comfy cane lounges sipping herbal tea.

The nourishing organic products used are made from essential flower and plant essences and bestow the potent benefits of aromatherapy.

Besides offering a wide range of face and body treatments, hydrotherapy baths, Vichy showers and massages, The Dome Retreat encourages and supports clients to achieve health and wellbeing goals. Naturopath and lifestyle consultations, coaching or fitness assessments, yoga, macro-biotic and astrological guidance can be arranged.

Guests are encouraged to linger at the Retreat before and after treatments. The hotel sauna and pool are open to spa visitors and there are many pleasant settings for a healthy spa cuisine lunch.

The decor is colourful and upbeat and the therapists are hand picked for their skill and experience.

'WELCOME TO OUR WORLD OF PARADISE'

Paradise Spa and Bath House, Surfers Paradise, Queensland

Queensland's Gold Coast is home to many exciting theme park worlds-Sea World, Movie World and now a spa which could become known as Spa World. A true spa in that a dazzling variety of water therapies are available, Paradise Spa is also fun, in a great Surfers Paradise kind of way. You can even leave with a spray-on tan and blow-dry to rival any local.

Located in downtown Surfers Paradise, one of the first things you notice is the dramatic lighting. Opulent purple surfaces reflect a slowly changing, rainbow-coloured glow, the light and colour contributing to the celebratory atmosphere of this below-ground spa.

Treatments offered in the eleven culturally themed therapy rooms touch on a combination of exotic cultures and include Thai massage, Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi, Chinese Tui-Na, Indian Ayurvedic, Japanese Shiatsu, reflexology and Middle Eastern massage. It's no surpriSE; that the menu also offers an eight hour treatment of ultimate indulgence called "Around the world in a day."

Guests begin their journey through Paradise with a brief full body exfoliation. This prepares the skin to reap the benefits of the hydrotherapy treatments. Within a spacious unisex area the hot ginseng pool bestows a revitalizing and regulating effect, while the non-chlorinated (ozone) "spirit" pool contains 400 strategically placed water massage jets and several submerged "spa lounges."

Male and female domains each have a sauna, hot salt bath, cold plunge pool, steam and exfoliation rooms and a mosaic-tiled Rasul steam temple where guests are exfoliated with a cinnamon-vanilla body scrub and painted with a chakra mud while inhaling herb-infused steam. A cleansing warm rain which falls from the starlit ceiling completes this heavenly experience. This spa may be quirky, but it was impossible to wipe the smile off my face in this little piece of paradise.

Water therapies are an integral component of this spa.

SPACE, TIME AND PRIVACY WORK TOGETHER HERE TO SOOTHE AND RELAX GUESTS

Azabu, Byron Bay, New South Wales

The ancient forest of native hoop pines and rainforest surrounding the Azabu guesthouse and spa contributes to this property's serene and spiritual atmosphere. Towering over the five interconnected suites like the steeple of a cathedral, the trees provide an aromatic backdrop for restful contemplation. Positioned in the foothills behind Byron Bay on the north coast of New South Wales, where alternative lifestyles are considered mainstream, Azabu is a boutique luxury retreat with a lot of style. Azabu's hosts believe people today want and need more bliss in their lives and will do their best to provide it. Space, time and privacy work together here to soothe and relax guests.

The guest suites feature polished timber floors and a wall of wooden shuttered windows that fold back to invite the outside forest in. Sunken spa baths jut into the trees to emulate outdoor bathing and a lagoon-like, heated swimming pool and jacuzzi further encourage guests to release themselves to the sensual pleasures of water.

Elevated walkways lead to the spa treatment room and entertainment areas where the furnishings and decor are in an exotic, Asian style. The central building's curved walls in mulberry and earth impart an organic aura, and look as if they might uncurl and slide off into the forest. The loud, rhythmic croak of resident frogs is somnolent, and if there were really such a thing as fairies at the end of the garden you would probably find them here.

Open to visitors and houseguests, Azabu's day spa offers a balanced menu of face and body treatments, massages and treatment packages. Products using plant and flower essences are based on ancient techniques of skincare combined with modern technology.

The guest suites at Azabu open into peaceful wilderness, Nature is ever present in Azabu's treatment rooms

Azabu's heated pool is like a secluded forest swimming hole.

Nature is ever present in the treatment room, seen through a glass wall facing the trees, and contributes to the room's peaceful ambience.

