* This article first appeared here in Forbes Travel Guide
Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront hardly needs any introduction, nor does the prestigious One&Only Hotel, nestled between the canals, harbour-side shopping, and all with unparalleled views of the city’s iconic Table Mountain.
The five-star One&Only Resort attracts visitors from around the world, and with the recent refurbishment of the hotel’s spa, there is even more incentive to visit. From the hotel’s grand lobby, the canal-side walkway guides you over a bridge into the ‘wellness island’, where a sparkling new spa awaits. The complete makeover was thanks to the dazzling designs of the London-based (but South African-led) Muza Lab – who were also responsible for the hotel’s magnificent refurbishment.
Taking inspiration from the Southern Cross constellation, the One&Only Spa’s soothing tones of blue and grey, and twinkling star-like lights have been crafted to create a rather heavenly journey. From the copper constellation-inspired light installations, multi-textured walls, and star-strewn ceilings above the vitality pools, the celestial theme is sensitively and elegantly carried throughout.
My Highlights
- In addition to the array of bespoke treatments, each spa visit begins and ends in the thermal suites. Separate for men and women, these include aroma-steam rooms, saunas, heated vitality pools, and cooling ice fountains.
- Proudly on display in the indoor relaxation area, the refreshment bar offers a selection of healthy and indulgent drinks and snacks. Included is the One & Only Cap Classique Brut – the house bubbly made in partnership with Simonsig Wine Estate, the very first producer of the Champagne-style tipple in South Africa.
- The products used range from the UK-based ESPA to the revered French brand Biologique Recherche, where care is provided after personalised derma-cosmetic diagnosis.
- For guests looking to entrust their hands and feet to the world’s best, the revered podiatrists Bastien Gonzalez serve treatments that have been described by Vogue as ‘The Rolls-Royce of manicures and pedicures.’
- And with the gentle sounds of the island ripples of the Waterfront canals, the spa’s relaxation areas and pools offer post-treatment lounging unlike anything else in Cape Town. Why not extend the pampering by ordering a tasty meal and enjoying it under the towering presence of Table Mountain?
Treatments
- The once-a-month offered ‘Full Moon Menu’ is inspired by the beauty and mystery of the cosmos, and like the lunar cycle, is designed with a monthly celebration of soothing and renewal. The cosmic journey includes a sound bowl ceremony at dusk, followed by foot bath ceremonies, breath work, chakra balancing, and meditation. Guests can choose from three bespoke rituals: including the ‘Empowerment Ritual’, ‘Harmonising Ritual’, and ‘Stardust Sole Ritual’.
- As a regular, my favourite treatment is the ‘Essence of Cape Town’, a signature African treatment using indigenous plants. It begins with an invigorating sea salt scrub, followed by a seaweed wrap, then by a stimulating scalp massage and a warmed seashell massage.
- Continuing the thread of authentic local immersion, the One&Only African Journey Experience uses the scents of sweet orange and baobab oil to set the tone, followed by a Rooibos and rock salt scrub. The massage component includes the African Rungu Stick on areas of tension, and then it’s back to the Rooibos for a tea ceremony to complete the journey. The result? A peaceful state with a nourished, sun-kissed glow.