An aura of healing energy pervades this spiritually charged region, where Aboriginal elders once gathered regularly. Legend has it that the area around Byron Bay was too sacred a place for indigenous tribes to live permanently; instead the tribes considered it an important ceremonial site and meeting place. A natural habitat for vast tea tree forests, the brown waters of tea tree infused lagoons are now used for therapeutic bathing by the locals. Whale-watching, bush-walking and surfing in the national parks and sunworshipping at Australia's most easterly point are other attractions this area offers. The closest airports to Byron Bay are Ballina Airport (30 minutes' drive) and Coolangatta Airport (55 minutes' drive). Shuttle buses and coaches are available.

The many facets of spa life in this spiritually charged region, known for its vast tracts of tea tree forests.

ELYSIA IS A CHRYSALIS LIKE NO OTHER, A SECLUDED PARADISE OF OPULENT LUXURY, NURTURING GUIDANCE, MOUTH-WATERING MEALS AND SENSATIONAL SPA TREATMENTS

The Golden Door Health Retreat-Elysia, Hunter Valley, New South Wales

The Golden Door Health Retreat-Elysia is something of a butterfly maker-no one leaves unchanged by their experiences here. Whether your wings have fallen off, no longer fit or are in need of a good spring-clean, Elysia is a chrysalis like no other, a secluded paradise of opulent luxury, nurturing guidance, mouth-watering meals and sensational spa treatments.

Surrounded by picturesque vineyards, patchwork valleys and distant mountain ranges, Elysia is like a modern citadel perched high above the marauding temptations and bad habits of the "real world." Totally stylish, hip and pleasing in every way, from the architecture and interior design to the investment art collection, cloud-like beds and sparkling gym, Elysia exudes good vibrations and elicits an "isn't this great and aren't we lucky to be here" energy from guests.

Concentric spiral walkways lead through a sea of lavender to the retreat's highest point, the Meditation Hill. From here, a fountain of water begins its journey through the many synergistic parts of Elysia, passing through the spa buildings, gardens and central lodge, threading them together with a life-giving force. Simultaneously soothing and invigorating, this symbolic river of life dances swiftly over river boulders in some places and is smooth flowing and quiet in others, all the while renewing, reviving and cleansing.

With 26 dry and wet treatment rooms, wellness centre and indoor pool, you're sure to leave the spa a stronger, fitter and energised person. At Elysia, guests will discover what it feels like to experience wellness, balance and vitality.

The tasty, low-fat spa cuisine makes healthy eating at Elysia an easy task.

The first world-class, purpose-built health retreat in Australia and the latest property in the expanding Golden Door Spa and Health Retreat group, Elysia is committed to reshaping our definition of good health. The team achieves this by enabling guests to discover what it feels like to experience wellness, balance and vitality. It's all a matter of choosing and learning the right exercise, nutrition, stress management and relaxation. The beauty of Elysia is that you don't have to worry about a thing. Elysia's comprehensive assortment of professional practitioners excel at making anything you've previously found difficult to do-be it giving up smoking or losing weight-easy, manageable and very enjoyable.

Elysia's spa is a sanctuary of pleasure. The largest of its kind in Australia, the spa features 26 wet and dry rooms, with many unique treatments offered. One of these is the Watsu, a form of aquatic body-work with origins in Zen Shiatsu. A gentle treatment bestowing a delightful sensation of total weightlessness and seaweed-like flexibility, the Watsu can assist with chronic and acute pain, balance body energies, increase circulation and create a deep sense of relaxation through its gliding and flowing movements.

A multitude of activities and equipment are available to guests, including a 25-metre indoor lap pool, pilates studio, tennis courts, mountain bikes and wellness centre, educational seminars, cooking classes, yoga and tai chi. Guests can choose between an independent stay (minimum two days) or the well-known Golden Door programme. The programme is available as a five-or seven-day option and has more guidance and structure than an independent stay.

All packages include accommodation, gourmet spa cuisine, full use of all facilities, a diverse range of fitness, health, education and relaxation activities, health assessment and spa treatments.

At Elysia you will be given everything you need to relax, unwind, renew, restore, invigorate, energise, enhance, explore, replenish, refresh and heal-everything you need to emerge from this special place, leaner, fitter and ready to conquer the world.

To be massaged by Elysia's trained therapists, or be wrapped in the cocoon of warm water in the spa's hydrotherapy baths—this is part of the butterfly-making process.

The resort's communal relaxation lounge is designed to restore quiet and calm to the mind and soul. For those who shy away from the sun, there is always the option of exercise classes conducted in the comfort of the gym. as well as the indoor pool.

IN THIS ELEGANT WORLD OF RELAXATION AND BEAUTY, ANY OR EVERY PART OF THE BODY CAN BE RENEWED

Spa Chakra, Woolloomooloo, Sydney

Sleek, chic and fashionable, Spa Chakra offers five-star delivery of over 60 treatments to balance and nurture yourself in a spectacular waterfront location. As you pull up outside the groovy W Hotel at the wharf in the Sydney city suburb of Woolloomooloo, an Armani-clad attendant greets you and valet parks your car. Along with a foot bath for new clients and a 15-minute consultation with a naturopath, these complimentary extras reflect Spa Chakra's dedication to ensuring your visit is stress-free and memorable.

Spa Chakra's modern interiors, minimalist style and illuminated marble and glass surfaces create a stylish, serene atmosphere. In this elegant world of relaxation and beauty, any or every part of the body can be renewed.

As their name suggests, Spa Chakra subscribes to the chakra belief system: in order to be "well" and "whole, " a person must address all aspects of their body holistically-mentally, physically and spiritually. Chakras are referred to in many of the world's oldest healthcare practices and religions, and are believed to be the seven spinning wheels of energy and light aligned along a person's spine. Each chakra corresponds to certain components of a person's physical, emotional and spiritual being. Spa Chakra believes that almost all physical ailments have some connection to emotional, mental or spiritual issues, and have designed a range of treatments with this philosophy in mind.

Sydney's beautiful harbour and trendy Woolloomooloo wharf area is a stunning backdrop to the spa

A detailed health questionnaire helps therapists design a treatment best suited to your needs and provides practical advice for achieving and maintaining great health and fitness.

Spa Chakra's elegant world of relaxation and beauty aims to help you rediscover balance and wellbeing.

Australia's only medi-spa, Spa Chakra provides comprehensive medical and wellness care in an environment that integrates spa services with conventional and complementary therapies and treatments. There are twelve treatment rooms for massage, beauty, water treatments and health practitioner consultants and two large private function rooms for special events. Tailor-made programmes can be designed for large or small groups and health retreats for three, five or seven days are also available.

A short walk from the NSW Art Gallery, Botanic Gardens, Opera House and Sydney's Central Business District, Spa Chakra and the W Hotel's waterfront location are also perfect for sightseeing, shopping and dining.

AN AMBIENCE OF SOLITUDE AND PEACE ALLOW THE OUTSIDE WORLD TO SLIP FROM SIGHT AND MIND

The Spa and Fitness Centre, Four Seasons Hotel, Sydney

Stress is costing the business community bill ions of dollars in skills loss and replacement each year as people succumb to the physical and mental effects of stress-related illness. Consequently, the corporate market is having a dramatic effect on the spread of spas. City spas in Australia report an increase in executives booking regular massages, companies bulk-buying spa gift certificates and conference organisers who prefer to book venues with spa facilities.

Located in the heart of Sydney's central business district and a short stroll from many of Sydney's major tourist attractions like the Art Gallery, Opera House and historic Rocks area, this spa is popular with locals and visitors alike. The thoughtful ability to balance the needs of busy executives and holidaymakers is evident on the spa menu where packages like The Executive Express and The Stress Buster are found alongside Seduction of the Senses and Island Indulgence.

Moss-green marble and slate, cedar, polished chrome and frosted glass are used throughout. Eight treatment rooms double as massage or wet rooms and the largest contains a double jacuzzi, combined steam and shower room and twin treatment tables. Comfortable changing rooms are fitted with a "suit mate" that dries swimsuits in five seconds.

Besides hotel guests, the spa is open to casual visitors. A range of 15-and 30-minute express treatments, like the de-stress scalp massage, express facial or neck and shoulder massage, are perfect for those in need of time out. Clients are encouraged to fully utilise the steam rooms and saunas.

The signature treatment here is very special. The intoxicating journey through the four seasons begins with brushing the body with tea tree oil to prepare the skin for further delights. Warm oil is drizzled, then massaged over the back using the nurturing Hawaiian Wave technique from toe to fingertips, followed by Reiki Chakra balancing and penetrating hot stone massage for deep relaxation. A potent Japanese silk protein treatment is then applied to the face, promising total renewal, and rejuvenation is completed with an arm and hand massage and mask.

The Four Seasons' Spa offers a sanctuary in the city, where an ambience of solitude and peace allow the outside world to recede from sight and mind.

AN EXPERIENCE IN TOUCH AND EMOTIONAL HEALING THAT NO ONE IN THIS LIFETIME SHOULD NEGLECT

Gillian Adams Salon and Spa, Turramurra, Sydney

Ihope heaven is like this. If it isn't, we are fortunate that an angel named Gillian Adams has created a heavenly sanctuary for mere mortals. As the creator herself puts it, "A visit to Gillian Adams Salon and Spa should be an experience in touch and emotional healing that no one in this lifetime should neglect."